Nebraska
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Are you mulling over moving to Nebraska?

If you’d like to live in a state with one of the most beautiful sceneries in the country, lots of outdoor activities to enjoy, and with friendly people all around you, moving to Nebraska is perfect for you.

Nebraska’s low crime rates, affordable home, low cost of living, and no local income taxes in any city, makes it one of the top destinations for households in the United States.

The Cornhusker state’s low unemployment rate, robust economy, and lots of festivals make it appealing to people of all ages including millennials.

If you’re considering moving to Nebraska and wondering if the state is right for you or not, this guide contains all the information you need to know about the state to make the right decision.

Let’s get started.

Demographics

Nebraska Demographics

A quick look at the population and other demographics of Nebraska.

Male vs Female Population of Nebraska 2021

Male vs Female Population by Age Groups in Nebraska 2021

Population distribution by Ethnicity in Nebraska 2021

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Quick facts to know before moving to Nebraska

  • Nebraska averages 223 sunny days per year
  • The unemployment rate in Nebraska is among the lowest in the U.S.
  • Nebraska’s median home cost is $168,900
  • The average annual pay for the average job in Nebraska is $65,465
  • None of the cities in Nebraska has local income taxes
  • Property and violent crime rates in Nebraska are lower than the U.S. average
  • Nebraska healthcare cost is lower than the U.S. average

What’s the population of Nebraska?

The population of Nebraska is 1,951,996. The state stretches across 77,354 square miles making it the 16th largest in the country by size.

Since you’re considering moving to Nebraska, here’s a breakdown of the state’s population:

  • For every square mile of Nebraskan territory, there’s an average of 23.8 people
  • Nebraska is the 43rd ranked state in population density
  • One in three Nebraskans live in two key cities, Omaha and Lincoln
  • Omaha is the largest city in Nebraska with a population of 443,885 people
  • The median age in Nebraska is 37 making a state of millennials
  • About 50.12% of Nebraskans are female while 49.88% are males

How fast can you commute in Nebraska?

Nebraska’s average one-way commute time takes 18.4 minutes. The national average is 26.4 minutes. Longer commuting time means more stress. Shorter commuting time means less stress and a longer lifespan. That’s one of the key perks of moving to Nebraska.

Here’s how Nebraskans commute to work:

  • About 81.8% of Nebraskans drive their own car alone
  • Up to 9.2% of Nebraskans carpool with others
  • Around 4.3% of Nebraskans work from home
  • About 0.7% of Nebraskans take mass transit

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How is the weather like in Nebraska?

The weather is probably one of the things you’d like to think through before making up your mind about moving to Nebraska. We’ve highlighted key stats about the state’s weather to give you an idea of what to expect if you’re moving to Nebraska:

  • Nebraska summer high is around 87 degrees
  • January winter low in Nebraska is around 13 degrees
  • Nebraska averages 27 inches of rain in a year
  • Nebraska average 28 inches of snow in a year
  • Nebraska averages 223 sunny days per year
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Top 10 Reasons to move to Nebraska

Why are people moving to Nebraska? The Cornhusker state is attractive to many people for several reasons.

So, we made a list of the top ten reasons people are moving to Nebraska to give you an idea of why people are moving to the Cornhusker state:

  • The scenic views of Nebraska are stunning and remarkable

    Nebraska is exceptionally beautiful with towering dunes, wide-open plains, dramatic rock formations, and bustling cities. Here’s a list of some of the most photographed things in Nebraska

    • Chimney Rock
    • Carhenge
    • Cowboy Trail
    • Buffalo Bill Ranch
    • Fort Robinson State Park
    • Smith Falls State Park
    • Scotts Bluff National Monument
  • You’ll live among some of the nicest and friendliest people on earth

    Nebraska will surprise you with its friendly nature. You’ll find strangers smile at you even in cities. Be ready for them to start a conversation too.

  • The violent crime rate in Nebraska is low

    Nebraska records a very low crime rate and in most villages, violent crimes are mostly unheard of. Hate crimes and property crimes are reported much less than the national average.

  • You’ll enjoy big-city charm in a rural setting in Nebraska

    Nebraska is packed with little towns and the people you find on roads are friendly. And despite being smaller in size, these towns are highly developed with all big-city charm, making you feel a fusion of both urban and rural setup.

