St. Joseph, MO

Very Low · 56

Missouri · Population 71,542 · Updated March 2026

$884
Median Rent / Month
$55,578
Median Income
$144,200
Median Home Value
$876
Owner Costs / Month

Affordability

How far your income goes in St. Joseph

19.1%
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

$10,608
Annual Rent
$2,751
State Income Tax
$1,341
Property Tax (est.)

Cost of Living Overview

St. Joseph 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), St. Joseph residents can expect to pay median rent of $884/month while earning a median household income of $55,578/year.

The median home value in St. Joseph, MO is $144,200, with typical monthly owner costs around $876 including mortgage, insurance, and taxes. The median rent-to-income ratio of 19.1% 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 St. Joseph.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about living costs in St. Joseph

What is the cost of living in St. Joseph, MO?
The cost of living index in St. Joseph, MO is 56 (US average = 100). Median monthly rent is $884, median household income is $55,578/year, and the median home value is $144,200.
Is St. Joseph, MO affordable?
Yes, St. Joseph is more affordable than the national average with a cost index of 56. The rent-to-income ratio is 19.1%—below the 30%% threshold considered affordable by HUD.
What is the average rent in St. Joseph, MO?
The median gross rent in St. Joseph, MO is $884 per month according to the US Census Bureau ACS 2023 data. Annual rent costs approximately $10,608.
What is the median household income in St. Joseph?
The median household income in St. Joseph, MO is $55,578 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%.