Safe Rate Local

Cost of Living in Laclede County

Is it better to rent or buy in Laclede County? Explore median costs, utility estimates, and run the numbers on your own budget to see how far your income goes.

← Back to Laclede County Hub

Rent vs. Buy Affordability Calculator

Adjust the sliders to match your scenario. We recommend keeping total housing costs under 40% of your gross income.

$52,906
$870/mo

Median in area: $870

$171,939

Median in area: $171,939

$34,388

If you Rent

🔑
$1,059 /mo
Base Rent$870
Est. Utilities$189
% of Income24.0%
Pre-tax Residual$3,350

If you Buy

🏠
$1,322 /mo
P&I (7.119%)$926
Taxes & Ins$207
Est. Utilities$189
% of Income30.0%
Pre-tax Residual$3,087

Compare Nearby Areas

See how Laclede County stacks up against neighboring areas.

Cost of Living FAQs

Is it cheaper to rent or buy in Laclede County?

Based on median housing data, renting is currently more affordable on a monthly basis in Laclede County. The estimated all-in monthly cost for renting is $1,059, while owning a median-priced home with a 20% down payment is roughly $1,322 per month (a difference of $263).

How much do utilities cost in Laclede County?

The average monthly utility cost (electricity and natural gas) for a typical home in Laclede County is approximately $189. This estimate uses local utility rate schedules combined with median energy consumption profiles.

What is a good salary to live comfortably in Laclede County?

To comfortably afford the median rent and utilities in Laclede County without exceeding the recommended 30% housing-to-income threshold, a household should earn a gross salary of approximately $42,360 per year.