Average Rent in Otoe County, NE↑ Rents rising 8.2% YoY🔺 10th priciest in NE
HUD FY2027 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 16,075
Market Overview
Otoe County, NE has rental prices ranging from $805/month to $1,513/month in 2027, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $850/month — 39% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $81,430/year, spending $850/month on a 1-bedroom represents 13% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.
How Otoe County Compares
With an average 2-bedroom rent of $1,112/month, Otoe County ranks #10 most expensive of the 89 cities tracked in Nebraska — pricier than 66% of all US cities in our data.
The Otoe County Rental Market
The Otoe County, NE area has a population of about 16,075 and 20% 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 Otoe County, NE have risen by $84/month (8.2%) over the past year, from $1,028 to $1,112. 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 Otoe County, NE without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $34,000. The local median household income of $81,430 exceeds that threshold by $47,430, making Otoe County relatively accessible compared to local wages.
Economy & Jobs
Otoe County, NE has an unemployment rate of 3.1%, 0.8 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 Otoe 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 Otoe County?
Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.
Should I Rent or Buy?
Break-even analysis using real Otoe County data
Buying breaks even after 2 years — worth it if you stay 2+ years.
Living in Otoe 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 Otoe CountySalary needed to afford rent here
🗺️All Cities in NESee how Otoe County ranks statewide
⚖️Compare Otoe CountySide-by-side rent & cost of living with any city
📋NE Tenant RightsDeposit limits, eviction laws & renters protections