Cost of Living in Hastings, NE

With a cost of living index of 71, Hastings, NE is one of the most affordable cities in the country. Living here is 29% cheaper than the national average and in line with the Nebraska state average. With a population of 25,005, Hastings is a mid-sized community that balances access to services with a more manageable cost of living compared to larger metros.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Hastings's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $858 (35% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $177,200 (42% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 2.9x the median household income — well within traditional affordability guidelines.

The median household income in Hastings is $61,202, which is 19% lower than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 17% 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 Hastings. The area sees an average annual temperature of 51.9°F, with summers averaging 75°F and winters around 29°F. Annual rainfall totals 26.4 inches spread over roughly 91 days. Cold winters mean higher heating bills, an important cost-of-living consideration.

Everyday prices in the Grand Island, NE (Metropolitan Statistical Area) metro area are generally below the national average. Out of 6 common items tracked by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 6 are priced lower than the US average. These real-world prices — from groceries to electricity — add up and should be factored into any cost of living comparison.

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.