Cost of Living in Howard County, Nebraska
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Howard County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Howard County ranks #240 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 8%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Howard County, Nebraska
Howard County offers moderate affordability
Howard County renters spend 13.1% of their income on housing, slightly above national standards but reflecting stronger incomes and reasonable rural Nebraska rent levels. With a median household income of $74,508—nearly matching the national median—Howard County offers solid economic footing.
Better than Nebraska's statewide average
At 13.1%, Howard County's rent-to-income ratio beats Nebraska's state average of 14.2%, making it one of the more affordable counties statewide. The median rent of $811 is slightly above the state average of $783, but higher median income more than compensates.
Pricier rentals, but strong incomes offset
Howard County renters pay $811 per month—higher than most neighbors—but the county's median income of $74,508 is among the strongest in the group. This combination yields a 13.1% affordability ratio that beats or matches most surrounding counties despite above-average rents.
Howard County's robust housing position
A typical Howard County renter earning $74,508 annually pays $811 per month—13.1% of their income, leaving substantial resources for other expenses. Homeowners invest in properties worth $205,200 with median monthly costs of $915, among the most valuable homes in this county group.
Howard County rewards stronger earners
If you have a stable, above-average income, Howard County offers the best housing values and homeownership opportunities in the region, with median home values around $205,000. Compare this profile to neighboring Hamilton and Holt counties to find your ideal balance of income potential and housing costs.
Cost of Living Advisory: Howard County
Affordability Verdict
Housing in Howard County is affordable. The median rent is $811/month against a median household income of $74,508, putting rent at 13.1% of income.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Howard County pay $811/month on average, compared to $915/month for homeowners. This market favors renters by about 11%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $32,440/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $39,214/year. With a median household income of $74,508, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 23.0% of renter households in Howard County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Nebraska, Howard County is less affordable than Sherman County by roughly 6% ($811/mo vs $866/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Howard County
Rent Burden
13.1%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,739
per month
Owner Cost Burden
14.7%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Howard County
Median home value is $205,200. Estimated monthly cost: $1,638 vs. your max of $1,739.
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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