Cost of Living in Hayes County, Nebraska
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Hayes County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Hayes County ranks #218 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 7%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Hayes County, Nebraska
Hayes County leads on rental affordability
Hayes County renters spend just 8.3% of their income on housing—significantly lower than the national household income average and among the best in the nation for affordability. At $419 per month in median rent, Hayes County offers exceptional housing costs for rural America.
Nebraska's most affordable rental market
Hayes County's 8.3% rent-to-income ratio is the lowest in Nebraska, far outperforming the state average of 14.2%. With a median rent of $419—less than half the state average of $783—Hayes County is a standout for cost-conscious renters.
Dramatically cheaper than nearby counties
Hayes County renters pay just $419 per month compared to $708 in Harlan County and $715 in Hitchcock County—a difference of nearly $300 per month. This makes Hayes County the clear winner for renters willing to embrace a remote rural lifestyle.
Hayes County's exceptional housing math
A typical Hayes County renter earning $60,313 annually spends just $419 per month on rent—only 8.3% of their income, freeing up hundreds of dollars for savings. Homeowners pay $721 monthly for properties valued at $112,800, also offering strong affordability and equity building.
Hayes County rewards remote workers
If you work remotely and want to maximize your savings, Hayes County offers the lowest rents in Nebraska at just $419 per month. With such exceptionally low housing costs, your paycheck stretches further here than almost anywhere else in the state.
Cost of Living Advisory: Hayes County
Affordability Verdict
Housing in Hayes County is affordable. The median rent is $419/month against a median household income of $60,313, putting rent at 8.3% of income.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Hayes County pay $419/month on average, compared to $721/month for homeowners. This market favors renters by about 42%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $16,760/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $30,900/year. With a median household income of $60,313, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 14.0% of renter households in Hayes County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Hayes County sits 19% less expensive than Garfield County ($519/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Hayes County
Rent Burden
8.3%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,407
per month
Owner Cost Burden
14.3%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Hayes County
Median home value is $112,800. Estimated monthly cost: $901 vs. your max of $1,407.
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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