Clay Center, NE
Population 750 · Nebraska
About Clay Center, NE
Clay Center is a small community in Nebraska with a population of 750 residents. The median household income is $75,833 per year, which is above the national average. The median age in Clay Center is 39.7 years.
Housing in Clay Center has a median home value of $148,300 and median monthly rent of $620. Of the 346 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 256 owner-occupied and 56 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Clay Center is 1.0% and the poverty rate is 2.9%. 20.6% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 20.9 minutes.
How Clay Center Ranks in Nebraska
Cost of Living in Clay Center, NE
Compared to national averages, Clay Center has a median household income of $75,833 (1% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $148,300, which is 39% below the national median. Monthly rent at $620 is 47% below the US average of $1,163. Within Nebraska, Clay Center's income is 15% above the state average of $65,895, and home values are 18% above the state median of $125,824.
Why Live in Clay Center, NE?
Clay Center offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $75,833, well above the national average, and affordable housing with a median home value of $148,300, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $620/month. Additionally, the city features a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 1.0%, and a low poverty rate of 2.9%, better than the national average, and short commute times averaging just 20.9 minutes.
Clay Center has a population of 750 with a median age of 39.7 years. Compare Clay Center with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Nebraska.
Similar Cities Near Clay Center
Cities in Nebraska with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lyons | 751 | $38,333 | $101,100 | Compare |
| Axtell | 744 | $64,196 | $192,400 | Compare |
| Hemingford | 744 | $64,356 | $86,400 | Compare |
| Cedar Bluffs | 760 | $82,031 | $148,200 | Compare |
| McCool Junction | 740 | $115,833 | $138,500 | Compare |
| Curtis | 761 | $52,500 | $144,400 | Compare |
| Boys Town | 763 | $72,000 | $0 | Compare |
| Elmwood | 765 | $81,250 | $176,600 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Nebraska
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Clay Center
What is the population of Clay Center, NE?
The population of Clay Center, NE is 750 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Clay Center?
The median household income in Clay Center, NE is $75,833 per year.
What is the median home value in Clay Center?
The median home value in Clay Center, NE is $148,300.
What is the average rent in Clay Center?
The median monthly rent in Clay Center, NE is $620.
What is the unemployment rate in Clay Center?
The unemployment rate in Clay Center, NE is 1.0%.