Average Rent in Vernon County, MO↑ Rents rising 3.7% YoY🔺 11th priciest in MO
HUD FY2025 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 19,713
Market Overview
Vernon County, MO has rental prices ranging from $669/month to $1,352/month in 2025, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $684/month — 51% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $54,519/year, spending $684/month on a 1-bedroom represents 15% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.
How Vernon County Compares
With an average 2-bedroom rent of $897/month, Vernon County ranks #11 most expensive of the 94 cities tracked in Missouri — more affordable than 77% of all US cities in our data.
The Vernon County Rental Market
The Vernon County, MO area has a population of about 19,713 and 27% of households renting rather than owning. That renter share runs below the US average of ~34%, a more homeowner-heavy market where rental inventory can be limited.
Rent Trends
2-bedroom rents in Vernon County, MO have risen by $32/month (3.7%) over the past year, from $865 to $897. This modest growth is consistent with broader inflationary trends seen across US rental markets.
Affordability
To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Vernon County, MO without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $27,360. The local median household income of $54,519 exceeds that threshold by $27,159, making Vernon County relatively accessible compared to local wages.
Economy & Jobs
Vernon 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 FY2025Is Vernon 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 Vernon County?
Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.
Should I Rent or Buy?
Break-even analysis using real Vernon County data
Renting appears to be the better financial choice for this scenario.
Living in Vernon 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 Vernon CountySalary needed to afford rent here
🗺️All Cities in MOSee how Vernon County ranks statewide
⚖️Compare Vernon CountySide-by-side rent & cost of living with any city
📋MO Tenant RightsDeposit limits, eviction laws & renters protections