Cost of Living in Loup County, Nebraska
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Loup County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Loup County ranks #2 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 0%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Loup County, Nebraska
Loup County keeps rents well below national average
With a 13.0% rent-to-income ratio, Loup County renters spend less on housing than the national average, despite a median household income of $60,156 that falls below the U.S. benchmark of $74,755. The $650 monthly rent is notably low, making this county one of Nebraska's most affordable rental markets.
Below-average rents prop up affordability across Nebraska
Loup County's 13.0% rent-to-income ratio beats the state average of 14.2%, placing it in the more affordable tier of Nebraska counties. Lower household incomes here are offset by some of the state's cheapest rents, creating genuine affordability despite modest wages.
Loup offers the cheapest rents in the region
Loup County's $650 monthly rent is the lowest among neighboring counties—McPherson ($653), Logan ($725), Merrick ($772), and Madison ($851) all charge more. The trade-off is lower household incomes, but renters get exceptional value on housing costs here.
Modest income, minimal housing burden
The $650 monthly rent consumes just 13% of the $60,156 median household income, while homeowners pay $739 in monthly owner costs. This lean housing-cost structure gives Loup County residents uncommon financial flexibility despite below-average wages.
Loup attracts those seeking extreme affordability
Loup County is Nebraska's answer for renters and buyers on tight budgets, with $120,700 median home values and $650 rents. Stack this data against neighboring counties to determine if Loup's low-income-low-cost model fits your relocation priorities.
Cost of Living Advisory: Loup County
Affordability Verdict
Housing in Loup County is affordable. The median rent is $650/month against a median household income of $60,156, putting rent at 13.0% of income.
Rent vs. Own
At $650/month rent versus $739/month in owner costs, renting is roughly $89/month cheaper — a 12% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $26,000/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $31,671/year. With a median household income of $60,156, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 14.0% of renter households in Loup County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Clay County where rent averages $701/month, Loup County is approximately 7% less expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Loup County
Rent Burden
13.0%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,404
per month
Owner Cost Burden
14.7%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Loup County
Median home value is $120,700. Estimated monthly cost: $964 vs. your max of $1,404.
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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