Cape Girardeau, MO

Very Low · 60

Missouri · Population 40,047 · Updated March 2026

$855
Median Rent / Month
$54,870
Median Income
$186,100
Median Home Value
$887
Owner Costs / Month

Affordability

How far your income goes in Cape Girardeau

18.7%
Rent-to-Income Ratio
Affordable
Rent takes less than 25% of median income — considered affordable by HUD standards.

Tax Burden in Missouri

State-level tax rates that affect your costs

4.95%
Income Tax (Top Rate)
4.225%
Sales Tax
0.93%
Property Tax Rate

Estimated Annual Costs

$10,260
Annual Rent
$2,716
State Income Tax
$1,731
Property Tax (est.)

Cost of Living Overview

Cape Girardeau is significantly cheaper than the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and families. With a cost index of 60 (where 100 equals the national median), Cape Girardeau residents can expect to pay median rent of $855/month while earning a median household income of $54,870/year.

The median home value in Cape Girardeau, MO is $186,100, with typical monthly owner costs around $887 including mortgage, insurance, and taxes. The median rent-to-income ratio of 18.7% means housing is relatively affordable here — well below the 30% threshold that HUD considers cost-burdened.

Missouri has a moderate income tax rate of 4.95%. Combined with a 4.225% sales tax rate and 0.93% effective property tax rate, the overall tax environment is a factor in the total cost of living in Cape Girardeau.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about living costs in Cape Girardeau

What is the cost of living in Cape Girardeau, MO?
The cost of living index in Cape Girardeau, MO is 60 (US average = 100). Median monthly rent is $855, median household income is $54,870/year, and the median home value is $186,100.
Is Cape Girardeau, MO affordable?
Yes, Cape Girardeau is more affordable than the national average with a cost index of 60. The rent-to-income ratio is 18.7%—below the 30%% threshold considered affordable by HUD.
What is the average rent in Cape Girardeau, MO?
The median gross rent in Cape Girardeau, MO is $855 per month according to the US Census Bureau ACS 2023 data. Annual rent costs approximately $10,260.
What is the median household income in Cape Girardeau?
The median household income in Cape Girardeau, MO is $54,870 per year. This compares to the national median of approximately $80,000.
What are the taxes like in Missouri?
Missouri has a top income tax rate of 4.95%, a sales tax of 4.225%, and an effective property tax rate of 0.93%.