Cost of Living in Dodge County, Nebraska
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Dodge County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Dodge County, Nebraska
Dodge faces affordability pressure vs. nation
Dodge County's 16.6% rent-to-income ratio tops Nebraska's state average of 14.2% and exceeds national norms, signaling housing strain despite decent wages. The median household income of $71,294 falls slightly below the national median of $74,755, yet median rent of $985 is notably high, creating a squeeze for renters. Dodge's urban center (Fremont area) drives up costs relative to income in ways many Nebraska counties avoid.
Dodge ranks among Nebraska's least affordable
At 16.6%, Dodge County's rent-to-income ratio exceeds the state average by 2.4 percentage points, placing it among Nebraska's pricier rental markets. Median rent of $985 runs 25.8% higher than the state average of $783, reflecting Dodge's more urbanized economy and demand pressures. Only a handful of Nebraska counties approach Dodge's affordability challenge for renters.
Dodge rents dominate the regional landscape
At $985 monthly, Dodge's median rent far exceeds neighboring Deuel ($827), Dixon ($661), and Fillmore ($667)—often by $150 to $300 per month. Even Douglas County (the Omaha area, typically pricier) sits at $1,162, but Dodge renters actually earn less than Douglas households while paying nearly as much rent. Dodge's housing costs create a distinctly tight affordability situation in its region.
Dodge renters spend one-sixth on housing
Dodge households earning $71,294 annually ($5,941/month) allocate $985 to rent, consuming 16.6% of gross income and leaving just 83.4% for all other needs. Homeowners fare better at 16.3% of income ($967 monthly), though median home values of $188,100 demand either substantial down payments or higher mortgages over time. The rental market presents the steeper affordability challenge for Dodge households.
Dodge: urban amenities, premium housing costs
If you're drawn to Dodge's urban services and job market, expect to allocate roughly one-sixth of income to housing—higher than most Nebraska peers. Homebuyers should budget $967 monthly for ownership at median values of $188,100, feasible for local incomes but requiring discipline. Renters evaluating relocation should compare Dodge's $985 rents carefully against more affordable nearby counties like Dixon or Franklin.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Dodge County
Rent Burden
16.6%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,664
per month
Owner Cost Burden
16.3%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Dodge County
Median home value is $188,100. Estimated monthly cost: $1,502 vs. your max of $1,664.
Rent Affordability Guide
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.