Cost of Living in Keith County, Nebraska
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Keith County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Keith County ranks #1,359 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 43%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Keith County, Nebraska
Keith County renters stretch tight incomes
Keith County's 15.9% rent-to-income ratio sits above national affordability comfort, reflecting housing costs that consume more than average. Median household income of $58,132 trails the U.S. average by $16,600, putting renters in a financially constrained position nationwide.
Among Nebraska's least affordable counties
Keith County's 15.9% rent-to-income ratio ranks above Nebraska's 14.2% average, placing it among less affordable counties statewide despite modest rent of $772. Lower incomes relative to housing costs create the affordability squeeze.
Lowest rent, lowest income in the region
Keith County's $772 monthly rent ranks lowest among peers, but so does its $58,132 median income—tying with Johnson County as the region's lowest earner. This affordability paradox means renters benefit from cheap housing but lack the income cushion of wealthier neighbors.
Keith County's housing burden breakdown
Renters pay $772 monthly while homeowners spend $853 on mortgages for homes valued at $157,000. Together, housing claims approximately 16% of household income, leaving families $9,300 annually absorbed by rent or mortgage obligations.
Keith County works for budget movers
If you're relocating with modest income expectations, Keith County's low rents ($772) and affordable home values ($157,000, $853/month mortgage) provide solid foundation. However, compare earning potential: stronger-paying regions like Kearney County might offset slightly higher housing costs.
Cost of Living Advisory: Keith County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Keith County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $772/month in gross rent, with 27.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Keith County is $772/month, while owner costs run $853/month. Renting saves approximately $81/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $30,880/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $36,557/year. With a median household income of $58,132, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 27.0% of renter households in Keith County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Deuel County where rent averages $827/month, Keith County is approximately 7% less expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Keith County
Rent Burden
15.9%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,356
per month
Owner Cost Burden
17.6%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Keith County
Median home value is $157,000. Estimated monthly cost: $1,253 vs. your max of $1,356.
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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