Hayes Center, NE
Population 258 · Nebraska
About Hayes Center, NE
Hayes Center is a small community located in Nebraska with a population of 258 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $70,208 per year, which is 7% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 54.1 years is notably older the US median age of 38.9 years, suggesting a more established community with a higher proportion of long-term residents.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Hayes Center features a median home value of $83,300, which is 66% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Hayes Center one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $775, 33% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 154 total housing units, 74% are owner-occupied (76 units) and 26% are renter-occupied (27 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Hayes Center shows an unemployment rate of 0.7%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 19.8%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Hayes Center have an average one-way commute time of 23.9 minutes.
Education & Demographics
16.3% of Hayes Center residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The lower educational attainment rate may reflect the area's industry mix, with more employment in trades, manufacturing, or agricultural sectors. The community's demographic composition includes 8.9% White, 1.9% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 6.2% Asian residents, with 10.5% of the population being foreign-born.
How Hayes Center Ranks in Nebraska
Cost of Living in Hayes Center, NE
Compared to national averages, Hayes Center has a median household income of $70,208 (7% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $83,300, which is 66% below the national median. Monthly rent at $775 is 33% below the US average of $1,163. Within Nebraska, Hayes Center's income is 7% above the state average of $65,895, and home values are 34% below the state median of $125,824.
Why Live in Hayes Center, NE?
Hayes Center offers affordable housing with a median home value of $83,300, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $775/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 0.7%. Additionally, the city features short commute times averaging just 23.9 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($70,208) that falls below the national average. However, Hayes Center’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Hayes Center has a population of 258 with a median age of 54.1 years. Compare Hayes Center with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Nebraska.
Similar Cities Near Hayes Center
Cities in Nebraska with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gresham | 257 | $42,500 | $68,300 | Compare |
| Marquette | 257 | $62,083 | $107,700 | Compare |
| Woodland Hills | 256 | $134,022 | $419,400 | Compare |
| Douglas | 261 | $82,500 | $111,700 | Compare |
| Gurley | 253 | $59,313 | $75,400 | Compare |
| Madrid | 253 | $71,750 | $101,300 | Compare |
| North Loup | 263 | $49,141 | $55,000 | Compare |
| Rosalie | 252 | $80,000 | $47,900 | 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.
Compare Hayes Center With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Hayes Center
What is the population of Hayes Center, NE?
The population of Hayes Center, NE is 258 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small community in Nebraska.
What is the median household income in Hayes Center?
The median household income in Hayes Center, NE is $70,208 per year, which is 7% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Hayes Center?
The median home value in Hayes Center, NE is $83,300, which is 66% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Hayes Center?
The median monthly rent in Hayes Center, NE is $775, which is 33% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Hayes Center?
The unemployment rate in Hayes Center, NE is 0.7%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Hayes Center, NE a good place to live?
Hayes Center offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 258 and a median age of 54.1, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Hayes Center, NE?
16.3% of residents in Hayes Center aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The educational profile reflects the area's industry mix and employment landscape.
What is the cost of living in Hayes Center?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Hayes Center, NE: median home value is $83,300 (66% below national), median rent is $775/month, and median household income is $70,208. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.2x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Hayes Center?
The poverty rate in Hayes Center, NE is 19.8%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. Residents and prospective movers should be aware of the economic challenges facing parts of this community.
How diverse is Hayes Center, NE?
Hayes Center's population is 8.9% White, 1.9% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 6.2% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 10.5% of residents are foreign-born.