Average Rent in Seward County, NE↑ Rents rising 3.5% YoY🔺 9th priciest in NE
HUD FY2025 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 17,636
Market Overview
Seward County, NE has rental prices ranging from $686/month to $1,477/month in 2025, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $718/month — 49% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $81,122/year, spending $718/month on a 1-bedroom represents 11% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.
How Seward County Compares
With an average 2-bedroom rent of $942/month, Seward County ranks #9 most expensive of the 88 cities tracked in Nebraska — pricier than 54% of all US cities in our data.
The Seward County Rental Market
The Seward County, NE area has a population of about 17,636 and 28% 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 Seward County, NE have risen by $32/month (3.5%) over the past year, from $910 to $942. This modest growth is consistent with broader inflationary trends seen across US rental markets.
Affordability
To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Seward County, NE without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $28,720. The local median household income of $81,122 exceeds that threshold by $52,402, making Seward County relatively accessible compared to local wages.
Economy & Jobs
Seward County, NE has an unemployment rate of 2.8%, 1.1 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 FY2025Is Seward 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 Seward County?
Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.
Should I Rent or Buy?
Break-even analysis using real Seward County data
Buying breaks even after 5 years — worth it if you stay 5+ years.
Living in Seward County
Cost of living, job market, crime rates, and moving cost estimates.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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Compare rent & home prices by neighborhood
💵Rent Affordability in Seward CountySalary needed to afford rent here
🗺️All Cities in NESee how Seward County ranks statewide
⚖️Compare Seward CountySide-by-side rent & cost of living with any city
📋NE Tenant RightsDeposit limits, eviction laws & renters protections