Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Hayes Center, NE
Considering a move to Hayes Center, NE? This small rural community of 214 offers an affordable lifestyle, with median home values at $70,000 and average rents around $610—far below national averages. You'll enjoy low crime rates (just 85 violent crimes per 100K), short 13-minute commutes, and a sunny climate with 67% sunny days. The town features a close-knit atmosphere, local public schools with low student-teacher ratios, and easy access to regional healthcare and recreation.
Demographics - Hayes Center, NE
Demographics - Hayes Center, NE
Hayes Center is a small rural town with a population of 214, a median age of 48.2, and a predominantly White community. Residents enjoy a low population density and a balanced gender ratio, creating a quiet and close-knit environment. A small percentage of non-English speakers adds modest diversity to the area.
Population:
214
Density:
400 per sq mi
Median Age:
48.2
Gender Ratio:
104 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
3.2%

Ethnic Composition
White:
98.1%
Black:
0.0%
Asian:
0.0%
Others:
1.9%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Hayes Center, NE?
The cost of living in Hayes Center is significantly below the national average, with a median home value of $70,000 and average rent of $610. Utilities and groceries are also affordable, making it an attractive option for those seeking budget-friendly rural living. State tax rates are moderate, and overall expenses are manageable for most households.
Median House Value:
$70,000
Gross Rent:
$610
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$105
Auto Insurance:
$1,420
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$850
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$380
State Taxes:
Low:
2.46%
|
High:
6.84%
Cost Of Living Index:
81.6
Grocery:
92.1
Housing:
53.2
Utilities:
92.8
Transportation:
75.6
Health Care:
93.4
Miscellaneous:
80.2
Crime
Is Hayes Center, NE a safe place to live?
Hayes Center offers a safe environment, with just 85 violent crimes and 580 property crimes per 100,000 residents. The chances of experiencing a violent crime are about 1 in 1,176, contributing to the community's reputation for low crime and peace of mind. Residents enjoy a secure, small-town atmosphere ideal for families and retirees.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
85
Property Crimes Per 100k:
580
Crime Index:
665
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 1,176
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 369
Weather
What is the weather like in Hayes Center, NE year-round?
The climate in Hayes Center features cold winters with lows around 15°F, warm summers reaching up to 89°F, and mild spring and fall seasons. The area receives about 23.1 inches of rainfall annually and experiences sunshine nearly 67% of the year. These conditions provide a pleasant balance for outdoor activities throughout the seasons.

Winter
Min:
15°F
Max:
38°F

Spring
Min:
35°F
Max:
67°F

Summer
Min:
60°F
Max:
89°F

Fall
Min:
40°F
Max:
72°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
23.1 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
67%
Neighbors
Local residents in Hayes Center typically have a median household income of $48,400 and a family income of $55,500, with a poverty rate of 10.8%. The community boasts a high high-school graduation rate and enjoys short average commutes of just over 13 minutes. Public transportation is not used, reflecting the town’s rural, self-reliant lifestyle.
Median Income:
$36,500
Household Income:
$48,400
Family Income:
$55,500
Per Capita Income:
$27,900
Income Male:
$34,300
Income Female:
$27,800
Poverty Rate:
10.8%
Non English Speakers:
3.2%
Rent:
$610
Unemployment Rate:
3.2%
Public Transport Usage:
0%
Commute Time:
13.2 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
89.7%
Bachelors or More:
18.4%
Education
How are the schools in Hayes Center, NE?
Education in Hayes Center is centered around Hayes Center Public Schools, which serves about 110 students and boasts a low student-teacher ratio of 7.9. There are no private schools in town, but higher education is available nearby at Mid-Plains Community College in North Platte, 49 miles away. The local school system provides a personalized, community-focused learning environment.

Public Schools
Name:
Hayes Center Public Schools
Street:
501 Troth St
Phone:
308-286-5600
Students:
110
Student Teacher Ratio:
7.9

Colleges
Name:
Mid-Plains Community College
City:
North Platte
State:
NE
Distance:
49 miles
Students:
3,000
Healthcare
Hayes Center residents have access to major hospitals in nearby towns, including Great Plains Health and Community Hospital, both offering emergency services. The area has 1.7 physicians per 1,000 people and nearly 90% of residents are covered by health insurance. Regional healthcare meets most needs, supporting both families and seniors.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Great Plains Health
Address:
601 W Leota St, North Platte, NE 69101
Phone:
(308) 568-8000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Community Hospital
Address:
1301 E H St, McCook, NE 69001
Phone:
(308) 344-2650
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.7
Health Insurance Coverage:
89.6%
Health Care Index:
69.8
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Hayes Center, NE?
The housing market in Hayes Center is highly affordable, with a median home price of $70,000 and average rent for a two-bedroom apartment at $610. Homeownership is common, with 78% of residents owning their homes, and the market has shown steady appreciation. Low vacancy and foreclosure rates indicate a stable housing environment.
Median Home Price:
$70,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$610
Owner Occupied Rate:
78.0%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.9%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
5.1%
New Construction Rate:
0.7%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.2%
DMV Information
Motor vehicle services for Hayes Center are provided by the Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles, located in Lincoln, NE. Residents can access licensing, registration, and other DMV services in person, by phone, or online. The DMV offers convenient resources for new drivers and vehicle owners.
State:
Nebraska
Department:
Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
301 Centennial Mall South, Lincoln, NE 68509
Phone:
402-471-3985
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.