Average Rent in Cooper County, MO↓ Rents falling 16.6% YoY🔻 2nd cheapest in MO
HUD FY2021 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 16,835
Market Overview
Cooper County, MO has rental prices ranging from $471/month to $1,050/month in 2021, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $518/month — 63% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $67,548/year, spending $518/month on a 1-bedroom represents 9% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.
How Cooper County Compares
With an average 2-bedroom rent of $683/month, Cooper County ranks #93 most expensive of the 94 cities tracked in Missouri — more affordable than 100% of all US cities in our data.
The Cooper County Rental Market
The Cooper County, MO area has a population of about 16,835 and 22% 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 Cooper County, MO have fallen by $136/month (16.6%) over the past year, from $819 to $683. This rate of decrease is significant and reflects softening demand or increased inventory in the local market.
Affordability
To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Cooper County, MO without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $20,720. The local median household income of $67,548 exceeds that threshold by $46,828, making Cooper County relatively accessible compared to local wages.
Economy & Jobs
Cooper County, MO has an unemployment rate of 3.8%, 0.1 percentage points below the national average of 3.9%. Strong employment conditions typically sustain rental demand, as workers relocate to the area and local residents maintain stable housing.
Fair Market Rents
HUD FY2021Is Cooper 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 | — |
| 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 | — |
| St. Francois County | $634 | $652 | $856 | $1,133 | — |
Rent or Buy in Cooper County?
Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.
Should I Rent or Buy?
Break-even analysis using real Cooper County data
Renting appears to be the better financial choice for this scenario.
Living in Cooper 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 Cooper CountySalary needed to afford rent here
🗺️All Cities in MOSee how Cooper County ranks statewide
⚖️Compare Cooper CountySide-by-side rent & cost of living with any city
📋MO Tenant RightsDeposit limits, eviction laws & renters protections