RentData

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

HUD FY2027 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 8,983

Data review: HUD FY2027Sources: HUD, Zillow, Census, BLSMethodologyEditorial standardsReport a correction

Market Overview

Phelps County, NE has rental prices ranging from $734/month to $1,665/month in 2027, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $782/month — 44% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $65,988/year, spending $782/month on a 1-bedroom represents 14% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.

How Phelps County Compares

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

The Phelps County Rental Market

The Phelps County, NE area has a population of about 8,983 and 30% of households renting rather than owning. That is close to the US average renter share of ~34%.

Rent Trends

2-bedroom rents in Phelps 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 Phelps County, NE without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $31,280. The local median household income of $65,988 exceeds that threshold by $34,708, making Phelps County relatively accessible compared to local wages.

Economy & Jobs

Phelps County, NE has an unemployment rate of 2.4%, 1.5 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 FY2027
Studio
$734
Affordable
1 Bedroom
$782
Affordable
2 Bedrooms
$1,014
↑5.5% YoY
Affordable
3 Bedrooms
$1,370
Affordable
4 Bedrooms
$1,665
Average
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Is Phelps County, NE Affordable?

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

Affordability Index(30% income rule)

To rent a 2BR
$40,560/year
Local median income: $65,988
To buy a median home
—/year
US national median: $75,000
💡 Based on a 2BR rent of $1,014/month and 20% down on a — home at 7% rate.

Nearby Cities in NElargest metros in the state

CityStudio1BR2BR3BRHome 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 Phelps County?

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

Should I Rent or Buy?

Break-even analysis using real Phelps County data

$
Home Value
$350,000
2BR Rent
$1,014/mo
Mortgage Rate
7%
Monthly P&I
$1,863/mo
🏠 Buy

Buying breaks even after 4 years — worth it if you stay 4+ years.

Total monthly buy cost: $2,577/movs rent: $1,014/mo
Estimates only. Excludes HOA, PMI (if <20% down), closing costs, and tax benefits. Assumes 5% return on invested down payment.

Living in Phelps County

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

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Frequently Asked Questions

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🏘️Neighborhoods in Phelps County

Compare rent & home prices by neighborhood

💵Rent Affordability in Phelps County

Salary needed to afford rent here

🗺️All Cities in NE

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⚖️Compare Phelps County

Side-by-side rent & cost of living with any city

📋NE Tenant Rights

Deposit limits, eviction laws & renters protections