Cost of Living in Rolla, MO
Population 20,144 · Missouri · Data vintage 2023
(100 = US avg)
Rolla's median household income of $42,518 is a meaningful share below the national figure, which shapes most of the downstream economic indicators — from housing affordability to the share of residents living below the poverty line (24% here).
Geographically, Rolla lies roughly 75 miles southeast of the nearest major metro, Columbia. Median home values run roughly 34% lower than Columbia's $268,000.
Cost Overview
Scale: 100 = US national average. Green < 90, Red > 110.
About the Cost of Living in Rolla
The median home value in Rolla is $177,400 — 42% below the national median of $305,000. Median rent runs $790/month, 40% lower than the national median of $1,314/month. The median household income of $42,518/year is 43% lower than the US median of $74,580. The local unemployment rate is 5.4%, above the national average of 4.8%. Missouri's top state income tax rate is 5.0% and the combined sales tax is 8.4%. Overall, Rolla has a cost of living index of 59 versus the US average of 100, meaning it is 41% less expensive.
🏠 Housing
HUD Fair Market Rents by Bedroom
💰 Estimated Monthly Budget
Estimates based on median data and national averages. Actual costs vary.
🛒 Food & Groceries
National BLS average prices (2023). Local prices may vary.
🚗 Transportation
Commute Mode
⚡ Utilities
📋 Taxes
💼 Income & Employment
🎓 Education
👥 Demographics
🏫 Schools
NCES CCD 2019 — public school district data
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Rolla, MO?
Rolla has a cost index of 59 (100 = national average). It is 41% below the national average.
What is average rent in Rolla, MO?
The median gross rent in Rolla is $790 per month based on 2023 Census data.
What is the average home price in Rolla?
The median home value in Rolla is $177,400 according to Zillow and Census data.
What is the median income in Rolla?
The median household income in Rolla is $42,518 per year (2023 ACS 5-year estimates).
What is the sales tax in Rolla, MO?
The combined state and local sales tax rate in Rolla is 8.4%. The Missouri state income tax top rate is 5.0%.
Is Rolla, MO affordable?
Yes, Rolla is generally considered affordable, with a cost of living index of 59 — about 41% below the US national average of 100.
Rolla at a Glance
- Population
- 20,144
- Median Income
- $42,518
- Home Value
- $177,400
- Median Rent
- $790/mo
- Unemployment
- 5.4%
- Sales Tax
- 8.4%
Explore county-level cost of living data
Missouri Rankings
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