Cost of Living in Mountain grove, MO
Mountain grove cost of living index: 63.33 (below the US average). Median home price: $235,000.
Updated 2026 • Based on 3 local zip codes
📍 Some data sourced from nearby metro area
% below the national average
Housing
Data from 3 zip codes
Housing costs in Mountain grove, MO based on real market data from 3 local zip codes.
With a housing index of 76.37, Mountain grove, MO presents a relatively affordable living option compared to many urban areas. The median home price stands at 235000.0, making it attainable for homebuyers. Renting options are reasonable too, with the average rent for a 2-bedroom apartment at 750.0 and for a 2-bedroom house at . This balance between home prices and rental costs could indicate stable long-term growth potential, ideal for both renters and buyers looking for value, alongside a strong sense of community.
Last updated: January 2026
Utilities
The cost of utilities such as electricity, natural gas, and other services can significantly impact the overall cost of living.
Living in Mountain grove, MO could entail variable utility costs. Electricity costs sit at $14.64, while natural gas is priced at $23.25 per Thousand Cubic Feet. Expect to budget about $234.0 monthly for other services like water and garbage.
Cost Breakdown by Category
Local Income & Economy in Mountain grove, MO
How far does your money go in Mountain grove? Understanding the relationship between income and cost of living is key to evaluating affordability.
How We Calculate Adjusted Purchasing Power in Mountain grove
The adjusted purchasing power shows what a Mountain grove, MO household income is actually worth after accounting for local prices. We calculate it using the formula: Purchasing Power = Median Income ÷ Cost of Living Index × 100
For Mountain grove, that's $38,103 ÷ 63.33 × 100 = $60,166. This means a household earning the median income in Mountain grove has the equivalent buying power of $60,166 in a city where the cost of living index equals the national baseline of 100.
Mountain grove is well below the national cost of living average at 63.33, making it one of the more affordable places to live in MO. The median income of $38,103 has an effective purchasing power of $60,166 — a meaningful boost that allows residents to save more, invest in real estate, or enjoy a higher standard of living compared to expensive metro areas.
Combined with a low poverty rate of 15% and healthy job market (4.5% unemployment), Mountain grove offers strong value for families, investors, and anyone looking to relocate to a city where income goes further.
💡 Purchasing power is calculated by dividing the local median household income by the cost of living index and multiplying by 100. A result higher than the nominal income means your money goes further; a lower result means local prices erode your earnings. The US baseline cost of living index is 100.
Pros & Cons of Living in Mountain grove
Pros
- • Beautiful natural scenery
- • Friendly community atmosphere
- • Low crime rates
- • Access to outdoor activities
- • Family-friendly environment
- • Supportive local businesses
- • Close-knit neighborhoods
- • Quiet, small-town feel
- • Low cost of living
- • Rich local history
Cons
- • Healthcare options are minimal
- • Limited nightlife options
- • Public transport is lacking
- • Seasonal weather extremes
- • Isolation from larger cities
- • Economic challenges exist
- • Limited cultural activities
- • Diversity issues present
- • Schools have mixed reviews
- • Fewer job opportunities
💡City Insights
Mountain grove scores 7/10 for affordability, 5/10 for safety, and 5/10 for family-friendliness — an good overall profile. Its strongest aspect is affordability, making it particularly suitable for budget-conscious buyers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Mountain grove, MO? ▼
The cost of living in Mountain grove, MO is 37% lower than the national average, with a cost of living index of 63 (where 100 represents the U.S. average). Housing typically accounts for the largest portion of living expenses. See full cost of living breakdown →
How much does it cost to buy or rent a home in Mountain grove, MO? ▼
In Mountain grove, MO, The median home price is $235,000. requiring approximately $93,214 annual income to afford. Average rent is $750/month (requiring ~$30,000/year income). The local median household income is $38,103, making homeownership challenging for typical residents. Explore Mountain grove real estate data →
Is Mountain grove, MO a safe place to live? ▼
Mountain grove, MO is average in terms of safety, with crime rates near the national average. Safety varies significantly by neighborhood. View detailed Mountain grove crime statistics →
What salary do you need to live comfortably in Mountain grove, MO? ▼
To live comfortably in Mountain grove, MO and afford a median-priced home of $235,000, you would typically need a household income of $58,750 to $73,438 per year. The local median household income is $38,103. Renting requires approximately $30,000/year (at $750/month). See full affordability analysis →
What are the best neighborhoods in Mountain grove, MO? ▼
The best neighborhoods in Mountain grove, MO depend on your priorities. For families, look for areas near top-rated schools with lower crime rates. For affordability, neighborhoods throughout the city offer good value since the median home price of $235,000 is below the national average.
How are the taxes in Mountain grove, MO? ▼
Tax rates in Mountain grove, MO include state and local components. The cost of living index of 63 suggests a lower overall tax and expense burden cost environment compared to the national average. View detailed Mountain grove tax information →
How does Mountain grove, MO compare to nearby cities? ▼
Mountain grove, MO offers a more affordable alternative to nearby communities. With a cost of living index of 63, median home prices of $235,000, and a crime rate of 0 per 1,000 residents, you can compare these metrics side-by-side. Use the compare feature to evaluate specific cities.
What is the weather like in Mountain grove, MO? ▼
Weather in Mountain grove, MO varies by season. Climate data varies by season. View detailed Mountain grove climate & environment data →
What factors affect cost of living in Mountain grove, MO? ▼
The main factors affecting cost of living in Mountain grove, MO include housing costs (the biggest factor), utilities, groceries, transportation, and healthcare. Local taxes and the overall economic conditions also play a role.
Housing Costs by Zip Code
Detailed housing data across 3 zip codes in Mountain grove, MO.
| Zip Code | Median Home Price | Avg Rent | 2BR Rent | For Sale | For Rent |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 65638 | $235,000 | — | — | 10 | — |
| 65711 | $229,000 | $970/mo | $750/mo | 101 | 5 |
| 65768 | $549,900 | — | — | 7 | — |
Explore More About Mountain grove, MO
📅 Last Updated: January 2026
Sources: U.S. Census Bureau (ACS), Bureau of Labor Statistics, Council for Community and Economic Research (C2ER), Zillow, Redfin