Missouri Rent Prices 2026: Average $1,288/mo
Find fair market rent prices for 2 major metro areas in Missouri. The average 2-bedroom rent across the state is $1,288/mo.
Quick links for Missouri renters:
Major Cities in Missouri
Sorted by 2-bedroom rent price (highest to lowest)
| Rank | City | 2BR Rent |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Kansas City, MO Studio: $1,095 | 1BR: $1,197 | 3BR: $1,769 | $1,358/mo2BR |
| 2 | St. Louis, MO Studio: $955 | 1BR: $995 | 3BR: $1,568 | $1,218/mo2BR |
Cheapest Cities in Missouri
Find the most affordable cities to rent in Missouri. Starting from $1,218/mo.
Most Expensive Missouri Cities
See the priciest rental markets in Missouri. Up to $1,358/mo.
Missouri Rent Trends
Analyze rent trends and market outlook for Missouri.
Explore Missouri Rent Data
Browse detailed rent prices for cities across Missouri. Each city page includes neighborhood breakdowns, rent trends, and local market insights.
Can You Afford to Rent in Missouri?
See the income needed to comfortably afford rent in Missouri cities based on the 30% rule.
View All Affordability Guides →Rent vs. Buy in Missouri Cities
Compare the cost of renting vs. buying a home in major Missouri metro areas.
View All Rent vs. Buy Guides →Missouri City Rent Comparison
Average 2-bedroom rent by city
Market Conditions Gauge
Missouri rental market analysis
Supply matches demand, stable conditions for renters
What This Means for Renters
- *Take time to compare options without rushing
- *Negotiate move-in specials or minor rent reductions
- *Stable market conditions favor fair dealings
Market conditions are calculated from supply/demand balance, price trends, and affordability metrics. Conditions can vary by neighborhood.
Top Cities in Missouri
Rent prices by metropolitan area
Click on a state to see details. Color indicates rent level relative to national range.
Missouri Rental Market Overview
The fair market rent (FMR) data for Missouri is published annually by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). These figures represent the 40th percentile of gross rents for standard quality rental housing in each metro area.
Missouri has 2 major metropolitan areas tracked in our database. The most expensive city for renters is Kansas City, MO with an average 2-bedroom rent of $1,358/mo, while the most affordable is St. Louis, MO at $1,218/mo.
What Affects Rent Prices in Missouri?
- Location: Proximity to employment centers and urban amenities significantly impacts rent prices across Missouri metros.
- Local Economy: Job growth and industry presence drive rental demand. Strong employment markets typically have higher rents.
- Housing Supply: Areas with new construction tend to have more rental options and potentially competitive pricing.
- Schools: Quality school districts command premium rents, especially for family-sized apartments.
- Transportation: Access to highways and public transit affects neighborhood desirability and pricing.
Frequently Asked Questions About Missouri Rent
What is the average rent in Missouri?
The average rent in Missouri is $1,288 per month for a 2-bedroom apartment based on 2026 HUD Fair Market Rent data. Prices range from $1,218 in St. Louis to $1,358 in Kansas City.
What is the cheapest city to rent in Missouri?
St. Louis, MO offers the most affordable rent among major Missouri metros at $1,218/month for a 2-bedroom apartment. Studios in St. Louis average $955/month.
What is the most expensive city to rent in Missouri?
Kansas City, MO has the highest rents in Missouri at $1,358/month for a 2-bedroom apartment. This is $70 above the state average.
How much do I need to earn to rent in Missouri?
To comfortably afford the average Missouri 2-bedroom at $1,288/month, you would need an annual income of approximately $51,520 (based on the 30% of income guideline). For the most affordable areas, you would need about $48,720/year.
Is Missouri affordable for renters?
Yes, Missouri is generally affordable for renters compared to national averages. With average 2-bedroom rents at $1,288/month, the state offers good value for many budget-conscious renters.
How Much Rent Varies Across Missouri
Missouri's 2-bedroom rents range from $1,218/mo in St. Louis up to $1,358/mo in Kansas City — a spread of $140/mo, or about 11%. That means choosing the right Missouri city can change your annual housing cost by roughly $1,680. The statewide average for a 2-bedroom is $1,288/mo, so any city below that line is offering above-average value for renters.
Popular Missouri city rent guides:
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Helpful Resources for Missouri Renters
Moving to Missouri? These comprehensive resources help you understand your rights, find assistance programs, and navigate the rental process.