Cost of Living in Boone County, Nebraska
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Boone County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Boone County ranks #46 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 1%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Boone County, Nebraska
Boone County: Nebraska's most affordable
Boone County's 12.3% rent-to-income ratio beats both the national average and Nebraska's state average of 14.2%, making it the most affordable county in this peer group. With a median household income of $71,367 and rent at just $734 monthly, Boone renters enjoy genuine affordability cushion.
Top-tier affordability across Nebraska
Boone County ranks among Nebraska's least expensive rental markets, with a 12.3% rent-to-income ratio that sets it apart statewide. At $734 monthly rent—$49 below the state median—and above-median income of $71,367, Boone delivers the best housing value among comparable counties.
The region's affordable leader
Boone County's $734 rent undercuts all neighbors except Antelope ($746) and Boyd ($650), while its income of $71,367 exceeds most peers. This combination—strong wages plus low rent—positions Boone as the region's affordability champion for both stability and cost control.
Balanced, comfortable housing economics
Renters and homeowners alike spend nearly equal monthly amounts ($734 rent vs. $740 mortgage), with each consuming just 12.3-12.4% of the $71,367 median income. This exceptional alignment and low burden ratio leave substantial breathing room for savings, education, and quality of life.
Your top choice for rural affordability
Boone County stands out: strong incomes, low rents, and balanced ownership costs create genuine financial flexibility for relocating households. Whether you're renting or buying, Boone delivers the best cost-of-living profile in rural Nebraska—a compelling draw for families and workers seeking stability.
Cost of Living Advisory: Boone County
Affordability Verdict
Boone County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $734/month representing approximately 12.3% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 19.0%.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Boone County pay $734/month on average, compared to $740/month for homeowners. This market favors renters by about 1%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $29,360/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $31,714/year. With a median household income of $71,367, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 19.0% of renter households in Boone County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Nebraska, Boone County is more affordable than Cedar County by roughly 7% ($734/mo vs $683/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Boone County
Rent Burden
12.3%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,665
per month
Owner Cost Burden
12.4%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Boone County
Median home value is $164,700. Estimated monthly cost: $1,315 vs. your max of $1,665.
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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