Rolla, MO

Very Low · 56

Missouri · Population 20,144 · Updated March 2026

$790
Median Rent / Month
$42,518
Median Income
$177,400
Median Home Value
$778
Owner Costs / Month

Affordability

How far your income goes in Rolla

22.3%
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

$9,480
Annual Rent
$2,105
State Income Tax
$1,650
Property Tax (est.)

Cost of Living Overview

Rolla is significantly cheaper than the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and families. With a cost index of 56 (where 100 equals the national median), Rolla residents can expect to pay median rent of $790/month while earning a median household income of $42,518/year.

The median home value in Rolla, MO is $177,400, with typical monthly owner costs around $778 including mortgage, insurance, and taxes. The median rent-to-income ratio of 22.3% 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 Rolla.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about living costs in Rolla

What is the cost of living in Rolla, MO?
The cost of living index in Rolla, MO is 56 (US average = 100). Median monthly rent is $790, median household income is $42,518/year, and the median home value is $177,400.
Is Rolla, MO affordable?
Yes, Rolla is more affordable than the national average with a cost index of 56. The rent-to-income ratio is 22.3%—below the 30%% threshold considered affordable by HUD.
What is the average rent in Rolla, MO?
The median gross rent in Rolla, MO is $790 per month according to the US Census Bureau ACS 2023 data. Annual rent costs approximately $9,480.
What is the median household income in Rolla?
The median household income in Rolla, MO is $42,518 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%.