Average Rent in Hamilton County, NE↓ Rents falling 23.6% YoY🔻 Cheapest in NE
HUD FY2021 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 9,438
Market Overview
Hamilton County, NE has rental prices ranging from $530/month to $1,271/month in 2021, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $557/month — 60% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $79,884/year, spending $557/month on a 1-bedroom represents 8% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.
How Hamilton County Compares
With an average 2-bedroom rent of $734/month, Hamilton County ranks #89 most expensive of the 89 cities tracked in Nebraska — more affordable than 99% of all US cities in our data.
The Hamilton County Rental Market
The Hamilton County, NE area has a population of about 9,438 and 17% 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 Hamilton County, NE have fallen by $227/month (23.6%) over the past year, from $961 to $734. This rate of decrease is significant and reflects softening demand or increased inventory in the local market.
Affordability
To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Hamilton County, NE without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $22,280. The local median household income of $79,884 exceeds that threshold by $57,604, making Hamilton County relatively accessible compared to local wages.
Economy & Jobs
Hamilton 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 FY2021Is Hamilton 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 Hamilton County?
Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.
Should I Rent or Buy?
Break-even analysis using real Hamilton County data
Renting appears to be the better financial choice for this scenario.
Living in Hamilton County
Cost of living, job market, crime rates, and moving cost estimates.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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💵Rent Affordability in Hamilton CountySalary needed to afford rent here
🗺️All Cities in NESee how Hamilton County ranks statewide
⚖️Compare Hamilton CountySide-by-side rent & cost of living with any city
📋NE Tenant RightsDeposit limits, eviction laws & renters protections