Springfield, Missouri is considered one of the cities with the lowest rental costs in the United States. Compared to large cities or coastal areas, the difference in rental prices is significant, making Springfield an attractive option for workers, students, and retirees looking for a low-cost lifestyle. This article provides a detailed look at the rental prices for 1-bedroom apartments in Springfield for 2025, broken down by area and type.

The average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in Springfield in 2025 is around $700 to $900 per month. According to recent data from real estate rental platforms like Zumper, Apartments.com, and Rent.com, the median rent for 1-bedrooms across Springfield is approximately $750 to $850. This is about half of the national average rent for a 1-bedroom, which is around $1,500 (as of 2024), and significantly lower than nearby Kansas City (about $1,100) or St. Louis (about $1,050). Within Missouri, Springfield also ranks as one of the cities with the lowest rental costs.

There are also differences in rental prices by area. The Downtown and Midtown areas have many apartments in renovated older buildings, with rent ranging from $600 to $800 per month. With recent urban redevelopment, some new luxury apartments are being offered, where 1-bedroom rents can rise to $1,000 to $1,300. Near MSU (Sunshine Street and other college areas), rental demand from students is strong, making it relatively easy to find 1-bedrooms in the $700 to $850 range. Some furnished options are available, which are convenient for international students or short-term residents.

In the southwestern part of Springfield (near Republic Road / James River Freeway), many new apartment complexes are being built, featuring modern amenities and ample parking. The average rent for a 1-bedroom in this area is around $850 to $1,050, which is relatively high within Springfield. Many upscale apartment complexes come with amenities like pools, fitness centers, and dog parks, contributing to a price premium. The southeastern area (near Glendale / Battlefield Road) is a stable residential area with many 1-bedroom listings in the $780 to $950 range. Northern Springfield (north of Campbell Ave) tends to have lower rents, with listings available for around $600 to $750.

Rental agreements in Springfield typically involve a 12-month lease, with a security deposit usually equivalent to one month's rent. For pet-friendly apartments, an additional pet deposit is required, typically ranging from $200 to $500. Whether utilities (electricity, gas, water) are included varies by apartment, but it is more common in Springfield for utilities to be separate. The combined utility costs for electricity, gas, and water vary by season but average around $150 to $250 per month. Utility costs tend to increase during the summer air conditioning season (June to August) and the winter heating season (December to February).

In addition to rent, Springfield has a low overall cost of living, which helps maintain a high disposable income. According to the Cost of Living Index, Springfield is rated about 15-20% lower than the national average (100). Grocery, healthcare, and transportation costs are all below the national average, with the savings on rent being particularly notable. If you're looking for a rental apartment in Springfield, it's recommended to actively use online platforms like Apartments.com, Zillow Rentals, Facebook Marketplace, and Craigslist Springfield, and to check the condition of listings through in-person visits or video tours before moving in.