Average Rent in Thomas County, NE↑ Rents rising 4.0% YoY🔻 2nd cheapest in NE
HUD FY2025 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 626
Market Overview
Thomas County, NE has rental prices ranging from $622/month to $1,204/month in 2025, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $691/month — 51% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $72,708/year, spending $691/month on a 1-bedroom represents 11% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.
How Thomas County Compares
With an average 2-bedroom rent of $907/month, Thomas County ranks #87 most expensive of the 88 cities tracked in Nebraska — more affordable than 71% of all US cities in our data.
The Thomas County Rental Market
The Thomas County, NE area has a population of about 626 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 Thomas County, NE have risen by $35/month (4.0%) over the past year, from $872 to $907. This modest growth is consistent with broader inflationary trends seen across US rental markets.
Affordability
To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Thomas County, NE without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $27,640. The local median household income of $72,708 exceeds that threshold by $45,068, making Thomas County relatively accessible compared to local wages.
Economy & Jobs
Thomas County, NE has an unemployment rate of 4.7%, 0.8 percentage points above the national average of 3.9%. A higher unemployment rate can moderate rental demand over time, which may help keep rent growth in check compared to tighter job markets.
Fair Market Rents
HUD FY2025Is Thomas 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 Thomas County?
Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.
Should I Rent or Buy?
Break-even analysis using real Thomas County data
Renting appears to be the better financial choice for this scenario.
Living in Thomas 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 Thomas CountySalary needed to afford rent here
🗺️All Cities in NESee how Thomas County ranks statewide
⚖️Compare Thomas CountySide-by-side rent & cost of living with any city
📋NE Tenant RightsDeposit limits, eviction laws & renters protections