Cost of Living in Dalton, NE

With a cost of living index of 66, Dalton, NE is one of the most affordable cities in the country. Living here is 34% cheaper than the national average and 7% below the Nebraska state average of 72. Dalton is a small community of 470 residents.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Dalton's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $870 (34% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $89,500 (71% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 1.4x the median household income — well within traditional affordability guidelines.

The median household income in Dalton is $65,000, which is 14% lower than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 16% 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 Dalton. The area sees an average annual temperature of 48.5°F, with summers averaging 71°F and winters around 28°F. Annual rainfall totals 15.8 inches spread over roughly 84 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.