Best Places To Buy Rental Property In Missouri For 2025

The best places to buy rental property in Missouri might not be where you’d expect—but that’s exactly what makes this state such an exciting market for new real estate investors. While everyone’s chasing big-name cities with sky-high prices, Missouri quietly offers something a lot more valuable: affordable homes, reliable renters, and room to grow.

Here’s the thing—real estate doesn’t have to be complicated, risky, or out of reach. In fact, Missouri is one of the most beginner-friendly states in the country if you know what to look for. Between booming metros like Kansas City and St. Louis, fast-growing towns like Columbia and Springfield, and lesser-known gems with strong rent-to-price ratios, this state is full of opportunities that most people overlook.

If you’re just starting your investing journey, that’s a good thing. It means you can buy smart, cash flow early, and build your portfolio faster than you could in crowded, overpriced markets. You don’t need years of experience or a huge bankroll—you just need the right strategy and the right market. That’s where we come in. At Real Estate Skills, we teach everyday people how to invest in real estate the smart way—and Missouri is the kind of market we love to guide our students through.

In this article, we’ll break everything down step by step:

• Why Missouri Is One of The Best Places To Buy Rental Property
• Top 15 Best Places To Buy Rental Property In Missouri
• The Best Places To Buy Rental Property In Missouri: FAQ

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Why Missouri Is One of The Best Places To Buy Rental Property

The best places to buy rental property in Missouri aren’t just good on paper—they’re delivering real results for investors right now. Whether you’re looking to generate monthly income, build long-term wealth, or just get your foot in the door, Missouri’s got the kind of real estate market that actually makes those goals possible.

What makes the Missouri rental property market stand out is its balance. Properties are still affordable, rent prices are solid, and investors don’t have to compete with massive hedge funds to land a good deal. If you’re new to investing in Missouri real estate, this combination of lower risk and strong returns is a great place to start.

More importantly, Missouri isn’t a one-size-fits-all state. From college towns and growing suburbs to revitalized urban areas, you’ve got options—each offering its own flavor of opportunity. The Missouri real estate investment market gives you room to test strategies like fix-and-rent, house hacking, or full-on buy-and-hold, all while keeping your initial investment reasonable.

And since many cities here offer a healthy supply of single-family homes, duplexes, and small multifamily properties, new investors can find Missouri rental income properties that fit their budget and goals. Whether you're looking for immediate cash flow or patient appreciation, some of the best places in Missouri for rental properties offer both.

Here’s why investors are paying more attention to Missouri:

• Affordable housing with strong rent-to-price ratios
• High demand in college towns and metro suburbs
• Friendly landlord-tenant laws in most counties

Affordable Housing With Strong Rent-To-Price Ratios

Let’s be honest—some real estate markets just don’t make sense anymore. Home prices are sky-high, rent growth is flat, and breaking even feels like a win. But in Missouri? The math still works.

The median home value across the state is around $247,099, while the average monthly rent is approximately $1,500. That puts Missouri’s rent-to-price ratios well above what you'd find in overpriced coastal markets, giving investors an actual chance to generate positive monthly cash flow.

This kind of affordability is what makes the Missouri rental property market so attractive to new investors. It’s a state where you can still buy a solid property without wiping out your savings—and see consistent returns from day one.

And if you're not sure how to analyze a deal or calculate what makes a property profitable, don’t worry—we teach all of that inside our investing program so you can run the numbers confidently and make smart moves from the start.

Read Also: How To Buy A Rental Property With No Money

High Demand In College Towns & Metro Suburbs

In real estate, demand drives everything—and in Missouri, demand for housing is alive and well. On average, single-family homes in the state spend just 51 days on the market, and with only 3 months of inventory available, supply just isn’t keeping up. That might not sound like much, but here’s what it means for you as an investor: more renters, fewer vacancies, and a strong shot at consistent monthly income.

When buyers get priced out or can't find a home in time, they turn to the rental market. That trend is even stronger in Missouri’s college towns and metro suburbs, where new residents, students, and working professionals are constantly cycling in and out. Cities like Columbia, Springfield, and parts of St. Louis and Kansas City experience some of the most consistent year-round demand—because there’s always someone looking for a place to live.

This is what makes many of the best places in Missouri for rental properties so appealing. You’re not just buying a house—you’re stepping into a market where rental demand already exists. Whether it’s undergrads needing off-campus housing, young professionals relocating for work, or families waiting to buy, the tenant pool in these areas stays deep.

And if you don’t know how to find the right kind of tenant or what makes a rental in these areas perform, that’s exactly what we teach in our investing program—from property selection to tenant screening and everything in between.

Friendly Landlord-Tenant Laws In Most Counties

One of the reasons Missouri continues to attract real estate investors is its relatively investor-friendly rental laws. Compared to states with strict rent control or tenant-first regulations, Missouri takes a more balanced approach—giving landlords the tools they need to protect their property and enforce lease terms when necessary.

