Cost of Living in Kimball County, Nebraska
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Kimball County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Kimball County ranks #1,372 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 44%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Kimball County, Nebraska
Kimball County renters carry above-average burden
Kimball County's 17.2% rent-to-income ratio ranks among the least affordable in the nation, with renters spending nearly one of every six dollars on housing. Median household income of $59,438 trails the U.S. average, intensifying the affordability strain.
Kimball ranks among Nebraska's hardest hit
Kimball County's 17.2% rent-to-income ratio far exceeds Nebraska's 14.2% state average, placing it among the state's least affordable counties. At $853 monthly, Kimball rents rank highest in the county cohort, yet incomes remain modest.
Highest rents hit lowest-income households
Kimball County's $853 monthly rent ranks highest among all peers while its $59,438 income sits near the bottom, creating the second-worst affordability ratio regionally. Only Keya Paha County stretches renters tighter, making Kimball a challenging market for those without substantial savings.
Kimball's housing costs dominate household budgets
Renters pay $853 monthly while homeowners spend $761 on mortgages for homes valued at $109,900. Together, housing claims about 17% of household income—nearly $10,200 annually—leaving modest room for other essential expenses.
Kimball County demands financial preparedness
Kimball County's high rents ($853) and high affordability ratios (17.2%) make relocation here risky unless you're confident in income stability. Compare this option against lower-cost Nebraska counties or regions with stronger job markets before committing.
Cost of Living Advisory: Kimball County
Affordability Verdict
Kimball County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $853/month representing approximately 17.2% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 27.0%.
Rent vs. Own
At $853/month rent versus $761/month in owner costs, owning is roughly $92/month cheaper — a 11% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $34,120/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $32,614/year. With a median household income of $59,438, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 27.0% of renter households in Kimball County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Nebraska, Kimball County is less affordable than Otoe County by roughly 6% ($853/mo vs $905/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Kimball County
Rent Burden
17.2%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,387
per month
Owner Cost Burden
15.4%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Kimball County
Median home value is $109,900. Estimated monthly cost: $877 vs. your max of $1,387.
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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