Average Rent in Benton County, MO↑ Rents rising 7.3% YoY

Benton County, MO has rental prices ranging from $654/month to $1,230/month in 2025, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $668/month — 52% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $52,200/year, spending $668/month on a 1-bedroom represents 15% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.

How Benton County Compares

With an average 2-bedroom rent of $877/month, Benton County ranks #19 most expensive of the 94 cities tracked in Missouri — more affordable than 82% of all US cities in our data.

The Benton County Rental Market

The Benton County, MO area has a population of about 19,887 and 16% 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 Benton County, MO have risen by $60/month (7.3%) over the past year, from $817 to $877. This modest growth is consistent with broader inflationary trends seen across US rental markets.

Affordability

To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Benton County, MO without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $26,720. The local median household income of $52,200 exceeds that threshold by $25,480, making Benton County relatively accessible compared to local wages.

Economy & Jobs

Benton County, MO has an unemployment rate of 4.7%, 0.8 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.

Is Benton County, MO Affordable?

Income needed to rent or buy, price history, and how this city compares to nearby metros.

Rent or Buy in Benton County?

Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.

Living in Benton County

Cost of living, job market, crime rates, and moving cost estimates.