Kearney, NE

Very Low · 70

Nebraska · Population 34,024 · Updated March 2026

$922
Median Rent / Month
$69,790
Median Income
$235,800
Median Home Value
$1,037
Owner Costs / Month

Affordability

How far your income goes in Kearney

15.9%
Rent-to-Income Ratio
Affordable
Rent takes less than 25% of median income — considered affordable by HUD standards.

Tax Burden in Nebraska

State-level tax rates that affect your costs

6.64%
Income Tax (Top Rate)
5.5%
Sales Tax
1.73%
Property Tax Rate

Estimated Annual Costs

$11,064
Annual Rent
$4,634
State Income Tax
$4,079
Property Tax (est.)

Cost of Living Overview

Kearney is significantly cheaper than the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and families. With a cost index of 70 (where 100 equals the national median), Kearney residents can expect to pay median rent of $922/month while earning a median household income of $69,790/year.

The median home value in Kearney, NE is $235,800, with typical monthly owner costs around $1,037 including mortgage, insurance, and taxes. The median rent-to-income ratio of 15.9% means housing is relatively affordable here — well below the 30% threshold that HUD considers cost-burdened.

Nebraska has a moderate income tax rate of 6.64%. Combined with a 5.5% sales tax rate and 1.73% effective property tax rate, the overall tax environment is a factor in the total cost of living in Kearney.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about living costs in Kearney

What is the cost of living in Kearney, NE?
The cost of living index in Kearney, NE is 70 (US average = 100). Median monthly rent is $922, median household income is $69,790/year, and the median home value is $235,800.
Is Kearney, NE affordable?
Yes, Kearney is more affordable than the national average with a cost index of 70. The rent-to-income ratio is 15.9%—below the 30%% threshold considered affordable by HUD.
What is the average rent in Kearney, NE?
The median gross rent in Kearney, NE is $922 per month according to the US Census Bureau ACS 2023 data. Annual rent costs approximately $11,064.
What is the median household income in Kearney?
The median household income in Kearney, NE is $69,790 per year. This compares to the national median of approximately $80,000.
What are the taxes like in Nebraska?
Nebraska has a top income tax rate of 6.64%, a sales tax of 5.5%, and an effective property tax rate of 1.73%.