Cost of Living in Hamilton County, Nebraska
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Hamilton County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Hamilton County ranks #415 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 13%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Hamilton County, Nebraska
Hamilton County rents remain affordable
With a rent-to-income ratio of 11.7%, Hamilton County renters spend less of their paycheck on housing than the national median household income suggests they would. This is notably better than the national trend, where housing costs typically consume a larger share of household budgets.
Better than Nebraska's housing average
Hamilton County's 11.7% rent-to-income ratio beats Nebraska's state average of 14.2%, making it one of the more affordable counties in the state for renters. The county's median gross rent of $776 per month is nearly identical to the state average, but stronger incomes ($79,884 median) make the difference.
The most affordable in the region
Hamilton County renters have it better than residents of nearby Howard County, where the rent-to-income ratio reaches 13.1%. While Hamilton's median rent is just $5 less per month than neighboring Harlan County, Hamilton's higher median income makes housing significantly more manageable.
Where your money goes in Hamilton
A typical Hamilton County renter earning $79,884 annually spends $776 per month on rent—just 11.7% of their income. Homeowners with a median monthly cost of $1,133 invest in properties worth $238,700, a solid equity opportunity for those with capital.
Consider Hamilton for rural affordability
If you're seeking a Nebraska county with solid incomes and manageable housing costs, Hamilton County offers both at rates better than the state average. Compare this profile to nearby Howard and Harlan counties to find your best fit in south-central Nebraska.
Cost of Living Advisory: Hamilton County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Hamilton County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $776/month in gross rent, with 24.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Hamilton County pay $776/month on average, compared to $1,133/month for homeowners. This market favors renters by about 32%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $31,040/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $48,557/year. With a median household income of $79,884, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 24.0% of renter households in Hamilton County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Nebraska, Hamilton County is less affordable than Deuel County by roughly 6% ($776/mo vs $827/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Hamilton County
Rent Burden
11.7%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,864
per month
Owner Cost Burden
17.0%
of gross income
The median home in Hamilton County may be a stretch
Median home value is $238,700. Estimated monthly cost: $1,906 vs. your max of $1,864.
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
What is the cost of living in Hamilton County, Nebraska?
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What is the median home value in Hamilton County?
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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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