Cost of Living in Merrick County, Nebraska
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Merrick County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Merrick County, Nebraska
Merrick County rents edge above state benchmark
With a 14.7% rent-to-income ratio, Merrick County sits slightly above Nebraska's state average of 14.2%, indicating modest affordability pressure on renters. The $772 monthly rent is respectable for a rural Nebraska county, paired with a $62,849 median household income that remains below the national average.
Merrick sits near the middle of Nebraska's affordability range
Merrick County's 14.7% rent-to-income ratio places it just above the state average, making it a middle-tier option among Nebraska counties. Housing costs here are moderate relative to peer communities, though renters experience slightly more budget pressure than in the state's most affordable counties.
Merrick rents fall between affordable and expensive peers
Merrick County's $772 rent sits in the middle—cheaper than Madison's $851 but pricier than Logan ($725), McPherson ($653), and Loup ($650). This moderate positioning makes Merrick a reasonable option for those seeking balance between affordability and amenities in central Nebraska.
Rent and ownership split the housing-cost picture
Renters pay $772 monthly while homeowners pay $929, consuming 14.7% and manageable portions of the $62,849 median household income. Merrick's $168,000 median home value and moderate rent-to-income ratio suggest stable, predictable housing costs for both renters and buyers.
Merrick County offers balanced mid-range options
Merrick County presents a middle path for relocators—not the cheapest, but with reasonable $772 rents and $168,000 median home values. Compare Merrick's affordability numbers to Logan and Madison to find where your budget and housing preferences align best.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Merrick County
Rent Burden
14.7%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,466
per month
Owner Cost Burden
17.7%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Merrick County
Median home value is $168,000. Estimated monthly cost: $1,341 vs. your max of $1,466.
Rent Affordability Guide
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.