Cost of Living in Seward County, Nebraska
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Seward County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Seward County ranks #537 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 17%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Seward County, Nebraska
Seward offers solid affordability with good income
Seward County's median household income of $81,122 exceeds the national average of $74,755, while its 14.3% rent-to-income ratio sits near national affordability norms. With monthly rent at $969, residents enjoy reasonable housing costs paired with above-average earning power.
Above-average income, average affordability
Seward County's rent-to-income ratio of 14.3% sits just 0.1 point above Nebraska's state average of 14.2%, placing it squarely at the state's median. With a strong $81,122 median income—third-highest among these eight counties—Seward offers stability without premium pricing.
Middle ground between rural and metro
Seward's $81,122 income falls between rural counties like Rock ($57,500) and wealthy Sarpy ($101,402), while monthly rents of $969 reflect this middle position. Home values at $232,400 similarly chart a balanced course between rural affordability and metro expense.
Balanced income, balanced housing costs
Seward households earn $81,122 annually and allocate $969 to rent or $1,105 to ownership, consuming 14.3% and 16.3% of income respectively. This moderate approach leaves roughly $5,700 monthly for all other expenses—solid but not exceptional.
Seward for the Nebraska middle ground
If you seek a middle path between rural and metro Nebraska, Seward County fits: solid income, reasonable housing, and home values around $232,400. You'll find neither exceptional bargains nor premium costs—just balanced, sustainable housing economics.
Cost of Living Advisory: Seward County
Affordability Verdict
Seward County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $969/month representing approximately 14.3% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 25.0%.
Rent vs. Own
At $969/month rent versus $1,105/month in owner costs, renting is roughly $136/month cheaper — a 12% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $38,760/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $47,357/year. With a median household income of $81,122, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 25.0% of renter households in Seward County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Nebraska, Seward County is more affordable than Cheyenne County by roughly 6% ($969/mo vs $912/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Seward County
Rent Burden
14.3%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,893
per month
Owner Cost Burden
16.3%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Seward County
Median home value is $232,400. Estimated monthly cost: $1,855 vs. your max of $1,893.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
See how much you need to earn to comfortably afford housing
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
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
What is the cost of living in Seward County, Nebraska?
What is the median rent in Seward County?
Is Seward County affordable?
How does Seward County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Seward County?
Counties with Similar Housing Costs
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Seward County, Nebraska? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCompare Mortgage Rates in Seward County
Whether you're buying your first home or refinancing, compare rates from top lenders to find the best deal.
See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.
CostByCounty participates in affiliate programs. We may earn a commission when you use our links, at no extra cost to you.