Missouri Rent Trends (2026)

Stable

Missouri offers consistent Midwestern value

+3%
Year-over-Year
+18%
5-Year Change
$1,288
Current Avg 2BR
$1,327
Projected 2027

Missouri Market Outlook: Stable

Missouri's rental market has remained stable with moderate growth. Both Kansas City and St. Louis have seen downtown revitalization efforts that have created new housing options and improved urban living.

Expect relatively stable rent prices

Key Factors

  • Cost of Living Index: 89 (below national avg)
  • Housing Index: 76
  • Metro Areas Tracked: 2
  • Rent Range: $1,218 - $1,358

Missouri Rent History & Projections

2021 (Est.)
$1,092
5 years ago
2026 (Current)
$1,288
today
2027 (Proj.)
$1,327
+3%
2031 (Proj.)
$1,493
if trend continues

Note: Projections are estimates based on current trends and may vary based on economic conditions, policy changes, and market dynamics. Past performance does not guarantee future results.

Missouri Cost of Living Breakdown

Well below average across categories

89
Overall Index
76
Housing
100
Utilities
94
Groceries
93
Transportation

Index values: 100 = national average. Below 100 = cheaper than average. Above 100 = more expensive.

Missouri Metro Areas by Rent

Compare rent across 2 Missouri cities

CityStudio1 Bed2 Bed3 Bedvs State Avg
Kansas City, MO$1,095$1,197$1,358$1,769+5%
St. Louis, MO$955$995$1,218$1,568-5%

Tips for Missouri Renters

Build Landlord Relationships

In stable markets, good tenant-landlord relationships can lead to minimal rent increases and better treatment over time.

Plan for Modest Increases

Even in stable markets, expect 2-4% annual increases. Budget accordingly and maintain good payment history for negotiating power.

Consider Alternatives

Missouri's cheapest city (St. Louis) offers 2BR at $1,218/mo vs $1,358/mo in Kansas City.

Factor in Total Costs

Remember that Missouri's cost of living index is 89. Lower rent plus lower overall costs means more purchasing power.