Average Rent in Carter County, MO↑ Rents rising 3.4% YoY🔻 4th cheapest in MO

Carter County, MO has rental prices ranging from $615/month to $1,242/month in 2025, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $628/month — 55% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $45,083/year, spending $628/month on a 1-bedroom represents 17% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.

How Carter County Compares

With an average 2-bedroom rent of $824/month, Carter County ranks #91 most expensive of the 94 cities tracked in Missouri — more affordable than 97% of all US cities in our data.

The Carter County Rental Market

The Carter County, MO area has a population of about 5,269 and 36% of households renting rather than owning. That is close to the US average renter share of ~34%.

Rent Trends

2-bedroom rents in Carter County, MO have risen by $27/month (3.4%) over the past year, from $797 to $824. This modest growth is consistent with broader inflationary trends seen across US rental markets.

Affordability

To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Carter County, MO without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $25,120. The local median household income of $45,083 exceeds that threshold by $19,963, making Carter County relatively accessible compared to local wages.

Economy & Jobs

Carter County, MO has an unemployment rate of 5.1%, 1.2 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 Carter County, MO Affordable?

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

Rent or Buy in Carter County?

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

Living in Carter County

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