  • The unemployment rate in Nebraska is among the lowest in the U.S.

    Nebraska records one of the lowest unemployment rates in the country, 2.8%, which is much lower than the national average of 6%. This makes Nebraska a fantastic place for job hunters.

  • Nebraska is one of the most affordable states in the U.S.

    Nebraska is the second most affordable state in the US, including housing and healthcare. Groceries, utilities, and transportation are also much lower than the national average.

  • You’ll enjoy lots of festivals in Nebraska

    Nebraska is not just about never-ending prairies and scenic landscapes but it is also about unlimited festivals. In the warm summer, the state comes to life with a plethora of exciting festivals. From art, music, to food, and overall family fun, there is something to please everyone.

    Here’s a list of festivals to mark on your calendar:

    • Arbor Day
    • NEBRASKA land Days
    • Kool-Aid Days
    • Husker Harvest Days
    • Crane Watch Festival
    • Omaha September Fest
    • Brown County Fair
    • Willow tree Festival
    • AppleJack Festival
  • Nebraska is home to about a thousand museums

    The state is home to an abundance of educational and entertaining museums, ranging from smaller roadside stops to museums of national importance.

    Here’s a list of 10 top museums in Nebraska

    • The Durham Museum
    • Omaha Children’s Museum
    • Great Platte River Road Archway Monument
    • Joslyn Art Museum
    • Museum of the Fur Trade
    • Museum of Shadows
    • Museum of American Speed
    • University of Nebraska State Museum
    • Kregel Windmill Factory Museum
    • National Museum of Roller Skating
  • Some of the best zoos in the world are in Nebraska

    Probably there is no place like Nebraska where you’ll find yourself surrounded by zoos of all sizes. And each zoo is unique in its way.

    Here’s a list of 5 zoos you shouldn’t miss in Nebraska

    • Henry Doorly Zoo
    • Lincoln Children’s Zoo
    • Riverside Discovery Center
    • Schramm education Center
    • Columbus Aquatic Center
pros

Pros & Cons of Living in Nebraska

Before making up your mind about moving to Nebraska, take a look at the pros and cons of living in the state.

This will give you a better idea of what to expect if you’re moving to Nebraska:

Pros of living in Nebraska
  • Nebraska has a low population density
  • Affordable housing
  • There is no excise tax in Nebraska
  • Nebraska’s education is rated as top-quality
  • Nebraska’s roads are well maintained
  • Low cost of living
  • Higher-income potential
  • Delicious food
  • Family-friendly atmosphere
  • Lots of career opportunities
  • Home to Omaha, one of the best cities in the country
Cons of living in Nebraska
  • Nebraska is susceptible to natural disasters
  • You’ll have to put up with muggy summers and frigid winters
  • Nebraska is an extremely flat state
  • High rates of petty theft and car theft in some areas
  • You’ll have to put up with some weird laws
  • Nebraska is home to multiple nuclear power plants
  • You’ll have to put up with drought

Best Places to Live in Nebraska

Nebraska is home to several beautiful and livable cities, towns, and neighborhoods.

Moving to Nebraska means getting the chance to live in some of the best places in the state. We’ve made a list of the ten best places to live in the state if you’re considering moving to Nebraska. Check them out:

Rank City Population Unemployment Rate Home Value
1 La Vista 17,078 2.1% $154,300
2 Seward 7,176 1.6% $158,700
3 Papillion 20,423 2.5% $189,900
4 Gretna 5,037 0.3% $185,500
5 Kearney 33,464 2.8% $178,900
6 Ralston 7,321 3.5% $147,000
7 Columbus 23,195 3.2% $145,500
8 Gering 8,254 5.1% $138,200
9 Holdrege 5,455 0.6% $127,200
10 Blair 7,781 3.4% $148,500

Nebraska Cities Moving Guides

Nebraska Cities Moving Guides

What’s the cost of living in Nebraska?

The cost of living in Nebraska is rated 89.1. The United States average is 100. That means the cost of living in Nebraska is lower than the United States average.

