Kansas City, MO [Average Rent Price History]
Kansas City’s rental market has seen notable shifts in recent years, reflecting broader economic and housing trends. This analysis offers a comprehensive look at how average rent prices have evolved over the past year, providing you with a clear perspective on the market’s trajectory.
By understanding these patterns, you can make more informed decisions as you navigate your apartment search in one of the nation’s most dynamic cities.
Note: All of the rental data included here comes from our internal database of rent estimates. We offer rental estimates at the city, state, and national level available for download.
Average Rent Prices in Kansas City, MO [2024]
The average rent in Kansas City, Missouri is $1,202 per month, which is approximately 22% lower than the national average. The average rent for different types of apartments in Kansas City is:
- Studio: $1,016 per month
- One-bedroom: $1,198 per month
- Two-bedroom: $1,771 per month
- Three-bedroom: $3,009 per month
As of December 2024, rental prices in Kansas City are showing a mix of trends. Studio apartments now average $1,016, up slightly from last year, while one-bedroom units are $1,198, reflecting steady growth. Two-bedroom apartments have risen to $1,771, but larger three-bedroom units dropped to $3,009, making them more affordable for renters seeking extra space.
Smaller units are renting out faster than larger ones. Studios, for example, spent about 119 days on the market, while three-bedroom apartments stayed available for longer at 122 days. If you’re looking for a smaller apartment, acting sooner might be wise, while larger units offer more time and potential for negotiation.
| Month | Bed | Bath | Avg Square Feet | Average Price (% Y/Y)* | Average Days on Market (% Y/Y)* |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024-07-01 | Studio | 1 | 484 sqft | $1017 (4.52%) | 116 (30.33%) |
| 2024-07-01 | 1 | 1 | 743 sqft | $1203 (-0.41%) | 92 (37.31%) |
| 2024-07-01 | 2 | 1 | 907 sqft | $1167 (2.63%) | 46 (0%) |
| 2024-07-01 | 2 | 2 | 1142 sqft | $1718 (5.59%) | 118 (22.91%) |
| 2024-07-01 | 3 | 1 | 1063 sqft | $1286 (1.25%) | 33 (50%) |
| 2024-07-01 | 3 | 2 | 1369 sqft | $1974 (-3.14%) | 63 (-17.1%) |
| 2024-08-01 | Studio | 1 | 524 sqft | $1028 (3.73%) | 128 (150.98%) |
| 2024-08-01 | 1 | 1 | 730 sqft | $1200 (-0.41%) | 78 (16.41%) |
| 2024-08-01 | 1 | 2 | 1037 sqft | $1975 (-12.33%) | 106 (241.93%) |
| 2024-08-01 | 2 | 1 | 890 sqft | $1149 (2.04%) | 43 (-17.3%) |
When Is the Best Time to Rent an Apartment in Kansas City?
Historically, rents in Kansas City have been lowest in September, and recent trends confirm this pattern. Studio prices dropped by 10.71% year-over-year in September 2024, making it the most affordable month for smaller units. Availability tends to peak in August, as average days on market rose significantly for larger units like three-bedrooms, which averaged 112 days during that month.
Choosing the best time to rent depends on your priorities. Late summer offers a wider selection of available units, while early fall continues to provide the most competitive prices, especially for smaller apartments like studios.
What Salary Do You Need to Live Comfortably in Kansas City?
At a median rate of $1,132 for a one-bedroom apartment, you would need to earn around $45,280 annually to ensure your rent remains affordable (under 30% of your total income). For a two-bedroom apartment at $1,336, you would need to earn closer to $53,440 annually.
Average Rent in Kansas City, MO By Neighborhood
| Neighborhood | Avg Square Feet | Average Rent | Average Days on Market |
|---|---|---|---|
| Blackburn | 657 sqft | $1275 (0.71%) | 164 (993.33%) |
| Broadway Gillham | 555 sqft | $1035 (-15.37%) | 159 (1.92%) |
| Central Hyde Park | 602 sqft | $1008 (5%) | 166 (66%) |
| Central Industrial District | 909 sqft | $1630 (9.76%) | 41 (-70.5%) |
| Crestview | 730 sqft | $869 (-12.75%) | 17 (-63.04%) |
| Crossroads | 1095 sqft | $1811 (-17.49%) | 91 (-40.52%) |
| Crown Center | 803 sqft | $1658 (29.53%) | 153 (-11.04%) |
| Downtown Lee's Summit | 699 sqft | $1414 (57.98%) | 80 (-33.88%) |
| Downtown Overland Park | 753 sqft | $1452 (44.47%) | 96 (-38.06%) |
| Grandview | 699 sqft | $893 (0.22%) | 63 (75%) |
Most Popular Apartment Communities in Kansas City
Among the most popular apartment communities in Kansas City, Eastwood Crossings stands out with the highest level of interest from apartment hunters, followed closely by The Falls in Mission, Canyon Creek, and Aspen Landing Apartments. Other Kansas City favorites, such as The Newbern and Flashcube Luxury Apartments, also attracted substantial attention, offering renters a variety of highly rated options across different neighborhoods and price points.
