West Plains, MO

Very Low · 53

Missouri · Population 12,341 · Updated March 2026

$762
Median Rent / Month
$39,897
Median Income
$158,700
Median Home Value
$766
Owner Costs / Month

Affordability

How far your income goes in West Plains

22.9%
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

$9,144
Annual Rent
$1,975
State Income Tax
$1,476
Property Tax (est.)

Cost of Living Overview

West Plains is significantly cheaper than the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and families. With a cost index of 53 (where 100 equals the national median), West Plains residents can expect to pay median rent of $762/month while earning a median household income of $39,897/year.

The median home value in West Plains, MO is $158,700, with typical monthly owner costs around $766 including mortgage, insurance, and taxes. The median rent-to-income ratio of 22.9% 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 West Plains.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about living costs in West Plains

What is the cost of living in West Plains, MO?
The cost of living index in West Plains, MO is 53 (US average = 100). Median monthly rent is $762, median household income is $39,897/year, and the median home value is $158,700.
Is West Plains, MO affordable?
Yes, West Plains is more affordable than the national average with a cost index of 53. The rent-to-income ratio is 22.9%—below the 30%% threshold considered affordable by HUD.
What is the average rent in West Plains, MO?
The median gross rent in West Plains, MO is $762 per month according to the US Census Bureau ACS 2023 data. Annual rent costs approximately $9,144.
What is the median household income in West Plains?
The median household income in West Plains, MO is $39,897 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%.