Cost of living is most likely one of the key things you’ll have to consider before moving to Nebraska:

Cost of Living Nebraska United States
Overall 89.1 100
Grocery 94.9 100
Health 132.3 100
Housing 73.1 100
Median Home Cost $168,900 $231,200
Utilities 95 100
Transportation 76.1 100
Miscellaneous 98.6 100

Median House Price in Nebraska vs USA 2021

Median Rent Price in Nebraska vs USA 2021

Cost of Living by Categories in Nebraska vs USA 2021

How is the job market in Nebraska?

Nebraska is home to the headquarters of five Fortune 500 companies. The state’s economy is powered by several leading industries in the country including bioscience, renewable energy, advanced manufacturing, and information technology.

What’s the unemployment rate in Nebraska?

Nebraska’s unemployment rate is 2.8%. The national average is 6.0%. That means getting a job is fairly easy if you’re moving to Nebraska. Check the key stats of the state’s job market below:

Employment Information Nebraska United States
The income per Cap $$29,866 $31,177
Household Income $56,675 $57,652
Unemployment Rate 2.8 6.0
Recent Job Growth -1.79% -6.18%
Future Job Growth 28.22% 33.51%

What’s the median salary in Nebraska?

Moving to Nebraska could mean starting a new job with new pay. We’ve collated key data about the average pay in the state to give you an idea of what to expect in the job market. Check out the summary below:

  • The average annual pay for the average job in Nebraska is $65,465
  • The average hourly pay for the average job in Nebraska is $31.47
  • The average weekly pay for the average job in Nebraska is $1,259
  • The average monthly pay for the average job in Nebraska is $5,455
  • The minimum wage in Nebraska is $9 per hour

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Top Career Options in Nebraska

Moving to Nebraska could mean switching careers. If you’re interested in the top career options in the Cornhusker State, we’ve made a list of the top ten here. Check out the list below:

Rank Job Title AVERAGE SALARY ENTRY LEVEL SALARY # OF PEOPLE
1 General Internal Medicine Physicians $249,510 $140,380 240
2 Obstetricians And Gynecologists $242,850 $102,650 100
3 Family Medicine Physicians $233,480 $81,270 1,040
4 Dentists, All Other Specialists $223,850 $110,560 90
5 Podiatrists $207,140 $113,430 60
6 Chief Executives $203,810 $67,510 1,380
7 Nurse Anesthetists $179,450 $69,370 380
8 Physicians, All Other; And Ophthalmologists, Except Pediatric $177,080 $59,160 2,230
9 Pediatricians, General $168,500 $58,430 180
10 Law Teachers, Postsecondary $160,590 $65,260 100

What are the top industries in Nebraska?

Nebraska’s economy is propelled by several key industries. If you’re moving to Nebraska, you’ll most likely be interested in the top industries in the state:

  • Agribusiness and food processing
  • Biosciences
  • Advanced manufacturing
  • Renewable energy
  • Financial services
  • IT and data services
  • Health and medical services
  • Business services
  • Tourism and hospitality
  • Transportation and logistics

Number of Households by Income Level in Nebraska

Median Income in Nebraska vs USA

Unemployment Rate in Nebraska vs USA

Nebraska Taxes

How much will you end up paying in taxes if you’re moving to Nebraska? Let’s find out.

We’ve highlighted key stats about the state’s taxes since you’re considering moving to Nebraska:

  • Nebraska’s income tax rate is 2.46% - 6.84%
  • None of the cities in Nebraska has local income taxes
  • Nebraska’s sales tax is 5.50% - 8%
  • Nebraska’s property tax is 1.61% average effective rate
  • The gas tax in Nebraska is 33.20 cents per gallon of regular diesel and gasoline

Best things to do in Nebraska

Moving to Nebraska means getting the chance to enjoy the best of the most exciting things the state has to offer.

We’ve made a list of the best things to do in the Cornhusker state since you’re considering moving to Nebraska:

  • Visit the Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium

    The 130-acre zoo is one of the largest cat complexes in North America and has about 1,000 animals from all continents inside. The zoo also has one of the world’s largest nocturnal exhibits inside.

  • Tour the Old Market in Omaha

    A historic area in downtown Omaha, the Old Market retains its brick-paved streets from the turn of the 20th century, horse-drawn carriages, and covered sidewalks in some areas. The market and its surroundings house many restaurants, dining options, and entertainment venues. It is also packed with street performers, artists, and vendors.

