Average Rent in Boone County, NE↑ Rents rising 5.5% YoY🔻 2nd cheapest in NE
HUD FY2027 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 5,366
Market Overview
Boone County, NE has rental prices ranging from $734/month to $1,333/month in 2027, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $775/month — 45% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $71,367/year, spending $775/month on a 1-bedroom represents 13% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.
How Boone County Compares
With an average 2-bedroom rent of $1,014/month, Boone County ranks #88 most expensive of the 89 cities tracked in Nebraska — more affordable than 63% of all US cities in our data.
The Boone County Rental Market
The Boone County, NE area has a population of about 5,366 and 21% of households renting rather than owning. That renter share runs below the US average of ~34%, a more homeowner-heavy market where rental inventory can be limited.
Rent Trends
2-bedroom rents in Boone County, NE have risen by $53/month (5.5%) over the past year, from $961 to $1,014. This modest growth is consistent with broader inflationary trends seen across US rental markets.
Affordability
To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Boone County, NE without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $31,000. The local median household income of $71,367 exceeds that threshold by $40,367, making Boone County relatively accessible compared to local wages.
Economy & Jobs
Boone County, NE has an unemployment rate of 1.9%, 2.0 percentage points below the national average of 3.9%. Strong employment conditions typically sustain rental demand, as workers relocate to the area and local residents maintain stable housing.
Fair Market Rents
HUD FY2027Is Boone County, NE Affordable?
Income needed to rent or buy, price history, and how this city compares to nearby metros.
Affordability Index(30% income rule)
Nearby Cities in NElargest metros in the state
| City | Studio | 1BR | 2BR | 3BR | Home Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lincoln | $948 | $1,009 | $1,230 | $1,703 | — |
| Hall County | $902 | $972 | $1,210 | $1,505 | — |
| Buffalo County | $899 | $904 | $1,097 | $1,432 | — |
| Dodge County | $874 | $923 | $1,207 | $1,438 | — |
| Scotts Bluff County | $712 | $782 | $1,023 | $1,294 | — |
| Madison County | $753 | $866 | $1,082 | $1,400 | — |
Rent or Buy in Boone County?
Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.
Should I Rent or Buy?
Break-even analysis using real Boone County data
Buying breaks even after 4 years — worth it if you stay 4+ years.
Living in Boone County
Cost of living, job market, crime rates, and moving cost estimates.
Moving Cost Estimator
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Frequently Asked Questions
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Compare rent & home prices by neighborhood
💵Rent Affordability in Boone CountySalary needed to afford rent here
🗺️All Cities in NESee how Boone County ranks statewide
⚖️Compare Boone CountySide-by-side rent & cost of living with any city
📋NE Tenant RightsDeposit limits, eviction laws & renters protections