Average Rent in Madison County, NE↑ Rents rising 9.1% YoY🔺 13th priciest in NE
HUD FY2027 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 35,535
Market Overview
Madison County, NE has rental prices ranging from $753/month to $1,665/month in 2027, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $866/month — 38% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $64,637/year, spending $866/month on a 1-bedroom represents 16% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.
How Madison County Compares
With an average 2-bedroom rent of $1,082/month, Madison County ranks #13 most expensive of the 89 cities tracked in Nebraska — pricier than 62% of all US cities in our data.
The Madison County Rental Market
The Madison County, NE area has a population of about 35,535 and 33% of households renting rather than owning. That is close to the US average renter share of ~34%.
Rent Trends
2-bedroom rents in Madison County, NE have risen by $90/month (9.1%) over the past year, from $992 to $1,082. This rate of increase is significant and reflects strong rental demand and limited housing supply in the local market.
Affordability
To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Madison County, NE without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $34,640. The local median household income of $64,637 exceeds that threshold by $29,997, making Madison County relatively accessible compared to local wages.
Economy & Jobs
Madison County, NE has an unemployment rate of 2.9%, 1.0 percentage point 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 Madison 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 | — |
| Platte County | $825 | $871 | $1,139 | $1,491 | — |
Rent or Buy in Madison County?
Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.
Should I Rent or Buy?
Break-even analysis using real Madison County data
Buying breaks even after 3 years — worth it if you stay 3+ years.
Living in Madison 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 Madison CountySalary needed to afford rent here
🗺️All Cities in NESee how Madison County ranks statewide
⚖️Compare Madison CountySide-by-side rent & cost of living with any city
📋NE Tenant RightsDeposit limits, eviction laws & renters protections