Chadron, NE vs Scottsbluff, NE

Chadron, NE and Scottsbluff, NE have a very similar cost of living, with only a 4.6% difference in their overall index. Chadron scores 76 while Scottsbluff scores 73 on the cost of living index, where 100 represents the national average. The day-to-day expenses for residents in both cities are comparable, though differences emerge when looking at specific categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Chadron is $1,044/month compared to $966/month in Scottsbluff — a 8% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Scottsbluff is more affordable at $141,300 median vs $153,300.

Median household income in Chadron is $54,026 compared to $53,448 in Scottsbluff (+1.1%). Chadron does offer higher incomes, but the salary premium barely offsets the higher cost of living, leaving residents with a tighter budget. Looking at affordability, residents of Chadron spend roughly 23.2% of their income on rent, more than the 21.7% in Scottsbluff.

Climate-wise, both cities share similar average temperatures (48.3°F vs 49.9°F). Scottsbluff receives more rainfall at 15.7" per year compared to 15.2" in Chadron.