Average Rent in Hooker County, NE↑ Rents rising 4.0% YoY🔻 2nd cheapest in NE
HUD FY2025 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 613
Market Overview
Hooker County, NE has rental prices ranging from $622/month to $1,204/month in 2025, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $798/month — 43% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $45,854/year, spending $798/month on a 1-bedroom represents 21% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.
How Hooker County Compares
With an average 2-bedroom rent of $907/month, Hooker County ranks #87 most expensive of the 88 cities tracked in Nebraska — more affordable than 71% of all US cities in our data.
The Hooker County Rental Market
The Hooker County, NE area has a population of about 613 and 40% of households renting rather than owning. That renter share runs above the US average of ~34%, pointing to a competitive rental market where vacancies clear quickly and rents are less negotiable.
Rent Trends
2-bedroom rents in Hooker County, NE have risen by $35/month (4.0%) over the past year, from $872 to $907. This modest growth is consistent with broader inflationary trends seen across US rental markets.
Affordability
To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Hooker County, NE without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $31,920. The local median household income of $45,854 exceeds that threshold by $13,934, making Hooker County relatively accessible compared to local wages.
Economy & Jobs
Hooker County, NE has an unemployment rate of 5.1%, 1.2 percentage points above the national average of 3.9%. A higher unemployment rate can moderate rental demand over time, which may help keep rent growth in check compared to tighter job markets.
Fair Market Rents
HUD FY2025Is Hooker 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 | $815 | $910 | $1,125 | $1,576 | — |
| Hall County | $770 | $911 | $1,123 | $1,426 | — |
| Buffalo County | $651 | $778 | $941 | $1,254 | — |
| Dodge County | $690 | $767 | $1,006 | $1,212 | — |
| Scotts Bluff County | $645 | $759 | $940 | $1,317 | — |
| Madison County | $636 | $707 | $928 | $1,192 | — |
Rent or Buy in Hooker County?
Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.
Should I Rent or Buy?
Break-even analysis using real Hooker County data
Renting appears to be the better financial choice for this scenario.
Living in Hooker 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 Hooker CountySalary needed to afford rent here
🗺️All Cities in NESee how Hooker County ranks statewide
⚖️Compare Hooker CountySide-by-side rent & cost of living with any city
📋NE Tenant RightsDeposit limits, eviction laws & renters protections