Cost of Living in Buffalo County, Nebraska
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Buffalo County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Buffalo County ranks #2,648 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 16%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Buffalo County, Nebraska
Buffalo County matches national norms
Buffalo County's rent-to-income ratio of 14.7% sits just slightly above Nebraska's state average of 14.2% and remains well below the national benchmark. With a median household income of $74,570—virtually identical to the national median of $74,755—this county offers fairly balanced housing affordability.
Middle-of-the-road affordability
Buffalo County ranks solidly in Nebraska's affordability middle, with housing costs that track closely to state averages. The county's income levels help offset rental costs, making it more accessible than struggling rural neighbors.
Higher costs, higher incomes
Buffalo County's $911 rent is notably higher than Cedar County ($683) and Burt County ($688), but its $74,570 median income significantly exceeds these neighbors. This income advantage makes Buffalo County's relatively pricier housing more manageable than raw numbers suggest.
Buffalo County housing balance
Renters here spend roughly $10,932 annually on housing—about 14.7% of a typical $74,570 income—while homeowners allocate 19.9% toward ownership costs. The gap reflects Buffalo County's higher home values ($236,800 median), which appeal to established families with stronger finances.
Affordability for mid-income earners
Buffalo County works well for households earning $70,000–$85,000, offering rental and ownership options without severe affordability stress. The county's balanced income-to-housing ratio makes it an attractive Nebraska base for regional workers.
Cost of Living Advisory: Buffalo County
Affordability Verdict
Buffalo County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $911/month representing approximately 14.7% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 25.0%.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Buffalo County is $911/month, while owner costs run $1,239/month. Renting saves approximately $328/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $36,440/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $53,100/year. With a median household income of $74,570, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 25.0% of renter households in Buffalo County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Buffalo County sits 7% more expensive than Adams County ($853/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Buffalo County
Rent Burden
14.7%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,740
per month
Owner Cost Burden
19.9%
of gross income
The median home in Buffalo County may be a stretch
Median home value is $236,800. Estimated monthly cost: $1,890 vs. your max of $1,740.
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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