Cost of Living in Thurston County, Nebraska
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Thurston County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Thurston County ranks #652 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 21%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Thurston County, Nebraska
Thurston balances modest income and rents well
Thurston County's rent-to-income ratio of 12.9% beats Nebraska's state average of 14.2%, reflecting smart housing economics despite a median income of $64,838. At $698 monthly, rents are among the region's lowest while incomes remain solid.
Strong affordability ranking statewide
Thurston County's 12.9% rent-to-income ratio places it in Nebraska's upper tier for housing affordability. The county delivers genuine relief for renters without requiring exceptional income levels.
Low rent with stable income base
Thurston's $698 rent is the second-lowest after Thomas County ($685), while median income of $64,838 exceeds Sheridan and Sioux. This creates a favorable rental environment with income support that backs up long-term stability.
Renters enjoy the bulk of the advantage
Thurston renters allocate 12.9% of income to $698 rent, while owners spend 12.2% on $662 mortgages—nearly equal despite owners' higher absolute costs. The county's affordability benefit flows primarily to renters seeking low-cost housing.
Thurston County attracts cost-conscious renters
If you're relocating to rent affordably in Nebraska while maintaining stable employment, Thurston County offers low housing costs paired with reasonable income levels. The county's combination of modest rents and fair home values makes it competitive for both renters and modest-budget buyers.
Cost of Living Advisory: Thurston County
Affordability Verdict
Housing in Thurston County is affordable. The median rent is $698/month against a median household income of $64,838, putting rent at 12.9% of income.
Rent vs. Own
At $698/month rent versus $662/month in owner costs, owning is roughly $36/month cheaper — a 5% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $27,920/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $28,371/year. With a median household income of $64,838, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 19.0% of renter households in Thurston County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Chase County where rent averages $749/month, Thurston County is approximately 7% less expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Thurston County
Rent Burden
12.9%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,513
per month
Owner Cost Burden
12.3%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Thurston County
Median home value is $105,100. Estimated monthly cost: $839 vs. your max of $1,513.
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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