Lincoln, NEBest Places To Live in the U.S. in 2023
As the capital of Nebraska, Lincoln is an epicenter with top-rated schools, plentiful parks and green spaces, and friendly residents with a strong sense of community pride. Lincoln blends small-town charm and big-city amenities and is a welcoming, inclusive city.
Lincoln, NE, Is One of the Best Cities To Live in America
All are welcome in Lincoln, NE, from college students to retirees. Lincoln is a refugee resettlement city, and this is a place with a heartfelt commitment to helping its immigrant and refugee community thrive.
As one of the best places to live in the U.S., the capital of Nebraska offers a low cost of living and a high quality of life with access to more than 120 parks, average commute times under 20 minutes and a whole lot of hometown pride (Go, Huskers!). At the center of it all is The Railyard, an entertainment district with restaurants and bars. The Railyard is across from Pinnacle Bank Arena, a 15,500 arena that hosts concerts and sporting events.
In recent years, Lincoln has become known for both its growing craft beer and foodie scenes. The Haymarket District, a revitalized area of town where the past meets the present, houses various restaurants, boutiques and galleries. Stretch your legs at Holmes Lake, a 110-acre reservoir, where visitors can fish, bike and walk along the trails or visit the free Hyde Memorial Observatory.
When it’s time to get down to business, Nebraska’s K-12 and higher-education systems set students up for success, and Nebraska has some of the lowest unemployment rates in the country.
Lincoln, NE Quality of Life LivScore
Lincoln, NE Top Categories
Transportation
Housing & Cost of Living
Economy
Lincoln ranks highest for transportation, housing and economy.
Weather and Outdoor Activities in Lincoln, NE
Summers are hot, and winters are blustery and snowy. Keep warm and show off your school spirit by bundling up in a Huskers beanie! The average highs and lows are 86°F and 65°F (summer) and 36°F and 18°F (winter).
The average annual snowfall in Lincoln is 26 inches, and the snowiest months are typically December and January.
The average annual rainfall in Lincoln is 30 inches, with May being the wettest month. The driest month is typically February.
Lincoln averages 216 sunny days a year.
Visit the Sunken Gardens. Each year volunteers and staff plant annuals corresponding to a theme, and in 2023, it’s Beatles-inspired. Bring on Penny Lane and Strawberry Fields!
Lincoln Weather
216 days
Average Annual Sun
30 inches
Average Annual Rain
26 inches
Average Annual Snow
Things To Do in Lincoln, NE
Nebraska’s capital is home to more than 30,000 immigrants and refugees from 150 countries.
Go swimming and swoosh down the water slides at Star City Shores Aquatic Center.
A beloved favorite is Eyes of the World Imports, which sources fair-trade goods and home decor from around the world.
Go for dinner and a show. Screamers Family Restaurant is an entertaining option, and the restaurant was conceived by an alum of the University of Nebraska’s show choir, The Scarlet and Cream Singers.
The Local and State Economy in Lincoln, NE
Key industries in Lincoln include government, manufacturing and agriculture. Significant employers include Lincoln Public Schools, the State of Nebraska and Kawasaki Motors Manufacturing Corp.
In 2023, the sales tax rate in Lincoln is 5.5%.
Yes, Nebraska has a state income tax.
Lincoln residents are in good health thanks to Bryan Medical Center, Select Specialty Hospital-Lincoln and Lincoln Surgical Hospital. Bryan Health is a nonprofit health system that provides a range of medical services and centers in the area, as well.
There are several major colleges and universities in Lincoln, NE, including the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Nebraska Wesleyan University, Union College and Southeast Community College.
Quick Facts About Lincoln, NE
- Median Household Income
- $64,193
- Median Home Value
- $236,439
- Average State Property Tax
- $1,676
- Total Population
- 294,860
- Median Rent/Mo.
- $809
- Average Commute
- 16.8 minutes
Education, access to and ease of transportation, and a variety of housing options (at a low cost of living!) all contribute to Lincoln’s ranking as one of the best places to live in the U.S. Read even more about what makes Lincoln a great community, or consider other great places to live in the Midwest. Another good resource as you consider a move: The Ultimate Guide To Finding Your Best Place To Live.
