Average Rent in Merrick County, NE↑ Rents rising 5.5% YoY🔻 2nd cheapest in NE

Merrick County, NE has rental prices ranging from $754/month to $1,655/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 $62,849/year, spending $775/month on a 1-bedroom represents 15% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.

How Merrick County Compares

With an average 2-bedroom rent of $1,014/month, Merrick County ranks #88 most expensive of the 89 cities tracked in Nebraska — more affordable than 63% of all US cities in our data.

The Merrick County Rental Market

The Merrick County, NE area has a population of about 7,696 and 19% 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 Merrick 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 Merrick 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 $62,849 exceeds that threshold by $31,849, making Merrick County relatively accessible compared to local wages.

Economy & Jobs

Merrick County, NE has an unemployment rate of 2.3%, 1.6 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.

Is Merrick County, NE Affordable?

Income needed to rent or buy, price history, and how this city compares to nearby metros.

Rent or Buy in Merrick County?

Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.

Living in Merrick County

Cost of living, job market, crime rates, and moving cost estimates.