Cost of Living in Pawnee County, Nebraska
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Pawnee County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Pawnee County, Nebraska
Pawnee rents affordable, but income is lower
Pawnee County renters spend 13.5% of their income on housing, just slightly above Nebraska's state average of 14.2%. However, the median household income of $54,926 is significantly below the national average of $74,755, meaning housing affordability is relative to lower earnings.
Budget-friendly county with economic challenge
Pawnee ranks among Nebraska's most affordable counties for rent at 13.5% of income, but its median household income is the lowest in this eight-county comparison. The trade-off: cheap housing in a county facing economic pressures.
Cheapest rent, but income lags the region
Pawnee's $616 median rent ties Nuckolls as the lowest here, and both beat every other county in the comparison. Yet Pawnee's $54,926 median income trails all neighbors, meaning the affordability advantage is driven more by lower incomes than lower costs.
Affordability masks limited earning potential
Pawnee households earn just $54,926 annually and spend $616 on rent or $586 on mortgages—proportionally affordable at 13-14% of income. However, this lower earning power leaves less total income for savings, healthcare, and other expenses after housing is covered.
Pawnee suits seekers of true affordability
If rock-bottom housing costs are your goal, Pawnee's $616 rent and $74,800 median home values are unbeatable in this region. Be aware that lower housing costs reflect broader economic conditions; job opportunities and wages may be more limited than nearby counties.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Pawnee County
Rent Burden
13.5%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,282
per month
Owner Cost Burden
12.8%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Pawnee County
Median home value is $74,800. Estimated monthly cost: $597 vs. your max of $1,282.
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.