For example, Missouri’s eviction process is straightforward, and property owners can typically regain possession within a matter of weeks if a tenant violates the lease. Combine that with reasonable property tax rates—which average around 0.91% statewide—and you’ve got a legal and financial environment that supports long-term investing.

Missouri also offers some helpful programs through the Missouri Housing Development Commission (MHDC), including renovation incentives and financing options for affordable housing. These are especially valuable in some of the best areas in Missouri to buy investment property, where minor upgrades can significantly boost rent and property value.

Add it all up, and it's easy to see why many investors consider Missouri one of the best places to buy rental property in Missouri—especially if you're looking for a state that respects your role as a property owner.

Read Also: Top Landlord-Friendly States 2025: Where to Invest Now

Top 15 Best Places To Buy Rental Property In Missouri

From bustling metro areas to charming small towns, Missouri offers a wide variety of markets that are perfect for real estate investors. Whether you're looking for high rental yields, long-term appreciation, or affordable entry points, the Show-Me State has you covered. The key is knowing where to buy rental property in Missouri based on your budget and investing goals.

The best places to invest in rental property in Missouri include a mix of urban centers like Kansas City and St. Louis, growing suburbs like Lee’s Summit and Wentzville, and hidden gems with rising demand and solid rent-to-price ratios. Each of these markets brings something unique to the table—but they all offer strong potential for income and growth.

Here are the 15 cities you’ll want to keep on your radar as you explore the best places to buy rental property in Missouri in 2025 and beyond:

1. Kansas City, MO
2. St. Louis, MO
3. Springfield, MO
4. Columbia, MO
5. Independence, MO
6. St. Joseph, MO
7. Jefferson City, MO
8. Lee’s Summit, MO
9. Blue Springs, MO
10. O’Fallon, MO
11. Cape Girardeau, MO
12. Branson, MO
13. Raymore, MO
14. Florissant, MO
15. Wentzville, MO

Kansas City, MO

It’s no secret that Kansas City real estate investment continues to gain attention—and for good reason. With a population over 500,000 and a metro area exceeding 2 million, KC offers a healthy mix of job growth, culture, and affordability. Investors love it for its stable rents, active revitalization efforts, and consistent demand across both single-family and multifamily housing.

It also happens to be one of the best cash flow markets in Missouri, thanks to its strong rent-to-price ratios and lower-than-average home values in many neighborhoods. From the up-and-coming East Side to rental-heavy pockets in Midtown and Waldo, Kansas City delivers real cash-on-cash returns for those who buy wisely.

St. Louis, MO

St. Louis is one of those rare markets where investors can find both volume and value. The St. Louis rental property market stretches across dozens of unique neighborhoods, giving you options for every budget and strategy. From North City flips to South County buy-and-holds, there’s room to grow.

With major employers like BJC HealthCare, Boeing, and Anheuser-Busch, rental demand remains steady, especially near universities and hospitals. St. Louis consistently ranks among the best Missouri cities for real estate investing, offering solid rent performance and appreciation potential with the right property and location.

Springfield, MO

Located in the southwest corner of the state, Springfield is often overlooked—but it shouldn’t be. With a low cost of living, strong local economy, and more than 40,000 college students in town, it’s quietly become one of the best cities to buy rental property in Missouri for long-term stability and solid returns.

The Missouri housing market for investors in Springfield is especially appealing to those starting out, with affordable single-family homes and duplexes that still cash flow. With consistent rental demand and a growing population, Springfield offers a smart entry point into real estate investing without the big-city competition.

Columbia, MO

Thanks to its central location and homegrown energy, Columbia has long been one of the best college town rental markets in Missouri. The University of Missouri brings in thousands of students, faculty, and staff every year, fueling rental demand for everything from apartments to single-family homes.

Columbia is also a great choice for investors using a buy and hold real estate in Missouri strategy. Property values have risen steadily, vacancy rates stay low, and tenants often renew year after year. If you're looking for a long-term, low-drama investment in a highly stable market, Columbia checks all the boxes.

Independence, MO

Just outside Kansas City, Independence offers a compelling mix of affordability and rental demand. This city has become a hotspot for new investors exploring Missouri rental property investment opportunities because of its low entry prices and steady tenant base.

With many homes priced under $200,000 and average rents that hold strong, it’s also one of the better spots for finding affordable investment property in Missouri. Independence may not be flashy, but that’s exactly what makes it a reliable place to build a rental portfolio that cash flows right away.

St. Joseph, MO

If you’re looking for one of the best places in Missouri for rental income, St. Joseph deserves a closer look. Located about an hour north of Kansas City, this small city packs a surprising punch when it comes to rental property performance. With a lower cost of entry and steady demand from healthcare workers, educators, and manufacturing employees, investors can often find strong cash flow with less upfront capital.

