Cost of Living in Brainard, NE

With a cost of living index of 66, Brainard, NE is one of the most affordable cities in the country. Living here is 34% cheaper than the national average and 6% below the Nebraska state average of 72. Brainard is a small community of 279 residents.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Brainard's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $700 (47% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $158,700 (48% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 2.2x the median household income — well within traditional affordability guidelines.

The median household income in Brainard is $73,750, which is 2% lower than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 11% of household income on rent. This is a comfortable ratio, well below the 30% threshold that financial experts recommend as a maximum.

Climate is another factor for anyone considering a move to Brainard. The area sees an average annual temperature of 52.3°F, with summers averaging 76°F and winters around 28°F. Annual rainfall totals 29.3 inches spread over roughly 95 days. Cold winters mean higher heating bills, an important cost-of-living consideration.

Data sources: US Census Bureau (ACS 2023), Zillow Home Values, HUD Fair Market Rents, BEA Regional Price Parities, BLS Average Prices, and NOAA Climate Normals. Updated monthly.