Cost of Living in McPherson County, Nebraska
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How McPherson County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
McPherson County ranks #116 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 4%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in McPherson County, Nebraska
McPherson County keeps housing costs remarkably lean
McPherson County's 12.8% rent-to-income ratio sits comfortably below the national standard, thanks to the lowest monthly rent in the region at $653. Even though median household income ($61,316) falls short of the national average ($74,755), renters here enjoy exceptional affordability.
McPherson ranks among Nebraska's most affordable counties
At 12.8%, McPherson County's rent-to-income ratio beats the state average of 14.2%, placing it in Nebraska's affordability sweet spot. Modest wages are paired with some of the state's lowest rents, creating genuine housing security for residents.
McPherson and Loup compete for cheapest rents
McPherson County's $653 monthly rent is virtually identical to Loup County's $650, making both rural Nebraska's most affordable rental markets. Logan ($725), Merrick ($772), and Madison ($851) all command significantly higher rents, giving McPherson renters a clear advantage.
Owner costs are the county's real bargain
McPherson County's $653 rent and $680 monthly owner cost are both among the lowest in the state, consuming just 12.8% of the $61,316 median household income. This lean structure means residents have more income left for savings and other necessities.
McPherson delivers affordable housing for rural seekers
McPherson County offers one of Nebraska's best rent-to-income ratios and median home values of just $124,200, ideal for budget-conscious relocators. Cross-reference McPherson's numbers against neighboring counties to confirm whether this affordable corner of the state suits your needs.
Cost of Living Advisory: McPherson County
Affordability Verdict
Housing in McPherson County is affordable. The median rent is $653/month against a median household income of $61,316, putting rent at 12.8% of income.
Rent vs. Own
At $653/month rent versus $680/month in owner costs, renting is roughly $27/month cheaper — a 4% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $26,120/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $29,143/year. With a median household income of $61,316, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 19.0% of renter households in McPherson County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Nebraska, McPherson County is less affordable than Harlan County by roughly 8% ($653/mo vs $708/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in McPherson County
Rent Burden
12.8%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,431
per month
Owner Cost Burden
13.3%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in McPherson County
Median home value is $124,200. Estimated monthly cost: $992 vs. your max of $1,431.
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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