Vacancy rates tend to be low, and rent prices have held steady even as home values have remained relatively affordable. That balance makes St. Joe one of the more under-the-radar Missouri investment property opportunities—especially for first-time landlords who want predictable returns and a low learning curve. If you're aiming to break into the market with a solid deal, this is one of the best places to buy rental property in Missouri where you can start strong without overspending.

Jefferson City, MO

As the state capital, Jefferson City offers stability that few markets can match. With a large population of government employees and service workers, the rental market here is fueled by reliable, long-term tenants who value affordability and convenience. This makes Jeff City one of the more dependable state capital rental markets in Missouri—perfect for investors who want consistent occupancy.

In terms of value, Jefferson City provides access to quality properties at prices far below what you’ll see in larger metros. That’s why many consider it one of the best areas in Missouri to buy investment property if you're looking for a balance of affordability and tenant demand. If you're trying to figure out the best places to buy rental property in Missouri for long-term growth, don't skip this steady, income-friendly market.

*For in-depth training on real estate investing, Real Estate Skills offers extensive courses to get you ready to make your first investment! Attend our FREE Webinar Training and gain insider knowledge, expert strategies, and essential skills to make the most of every real estate opportunity that comes your way!

Lee’s Summit, MO

Lee’s Summit is a suburban standout just southeast of Kansas City, offering strong schools, safe neighborhoods, and a growing population. It’s the kind of place renters love—especially families and professionals who want access to the city without living in it. For investors, that positions Lee’s Summit as one of the best suburban rental markets in Missouri with high demand and low turnover.

With new developments, parks, and strong public services, the city continues to grow in both size and value. If you’ve been wondering where to buy rental property in Missouri for long-term appreciation and tenant stability, Lee’s Summit belongs on your shortlist. It's not the cheapest market, but it's one of the most dependable—making it a smart move for buy-and-hold investors.

Blue Springs, MO

Just east of Kansas City, Blue Springs offers a strong blend of affordability, safety, and suburban convenience—making it ideal for newer investors who want to avoid big-city chaos while still capturing metro-area demand. With good schools and a growing population, it's no surprise this city is gaining traction as one of the more promising Midwest real estate investment opportunities.

Homes here are still reasonably priced compared to the KC core, and rents remain competitive, which means you can find solid Missouri rental income properties without having to stretch your budget. Whether you're buying your first single-family rental or adding a duplex to your portfolio, Blue Springs is one of the best places to buy rental property in Missouri for dependable returns and long-term growth.

O’Fallon, MO

Located just outside St. Louis, O’Fallon is consistently ranked among the top cities in Missouri for quality of life—and savvy investors are taking notice. With its family-friendly atmosphere, great schools, and safe neighborhoods, O’Fallon has become one of the best suburbs to invest in Missouri, especially for landlords looking for stable tenants and minimal headaches.

The rental demand here is strong, particularly among families who want space, good schools, and a short commute into the city. It’s also one of the top family-friendly rental markets in Missouri, where properties stay occupied and rental rates remain strong year-round. If you’re looking for one of the best places to buy rental property in Missouri that combines quality tenants, appreciation potential, and minimal drama—O’Fallon fits the bill.

Cape Girardeau, MO

Cape Girardeau might not be the first city that comes to mind when people think about investing, but that’s exactly why it stands out. With its location along the Mississippi River, a strong healthcare sector, and a major university anchoring the local economy, Cape is one of the rising rental markets in Missouri that still flies under the radar.

What’s more, the city’s mix of affordability and job growth makes it an ideal choice for buy-and-hold investors looking to get in before the crowd. According to recent Missouri housing market trends, Cape Girardeau is experiencing steady home price appreciation and consistent rent growth—two signs of a market on the upswing. For anyone scouting the best places to buy rental property in Missouri before the competition heats up, this one's worth a closer look.

Branson, MO

Known for its theaters, live entertainment, and tourism, Branson is unlike any other city in the state—and it offers a completely different investment play. As one of the top short-term rental markets in Missouri, Branson is ideal for investors who want to generate strong income from vacationers and seasonal visitors.

There’s no shortage of demand here, especially during peak tourist months when hotels fill up and travelers look for alternative lodging. That makes Branson a prime location for those interested in buying a vacation rental property in Missouri that can bring in high nightly rates and consistent bookings. Just make sure you understand the local regulations and seasonality before diving in. If you get it right, Branson can be one of the most lucrative—and fun—places to buy rental property in Missouri.

Raymore, MO

Located just south of Kansas City, Raymore is one of Missouri’s fastest-growing suburbs—and a city that more investors are starting to notice. It’s safe, clean, and offers a high quality of life, which makes it appealing to families, retirees, and professionals alike.

