Cost of Living in Richardson County, Nebraska
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Richardson County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Richardson County ranks #599 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 19%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Richardson County, Nebraska
Richardson punches above affordability weight
Richardson County renters dedicate just 14.9% of income to housing, nearly matching the national average despite a median household income of $55,578—well below the national median of $74,755. This unusual affordability advantage stems from modest rental costs of just $692 monthly paired with a tight-knit local economy.
Among Nebraska's most livable counties
Richardson's rent-to-income ratio of 14.9% edges above Nebraska's state average of 14.2%, placing it near the middle of the affordability spectrum statewide. At $692 monthly rent, Richardson undercuts the state average of $783, making it one of the state's more budget-friendly options.
The deal county of its region
Richardson's $692 rent is the lowest among its peers—substantially cheaper than Red Willow's $778 and even undercutting Rock County's $608, delivering genuine bargain hunting. With a $55,578 median income, Richardson residents enjoy a 14.9% rent burden that's actually competitive despite lower earning power.
Lean budgets, lean housing costs
Richardson households earn $55,578 annually yet pay only $692 for rent or $673 for ownership—the lowest owner costs in this comparison. This efficiency means housing absorbs roughly 14–15% of income, preserving resources for food, healthcare, and savings.
Richardson: Nebraska's hidden affordability gem
Relocating professionals and families seeking deep affordability should examine Richardson closely—rents and ownership costs rank among the state's lowest, with median home values around $96,500. Your income may be lower, but your dollar stretches further here than in nearly any other Nebraska county.
Cost of Living Advisory: Richardson County
Affordability Verdict
Richardson County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $692/month representing approximately 14.9% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 22.0%.
Rent vs. Own
At $692/month rent versus $673/month in owner costs, owning is roughly $19/month cheaper — a 3% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $27,680/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $28,843/year. With a median household income of $55,578, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 22.0% of renter households in Richardson County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Richardson County sits 7% less expensive than Sioux County ($743/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Richardson County
Rent Burden
14.9%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,297
per month
Owner Cost Burden
14.5%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Richardson County
Median home value is $96,500. Estimated monthly cost: $770 vs. your max of $1,297.
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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