Cost of Living in Chadron, NE

With a cost of living index of 76, Chadron, NE is a very affordable place to live. Living here is 24% cheaper than the national average and 4% above the Nebraska state average of 72. Chadron is a smaller community of 5,207 residents, where everyday costs can differ substantially from nearby larger cities.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Chadron's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $1,044 (21% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $153,300 (50% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 2.8x the median household income — well within traditional affordability guidelines.

The median household income in Chadron is $54,026, which is 28% lower than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 23% of household income on rent. This is a comfortable ratio, well below the 30% threshold that financial experts recommend as a maximum. Lower incomes here are balanced by the significantly lower cost of living, stretching each dollar further.

Climate is another factor for anyone considering a move to Chadron. The area sees an average annual temperature of 48.3°F, with summers averaging 72°F and winters around 26°F. Annual rainfall totals 15.2 inches spread over roughly 77 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.