Affordable

What Salary Do You Need to Live in Nelson?

To afford a 2-bedroom in Nelson, you need to earn at least $29,680/year based on estimated fair market rent data. The median household income here is $55,833, which means the typical resident is $26,153 above the threshold.

Census ACS Data Pop. 409

Salary Required by Bedroom Size

Bedroom	Monthly Rent	Monthly Income	Annual Salary	vs. Median
Studio	$519	$1,730	$20,760	$-35,073
1 Bedroom	$616	$2,053	$24,640	$-31,193
2 Bedroom BENCHMARK	$742	$2,473	$29,680	$-26,153
3 Bedroom	$905	$3,017	$36,200	$-19,633
4 Bedroom	$1,113	$3,710	$44,520	$-11,313

Affordability Breakdown

Where the required salary line crosses above Nelson's median income — housing becomes unaffordable for the typical resident.

Required Salary Median Income

Income vs. Rent Snapshot

Median Income

$55,833

Annual household

2BR Required Salary

$29,680

Under 30% rule

Income Gap

+$26,153

Surplus

Verdict

Affordable

Ratio: 15.9%

The 30% Rule Calculator

Enter your annual salary to see what you can afford in Nelson

Your Annual Salary

Pre-filled with Nelson's median household income

Max monthly rent you can afford$1,396

Studio

$519/mo

1 BR

$616/mo

2 BR

$742/mo

3 BR

$905/mo

4 BR

$1,113/mo

Your salary is $0 above the median income in Nelson.

Salary Comparison by Bedroom

Bars left of the marker line are affordable for Nelson's median earner. Bars to the right require above-median income.

Affordable Above Median Median Income

What This Means If You're Moving to Nelson

Nelson, Nebraska stands out as one of the more financially accessible housing markets in the state. The median household income of $55,833 significantly exceeds the $29,680 needed to comfortably afford a 2-bedroom at 30% of gross income — leaving a $26,153 annual surplus for savings, debt repayment, or lifestyle spending.

For remote workers or relocators evaluating Nelson, a studio at $519/month offers an even more aggressive savings rate. Even a 3-bedroom at $905/month remains accessible for dual-income households earning above $36,200.

To live comfortably with room for non-housing expenses, a break-even salary of approximately $44,520 would position you well — though many residents in Nelson manage on less given the favorable rent-to-income dynamics.

Economic Outlook

Local Job Market & Housing Dynamics

Affording rent isn't just about housing prices—it's heavily dependent on local employment opportunities and the strength of the job market in Nelson, Nebraska.

With a total population of 409, the city supports an active civilian workforce of 208 people. A strong employment base often indicates a stable economy, which is crucial when committing to a lease requiring a $29,680 annual salary. The ratio of employed residents to the total population provides insight into the local economic health and competition for both jobs and housing.

Employed Workforce

208

Active civilian employees in Nelson

Frequently Asked Questions About Renting in Nelson

What salary do I need to live in Nelson, Nebraska?

To afford a 2-bedroom in Nelson under the 30% rule, you need an annual salary of at least $29,680. The median household income in Nelson is $55,833.

Can I afford a 2-bedroom in Nelson on $55,833?

The affordability verdict for Nelson is "Affordable". The rent-to-income ratio is 15.9%, meaning median earners have a $26,153 surplus.

What is the average rent in Nelson compared to median income?

The median gross rent in Nelson is $616/month. With a median household income of $55,833, residents spend approximately 15.9% of their income on rent.

What salary do I need for a studio in Nelson?

A studio in Nelson rents for approximately $519/month. Under the 30% rule, you need an annual salary of $20,760 to afford this.

Is Nelson considered an affordable place to live?

Based on the surplus of $26,153 and an affordability verdict of "Affordable", Nelson is considered a affordable rental market when comparing the required 2-bedroom salary of $29,680 to the local median household income.

How Nelson Compares

Other cities in Nebraska with salary requirements