Cost of Living in Harlan County, Nebraska
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Harlan County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Harlan County ranks #93 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 3%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Harlan County, Nebraska
Harlan County offers accessible rents
Renters in Harlan County spend 12.0% of their income on housing—well below the national median household income threshold and competitive with national affordability standards. This puts Harlan County firmly in the affordable housing category for rural Nebraska.
Better than state average affordability
At 12.0%, Harlan County's rent-to-income ratio beats Nebraska's statewide average of 14.2%, making it one of the state's more accessible counties for renters. Despite having a median income of $70,536—below the state median—Harlan's low rent of $708 per month keeps housing costs manageable.
Competitive with nearby counties
Harlan County's 12.0% rent-to-income ratio matches Hamilton County (11.7%) and beats Holt County (12.9%), making it one of the most balanced housing markets in the region. Homebuyers benefit from notably lower median home values ($147,200) compared to Hamilton County ($238,700).
Rent and ownership in Harlan County
A typical Harlan County renter earning $70,536 annually pays $708 per month in rent—12% of their income. Homeowners face similar costs with a median monthly payment of just $690, making homeownership nearly equivalent to renting in this county.
Budget-conscious buyers should explore Harlan
Harlan County delivers strong housing affordability for both renters and homebuyers, with homes averaging $147,200 and rents under $750 per month. If you're comparing south-central Nebraska counties, Harlan deserves serious consideration for its balanced costs and lower entry price to homeownership.
Cost of Living Advisory: Harlan County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Harlan County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $708/month in gross rent, with 19.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Harlan County pay $708/month on average, compared to $690/month for homeowners. This market favors buyers by about 3%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $28,320/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $29,571/year. With a median household income of $70,536, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 19.0% of renter households in Harlan County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Harlan County sits 8% more expensive than McPherson County ($653/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Harlan County
Rent Burden
12.0%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,646
per month
Owner Cost Burden
11.7%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Harlan County
Median home value is $147,200. Estimated monthly cost: $1,175 vs. your max of $1,646.
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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