Average Rent in Scott County, MO↑ Rents rising 10.4% YoY🔺 15th priciest in MO
HUD FY2027 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 37,967
Market Overview
Scott County, MO has rental prices ranging from $757/month to $1,372/month in 2027, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $785/month — 44% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $58,847/year, spending $785/month on a 1-bedroom represents 16% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.
How Scott County Compares
With an average 2-bedroom rent of $1,027/month, Scott County ranks #15 most expensive of the 94 cities tracked in Missouri — pricier than 52% of all US cities in our data.
The Scott County Rental Market
The Scott County, MO area has a population of about 37,967 and 31% of households renting rather than owning. That is close to the US average renter share of ~34%.
Rent Trends
2-bedroom rents in Scott County, MO have risen by $97/month (10.4%) over the past year, from $930 to $1,027. This rate of increase is significant and reflects strong rental demand and limited housing supply in the local market.
Affordability
To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Scott County, MO without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $31,400. The local median household income of $58,847 exceeds that threshold by $27,447, making Scott County relatively accessible compared to local wages.
Economy & Jobs
Scott County, MO has an unemployment rate of 4.2%, 0.3 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 FY2027Is Scott 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 | $908 | $913 | $1,113 | $1,539 | — |
| Cooper County | $695 | $735 | $962 | $1,278 | — |
| Howard County | $689 | $757 | $990 | $1,180 | — |
| Columbia | $749 | $959 | $1,076 | $1,459 | — |
| Joplin | $904 | $910 | $1,153 | $1,501 | — |
| Jefferson City | $731 | $735 | $962 | $1,332 | — |
Rent or Buy in Scott County?
Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.
Should I Rent or Buy?
Break-even analysis using real Scott County data
Buying breaks even after 4 years — worth it if you stay 4+ years.
Living in Scott County
Cost of living, job market, crime rates, and moving cost estimates.
Moving Cost Estimator
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Frequently Asked Questions
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Compare rent & home prices by neighborhood
💵Rent Affordability in Scott CountySalary needed to afford rent here
🗺️All Cities in MOSee how Scott County ranks statewide
⚖️Compare Scott CountySide-by-side rent & cost of living with any city
📋MO Tenant RightsDeposit limits, eviction laws & renters protections