  • Explore the Strategic Air and Space Museum, Ashland

    The 300,000-sq. ft. SAC Aerospace Museum displays aircraft and nuclear missiles belonging to the Cold War era. The museum also houses many space vehicles, including the Apollo Command Space Module.

  • Catch a glimpse of the Chimney Rock National Historic Site

    A landmark of the American West, Chimney Rock has formed millions of years ago and rises about 300 feet above the surrounding area. A National Historic Site, Chimney Rocks and its surroundings look the same even now as it was about a century ago.

  • Visit the Haymarket District in Lincoln

    The historic Haymarket District is a tourist attraction with many antique shops, art galleries, and restaurants. For its historic significance, the market is listed on the National Register of Historic Places

  • Tour the Scotts Bluff National Monument

    The 3,000-acre national park boasts of trail remnants, mixed-grass prairie, rugged badlands, towering bluffs, and riparian areas along the North Platte River. About 100,000 people explore the park every year.

  • See the Golden Spike Tower in North Platte

    The 8 storey-Golden Spike Tower has two observation decks to view the world’s largest rail yard, the Union Pacific’s Bailey Yard where about 10,000 railcars are sorted and sent on to their next destination. The tower also exhibits the history of the railroad as well as the orphan trains and the North Platte Canteen.

  • Explore the Indian Cave State Park

    The 3,400-acre Indian Cave State Park preserves a cave with prehistoric petroglyphs and the partially reconstructed village of St. Deroin. The carvings are believed to be thousands of years old. The park also has 22-mile biking and hiking trails, 16 miles of equestrian trails, camping, picnic facilities, fishing areas, and boating access to the Missouri River.

  • See a replica of England’s Stonehenge in Carhenge

    A replica of England’s Stonehenge, Carhenge is made of vintage American cars, 38 of them, rescued from nearby farms and dumps. Jim Reinders was the man behind Carhenge, who dedicated this to the memory of his father.

  • Enjoy a scenic driving tour of the Sandhills

    The 19,300-square mile Nebraska Sandhills is the largest dune formation in the western hemisphere and a drive through it, often as high as 400 feet, is the best way to appreciate the scenic beauty and wildlife of Nebraska.

  • Ride the Cowboy Trail

    The 195-mile Cowboy Trail was once the old Chicago & Northwestern rail route and is used for cycling, trailing, and horseback riding. Nebraska’s first recreational trail runs across the Outback area of Nebraska.

  • Visit the Archway

    The 300-meter Great Platte River Road Archway Monument or the Archway exhibits American history, especially Nebraska. The monument above Interstate 80 also has a 1950- style tea shop and souvenir stalls inside.

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How safe is Nebraska?

Moving to Nebraska means living in a state where property and violent crime rates are lower than the national average. Here’s a simple analysis of the crime rate in the state since you’re considering moving to Nebraska:

  • The crime rate in Nebraska is rated 18.8. The national average is 22.7
  • The property crime rate in Nebraska is rated 34.2. The national average is 35.4
  • Both the property and violent crime rates in Nebraska are lower than the U.S. average

10 safest cities in Nebraska

If you’re moving to Nebraska, you’ll most likely be interested in living in the safest cities in the state. We’ve made a list of the top 10 safest cities in the state, to help you narrow down your house-hunting options. Check out the list below before moving to Nebraska:

Rank City Population Violent Crimes Per 100k Property Crimes Per 100k
1 Seward, NE 7,209 41 984
2 Holdrege, NE 5,432 92 1,196
3 La Vista, NE 17,177 93 1,571
4 Lexington, NE 9,996 100 1,410
5 Blair, NE 8,103 98 1,579
6 Columbus, NE 23,257 111 1,535
7 Schuyler, NE 6,210 193 611
8 Gering, NE 8,291 168 1,362
9 Alliance, NE 8,122 110 1,600
10 Chadron, NE 5,621 160 1,672

Best Schools & Universities in Nebraska

Since you’re considering moving to Nebraska, we’ve made a list of the best schools in the state to help you get started.

Moving to Nebraska means getting the chance to attend any of the best universities and colleges in the state. We’ve made a list of the top ten higher institutions in the state to help you get started.

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