Cost of Living in Nelson, NE

With a cost of living index of 57, Nelson, NE is one of the most affordable cities in the country. Living here is 43% cheaper than the national average and 16% below the Nebraska state average of 72. Nelson is a small community of 478 residents.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Nelson's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $620 (53% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $72,900 (76% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 1.3x the median household income — well within traditional affordability guidelines.

The median household income in Nelson is $54,408, which is 28% lower than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 14% 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 Nelson. 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.

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.