Cost of Living in Imperial, NE

With a cost of living index of 78, Imperial, NE is a very affordable place to live. Living here is 22% cheaper than the national average and 6% above the Nebraska state average of 72. Imperial is a small community of 2,182 residents.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Imperial's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $1,046 (21% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $176,700 (42% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 2.5x the median household income — well within traditional affordability guidelines.

The median household income in Imperial is $71,667, which is 5% lower than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 18% 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 Imperial. The area sees an average annual temperature of 51.3°F, with summers averaging 74°F and winters around 30°F. Annual rainfall totals 17.5 inches spread over roughly 81 days.

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.