Average Rent in Pulaski County, MO↑ Rents rising 2.7% YoY🔺 3rd priciest in MO
HUD FY2025 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 53,850
Market Overview
Pulaski County, MO has rental prices ranging from $760/month to $1,660/month in 2025, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $765/month — 45% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $66,435/year, spending $765/month on a 1-bedroom represents 14% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.
How Pulaski County Compares
With an average 2-bedroom rent of $1,004/month, Pulaski County ranks #3 most expensive of the 94 cities tracked in Missouri — pricier than 65% of all US cities in our data.
The Pulaski County Rental Market
The Pulaski County, MO area has a population of about 53,850 and 41% of households renting rather than owning. That renter share runs above the US average of ~34%, pointing to a competitive rental market where vacancies clear quickly and rents are less negotiable.
Rent Trends
2-bedroom rents in Pulaski County, MO have risen by $26/month (2.7%) over the past year, from $978 to $1,004. This modest growth is consistent with broader inflationary trends seen across US rental markets.
Affordability
To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Pulaski County, MO without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $30,600. The local median household income of $66,435 exceeds that threshold by $35,835, making Pulaski County relatively accessible compared to local wages.
Economy & Jobs
Pulaski County, MO has an unemployment rate of 5.3%, 1.4 percentage points above the national average of 3.9%. A higher unemployment rate can moderate rental demand over time, which may help keep rent growth in check compared to tighter job markets.
Fair Market Rents
HUD FY2025Is Pulaski County, MO Affordable?
Income needed to rent or buy, price history, and how this city compares to nearby metros.
Affordability Index(30% income rule)
Nearby Cities in MOlargest metros in the state
| City | Studio | 1BR | 2BR | 3BR | Home Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Springfield | $790 | $795 | $998 | $1,372 | — |
| Cooper County | $565 | $628 | $824 | $1,027 | — |
| Howard County | $625 | $695 | $912 | $1,099 | — |
| Columbia | $691 | $862 | $1,007 | $1,360 | — |
| Joplin | $830 | $835 | $1,036 | $1,327 | — |
| Jefferson City | $677 | $681 | $891 | $1,249 | — |
Rent or Buy in Pulaski County?
Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.
Should I Rent or Buy?
Break-even analysis using real Pulaski County data
Buying breaks even after 4 years — worth it if you stay 4+ years.
Living in Pulaski County
Cost of living, job market, crime rates, and moving cost estimates.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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💵Rent Affordability in Pulaski CountySalary needed to afford rent here
🗺️All Cities in MOSee how Pulaski County ranks statewide
⚖️Compare Pulaski CountySide-by-side rent & cost of living with any city
📋MO Tenant RightsDeposit limits, eviction laws & renters protections