Average Rent in Jefferson City, MO↑ Rents rising 8.1% YoY🔺 13th priciest in MO
HUD FY2025 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 150,147
Market Overview
Jefferson City, MO has rental prices ranging from $677/month to $1,322/month in 2025, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $681/month — 51% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $72,425/year, spending $681/month on a 1-bedroom represents 11% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.
How Jefferson City Compares
With an average 2-bedroom rent of $891/month, Jefferson City ranks #13 most expensive of the 94 cities tracked in Missouri — more affordable than 78% of all US cities in our data.
The Jefferson City Rental Market
The Jefferson City, MO area has a population of about 150,147 and 28% 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 Jefferson City, MO have risen by $67/month (8.1%) over the past year, from $824 to $891. 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 Jefferson City, MO without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $27,240. The local median household income of $72,425 exceeds that threshold by $45,185, making Jefferson City relatively accessible compared to local wages.
Rent vs. Buy
The median home value in Jefferson City, MO is $279,348, giving a price-to-rent ratio of 26.1. With a break-even horizon of approximately 26 years, renting is likely the more financially prudent option for most residents unless they plan to stay long-term.
Fair Market Rents
HUD FY2025Is Jefferson City, 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 | — |
| St. Francois County | $634 | $652 | $856 | $1,133 | — |
Rent or Buy in Jefferson City?
Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.
Should I Rent or Buy?
Break-even analysis using real Jefferson City data
Buying breaks even after 2 years — worth it if you stay 2+ years.
Mortgage Calculator
Estimate monthly payment for $279,348 home at 7% rate
Living in Jefferson City
Cost of living, job market, crime rates, and moving cost estimates.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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⚖️Rent vs Buy in Jefferson CityIs it cheaper to rent or buy here?
💵Rent Affordability in Jefferson CitySalary needed to afford rent here
🗺️All Cities in MOSee how Jefferson City ranks statewide
⚖️Compare Jefferson CitySide-by-side rent & cost of living with any city
📋MO Tenant RightsDeposit limits, eviction laws & renters protections