| Property Name | City | Interest |
|---|---|---|
| Eastwood Crossings | Kansas City | 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥 |
| The Falls | Mission | 🔥🔥🔥🔥 |
| Canyon Creek | Kansas City | 🔥🔥🔥🔥 |
| Aspen Landing Apartments | Kansas City | 🔥🔥🔥🔥 |
| The Newbern | Kansas City | 🔥🔥🔥 |
| Flashcube Luxury Apartments | Kansas City | 🔥🔥🔥 |
| Coach House Apartments | Kansas City | 🔥🔥🔥 |
| Suntree Apartments | Kansas City | 🔥🔥🔥 |
| Cornerstone | Independence | 🔥🔥 |
| Five Twenty East Armour | Kansas City | 🔥🔥 |
Kansas City’s Rental Market
Explore expert insights into the latest trends and key metrics in Kansas City’s rental market.
Is Kansas City a Good Rental Market?
Kansas City is a promising rental market, with rent prices rising steadily but still offering affordable options across different apartment sizes. Demand is high, as shown by apartments spending less time on the market, especially for popular layouts, making it a competitive area for renters looking to secure a spot.
Is It Hard to Get an Apartment in Kansas City?
It can be challenging to secure an apartment in Kansas City, as many units are renting quickly, especially in popular sizes. Studios, for example, have averaged just 96 days on the market in recent months, and larger three-bedroom units are rented within only 35 days, signaling strong demand across the board. Given the short market times and rising rental rates, prospective renters may need to act quickly to find the best options available.
What Is the Price to Rent Ratio in Kansas City?
In Kansas City, with a price-to-rent ratio of 15.4, it’s generally more affordable to rent than buy, as purchasing a home requires a significantly larger financial commitment. This makes renting ideal for those seeking flexibility or who want to avoid the higher upfront and ongoing costs associated with homeownership.
How Much Is Rent in Cities Near Kansas City?
Rent prices in nearby cities often provide useful context when evaluating housing options.
Here, we compare average rents in cities around Kansas City, helping you gauge affordability and explore alternatives.
| Week | City | Bedrooms | Average Price (% W/W) | Avg Square Feet |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024-12-29 | Belton | 1 | $1366 (0.29%) | 702 sqft |
| 2024-12-29 | Belton | 2 | $1288 (-0.3%) | 1025 sqft |
| 2024-12-29 | Belton | 3 | $1506 (0%) | 1173 sqft |
| 2024-12-29 | Blue Springs | 1 | $1216 (0.74%) | 703 sqft |
| 2024-12-29 | Blue Springs | 2 | $1655 (0.54%) | 1158 sqft |
| 2024-12-29 | Gladstone | 1 | $960 (-2.04%) | 671 sqft |
| 2024-12-29 | Gladstone | 2 | $1415 (0.85%) | 981 sqft |
| 2024-12-29 | Grain Valley | 1 | $1180 (-2.47%) | 831 sqft |
| 2024-12-29 | Grain Valley | 2 | $1401 (2.71%) | 1029 sqft |
| 2024-12-29 | Grandview | 1 | $966 (0.72%) | 715 sqft |
Rent prices in cities near Kansas City vary widely. More affordable options can be found in Gladstone with one-bedroom units averaging $960 and Grandview at $966. Higher-end markets like Leawood and Overland Park have one-bedroom averages of $1,716 and $1,405, reflecting their appeal and proximity to urban amenities.
Cities like Lee’s Summit and Shawnee have higher three-bedroom rents. The average is $2,182 while Shawnee is at $1,971, highlighting the premium on spacious rentals in suburban areas near Kansas City.
Looking for an Apartment in Kansas City?
Kansas City and its surrounding areas offer a diverse rental market with options to fit various lifestyles and budgets. Whether you're seeking the vibrancy of downtown or the tranquility of suburban living, finding the perfect fit can be challenging with so many choices.
Take our personalized quiz designed to match you with options tailored to your preferences. You'll be sure to simplify your search and uncover the ideal apartment for your needs. Discover your dream apartment today and make Kansas City feel like home.
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