Cost of Living in Adams County, Nebraska
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Adams County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Adams County ranks #2,563 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 18%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Adams County, Nebraska
Adams rents bite harder than average
Adams County renters spend 15.6% of their income on rent, outpacing the national average of about 14% and putting housing costs firmly in the "cost-burdened" category. The median household here earns $65,680—roughly $9,000 less than the U.S. median—while rents average $853 per month, the highest gap between income and housing costs among comparable counties.
Above average for Nebraska
Adams County's 15.6% rent-to-income ratio ranks it as more costly than most Nebraska counties and notably higher than the state average of 14.2%. At $853 monthly, Adams rents run $70 above the state median, making it one of Nebraska's pricier rental markets despite moderate home prices.
Pricier than surrounding counties
Adams County renters face steeper costs than nearby Antelope County ($746) and Blaine County ($786), though they pay less than Banner County ($975). Among peers with similar population and geography, Adams stands out for the disconnect between modest wages and elevated rental demand.
Rent and mortgage split the burden
Renters spend $853 monthly while homeowners carry $956 in mortgage costs—nearly identical burdens that collectively consume significant income. With a median income of $65,680 annually ($5,473 monthly), both housing groups stretch toward the 20% affordability threshold, leaving limited room for other expenses.
Consider affordability before relocating
If you're eyeing Adams County, compare your rent expectations against the 15.6% benchmark: households earning under $65,000 will likely feel housing squeeze. Exploring nearby Antelope or Blaine counties could unlock modest savings while keeping you in rural Nebraska's social fabric.
Cost of Living Advisory: Adams County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Adams County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $853/month in gross rent, with 29.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Adams County is $853/month, while owner costs run $956/month. Renting saves approximately $103/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $34,120/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $40,971/year. With a median household income of $65,680, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 29.0% of renter households in Adams County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Adams County sits 6% less expensive than Otoe County ($905/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Adams County
Rent Burden
15.6%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,533
per month
Owner Cost Burden
17.5%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Adams County
Median home value is $185,800. Estimated monthly cost: $1,483 vs. your max of $1,533.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
See how much you need to earn to comfortably afford housing
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Based on the 30% rule for rent and 28% rule for housing costs (mortgage + owner costs). Mortgage estimate assumes 20% down, 7.2% interest, 30-year fixed.
Frequently Asked Questions
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See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.
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