A view of the downtown Omaha skyline from the lake at the new Heartland of America Park. Best-in-class parks, a strong economy, good schools and quality health care make Omaha, NE, one of the best places to live in the U.S.
iStock/Davel5957

Omaha, NEBest Places To Live in the U.S. in 2023

Midwestern charm and a vibrant city vibe come together in Omaha. The city is known for its thriving arts and culture scene, world-class culinary offerings, strong job market, affordable housing and, of course, the steaks!

Omaha, NE, Is One of the Best Cities To Live in America

With best-in-class parks, a strong economy, good schools and quality health care, Omaha, NE, is easily one of the best places to live in the U.S. 

A low cost of living and high quality of life make Omaha a magnet for young professionals and families looking to put down roots. Exciting new developments are energizing the city, like the $325 million RiverFront transformation that’s bringing cool new parks to the area. The Gene Leahy Mall in the heart of downtown has a playground, interactive water features, a dog park, and spaces for outdoor movie nights and pop-up yoga classes. The RiverFront’s two other parks, Heartland of America Park and Lewis and Clark Landing, are coming in the summer of 2023 and will have an Urban Beach, a skate ribbon, bocce courts, playgrounds, an amphitheater and more. Residents are also excited about the forthcoming Kiewit Luminarium, an interactive museum that’s all about science, technology, engineering and math (STEM).

Omaha’s economy is rock steady, too, with 45,000 companies, including many Fortune 500s, that are based in Greater Omaha. The world-renowned University of Nebraska Medical Center is a top health care employer, and the region is also home to medical technology, agribusiness and financial services enterprises, plus 65 defense-related companies and Offutt Air Force Base.

Omaha, NE Quality of Life LivScore

0 1000 1000 765

Omaha, NE Top Categories

  • Housing & Cost of Living

  • Economy

  • Transportation

Omaha ranks highest for housing, economy and transportation.

Weather and Outdoor Activities in Omaha, NE

What is the weather like in Omaha?

This Midwestern city gets all four seasons, with warm summers and snowy winters. The average highs and lows are 86°F and 64°F (summer) and 35°F and 16°F (winter).

Does Omaha get a lot of snow?

The average annual snowfall in Omaha is 30 inches, and December, January and February typically receive the highest averages of snow.

Does Omaha get a lot of rain? 

The average annual rainfall in Omaha is 31 inches, and the city averages 87 rainy days per year. 

How many sunny days does Omaha get?

Omaha averages 214 sunny days a year.

What are some things to do outside in Omaha?

All aboard for a unique camping trip close to home? Two Rivers State Recreation Area has 10 Union Pacific cabooses that have been restored and remodeled to make for a unique overnight stay. In addition, the park is a popular spot to fish. 

Omaha Weather

214 days

Average Annual Sun

311 inches

Average Annual Rain

30 inches

Average Annual Snow

Things To Do in Omaha, NE

What makes Omaha special?

The city has a creative and innovative spirit. Several Fortune 500 companies are headquartered in Omaha, including Berkshire Hathaway, Union Pacific Railroad, Mutual of Omaha Insurance and Kiewit Corporation.

What are some fun things to do with kids in Omaha?

Visit the monkeys, giraffes, sea lions and other animals at Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium. Kids can also ride the zoo’s train and carousel.

Where do locals shop in Omaha?

The Bookworm is a 6,000-square-foot, independently-owned store. Booksellers keep you up-to-date with what books they’re currently loving with a “We’re Reading” website feature. 

Where should you have dinner with friends in Omaha? 

You’re faced with impossibly difficult choices at Kinaara, a beloved Indian restaurant: Famed Butter Chicken or Grandma’s Fish and Mango Curry? Of course, this is the kind of place you’ll want to go with friends who are keen on sharing dishes! But definitely start with some chili-garlic naan.

Shops, bars and restaurants line Howard Street in the historic Old Market district in Omaha, NE. With a low cost of living and high quality of life, Omaha is a magnet for young professionals and families looking to put down roots.
Alamy/Ian Dagnall
Shops, bars and restaurants line Howard Street in the historic Old Market district in Omaha, NE. With a low cost of living and high quality of life, Omaha is a magnet for young professionals and families looking to put down roots.

The Local and State Economy in Omaha, NE

What are the three largest industries in Omaha?

Military, health care and transportation are industries with a significant presence in Omaha. As a result, Omaha is known as “Silicon Prairie.” It’s home to a number of young tech startups and more than half a dozen Fortune 500 companies, including Berkshire Hathaway, Mutual of Omaha and Union Pacific Railroad. 

What is the sales tax rate in Omaha?

In 2023, the sales tax rate in Omaha is 7%. 

Does Nebraska have a state income tax?

Yes, Nebraska has a state income tax. 

Who are the major health care providers in Omaha?

Nebraska Medicine-Nebraska Medical Center, Nebraska Methodist Hospital and several CHI Health locations all keep Omaha residents in good health. 

What colleges and universities are in Omaha?

There are several colleges and universities in Omaha, NE, including Creighton University and the University of Nebraska-Omaha. 

Quick Facts About Omaha, NE

Median Household Income
$65,798
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Median Home Value
$226,234
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Average State Property Tax
$1,676
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Total Population
492,423
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Median Rent/Mo.
$868
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Average Commute
17.77 minutes
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With a strong economy, good schools and quality health care, Omaha is one of the best places to live in the U.S. Start with a visit to Omaha, as visiting before you move is a great way to learn about a city. Also, check out these other affordable places to live in the Midwest.

Continue Reading Best Places To Live in the US in 2023

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