Cost of Living in Jefferson County, Nebraska
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Jefferson County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Jefferson County ranks #1,154 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 37%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Jefferson County, Nebraska
Jefferson County offers moderate affordability
Jefferson County renters spend 13.1% of their income on housing, slightly above the national household income baseline but reasonable for a rural Midwest county. With a median rent of $659 per month and income of $60,568, Jefferson County occupies middle ground for affordability.
Better than Nebraska's state average
At 13.1%, Jefferson County's rent-to-income ratio beats Nebraska's state average of 14.2%, placing it among the state's more affordable counties. The median rent of $659 is notably lower than Nebraska's state average of $783, benefiting from lower rural housing costs.
Affordable rents in a mixed regional market
Jefferson County renters pay $659 per month—less than Harlan ($708), Hamilton ($776), and Howard ($811) but more than Hayes ($419) and Hooker ($581). At 13.1% affordability, Jefferson matches Howard County and beats most neighbors, making it a solid middle option.
Jefferson County's balanced housing budget
A typical Jefferson County renter earning $60,568 annually pays $659 per month—13.1% of their income. Homeowners pay $856 monthly for properties worth $117,600, requiring stronger income commitment but building equity in moderately priced homes.
Jefferson County balances rent and value
Jefferson County delivers below-state-average rents with solid affordability ratios, making it worth considering if you're comparing southeast Nebraska options. Compare this profile to nearby Harlan and Holt counties to evaluate which combination of rent prices, homeownership values, and local income levels fits your relocation goals.
Cost of Living Advisory: Jefferson County
Affordability Verdict
Housing in Jefferson County is affordable. The median rent is $659/month against a median household income of $60,568, putting rent at 13.1% of income.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Jefferson County pay $659/month on average, compared to $856/month for homeowners. This market favors renters by about 23%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $26,360/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $36,686/year. With a median household income of $60,568, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 26.0% of renter households in Jefferson County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Rock County where rent averages $608/month, Jefferson County is approximately 8% more expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Jefferson County
Rent Burden
13.1%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,413
per month
Owner Cost Burden
17.0%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Jefferson County
Median home value is $117,600. Estimated monthly cost: $939 vs. your max of $1,413.
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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