Raymore stands out as one of the best places in Missouri to buy a rental property thanks to its strong population growth and rising home values. As more people move away from the city center in search of space and affordability, Raymore continues to grow—and savvy investors are locking in properties while prices are still reasonable. If you're investing in Missouri real estate with an eye on long-term value and dependable tenants, Raymore deserves a spot on your list.

Florissant, MO

Florissant is one of the largest suburbs in the St. Louis metro area and offers a perfect entry point for new investors. With affordable single-family homes, solid rental demand, and a strong community vibe, it checks all the boxes for those exploring starter rental markets in Missouri.

What makes Florissant especially attractive is its place among the most affordable housing markets in Missouri that still provide solid rent potential. You won’t need to overextend financially to get started here, and with the right property, you can generate positive cash flow quickly. For beginners looking to build a foundation in real estate, Florissant offers one of the best places to buy rental property in Missouri without the pressure of big-city prices.

Wentzville, MO

As one of the fastest-growing cities in the state, Wentzville represents a new wave of suburban growth—and a prime opportunity for investors who want to ride the appreciation curve. With excellent schools, new construction, and expanding infrastructure, Wentzville has quickly become one of the top Missouri real estate appreciation markets.

The demand for rentals is rising alongside population growth, and tenants here tend to stay longer thanks to the city’s family-friendly vibe and strong job access. Investors who get in now are positioning themselves for long-term upside, especially as home values continue to rise. For those looking for the best places to buy rental property in Missouri with long-term potential, Wentzville offers the perfect blend of growth, stability, and affordability.

Read Also: Best Places To Buy Rental Property In 2025 For Investors 

The Best Places To Buy Rental Property In Missouri: FAQ

If you’re thinking about getting started in Missouri real estate, you probably have a few questions—and you’re not alone. Whether you’re a local looking to invest in your own backyard or an out-of-state buyer exploring the Missouri rental property market for the first time, these quick answers will help you move forward with confidence.

What is the best city in Missouri to buy rental property?

It depends on your goals, but Kansas City and St. Louis are top picks for cash flow and appreciation, while places like Columbia and Springfield offer stability and strong rental demand.

Is Missouri a good state for real estate investors?

Yes—between affordable housing, steady rent growth, and landlord-friendly laws, real estate investing in Missouri is a solid move for both beginners and experienced investors.

Are Missouri’s landlord-tenant laws investor-friendly?

Generally, yes. Missouri provides a fair and efficient legal process for landlords, especially in counties outside major metros.

What’s the average rent in Missouri?

The statewide average rent is around $1,500 per month, though that number varies by city and property type.

Is Kansas City a good place to invest in real estate?

Absolutely. It’s one of the best cash-flowing markets in the Midwest, with strong rent-to-price ratios and growing demand.

Can I cash flow with a rental property in Missouri?

Yes—especially in cities like Independence, St. Joseph, and parts of Springfield, where home prices are low and rental demand is steady.

What are Missouri’s property taxes like?

Missouri’s property taxes are relatively low, averaging around 0.91% of assessed value, making it more investor-friendly than many coastal states.

Are short-term rentals legal in Missouri?

Yes, though local regulations vary. Branson, for example, is a well-known short-term rental hotspot with clear guidelines for investors.

Is Missouri a good place for out-of-state investors?

Definitely. Many markets offer strong returns and reliable property management options, making it easy to invest remotely.

How do I get started investing in Missouri real estate?

Start by learning how to find deals, run the numbers, and choose the right market—exactly what we teach inside our real estate investing program.

Final Thoughts On The Best Places To Buy Rental Property In Missouri

There’s no question—some of the best places to buy rental property in Missouri are delivering serious value for investors right now. With affordable homes, steady rent demand, and a business-friendly environment, Missouri is the kind of market where you can start small and build real momentum. Whether you’re looking for cash flow, appreciation, or both, the opportunities are real—you just need the right guidance. If you're ready to take the first step toward building a portfolio you’re proud of, our program is here to help you learn, take action, and grow with confidence.

Ready to Take the Next Step in Real Estate Investing? Join our FREE live webinar and discover the proven strategies to build lasting wealth through real estate.

Whether you're just getting started or ready to scale, we'll show you how to take action today. Don't miss this opportunity to learn the insider tips and tools that have helped thousands of investors succeed! Seats are limited—Reserve Your Spot Now!

*Disclosure: Real Estate Skills is not a law firm, and the information contained here does not constitute legal advice. You should consult with an attorney before making any legal conclusions. The information presented here is educational in nature. All investments involve risks, and the past performance of an investment, industry, sector, and/or market does not guarantee future returns or results. Investors are responsible for any investment decision they make. Such decisions should be based on an evaluation of their financial situation, investment objectives, risk tolerance, and liquidity needs.