Where to Live Now
Best Places To Live in Nebraska
Best Places To Live in Nebraska
The Cornhusker State is Midwestern through and through, from its welcoming residents to its outdoorsy vibe. Here are the best places to live in Nebraska.
Most residents would agree that life in Nebraska offers a distinctively Midwestern experience, defined by a blend of welcoming neighbors, affordable real estate and an abundance of natural beauty. The local job market is sturdy and diverse, presenting people with opportunities in agriculture, health care, education and manufacturing. The economic stability and more rural way of life understandably contributes to the state’s reasonable cost of living, which is appealing to people in all stages of life.
Nebraska also happens to boast four distinct seasons, which make it easy to participate in outdoor activities like hiking in the Sandhills, boating on the Platte River and exploring the scenic byways. Residents don’t want for cultural experiences, either, and local gems include the Henry Doorly Zoo and Durham Museum in Omaha as well as the growing arts scene in Lincoln. Historic sites like Chimney Rock and the Oregon Trail are equally attractive destinations that offer glimpses into the state’s storied past.
No matter what you’re hoping to find, life in Nebraska can certainly offer a multitude of comfortable and welcoming places to call home. Here’s our list of the best places to live in Nebraska.
In This Article
Bellevue
Why Bellevue is one of the best cities to live in Nebraska.
If you’d like to live somewhere that boasts a rich and fascinating history that spans centuries, look no farther than Bellevue, Nebraska. Founded in the early 19th century as a fur trading post, it’s widely recognized as the state’s oldest city and played a crucial role in the westward expansion, serving as a strategic stop along the Missouri River. Fast forward to today, and the city still proudly preserves its historic legacy with attractions like Fontenelle Forest, where visitors can learn about the indigenous people who once inhabited the region. Bellevue’s Offutt Air Force Base also serves as a pivotal piece of the local history, and the Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum offers visitors a glimpse into the area’s military significance. The pairing of modern amenities with historical charm has made Bellevue an increasingly popular place for residents of all ages to put down roots.
There was certainly a lot to do back in the early 19th century, but you can still find a wealth of activity here today. The city hosts several community events and festivals, including the annual Bellevue BBQ, which celebrates the area’s culinary heritage with what is arguably some of the best food in the region. The hiking trails and educational programs at Fontenelle Forest Nature Center are a popular draw for families with children of all ages, and the Air Force base plays a hefty role in the local economy with its active-duty military personnel and civilian employees. Add on the reputation for excellent schools and strategic location near Omaha and everything it has to offer, and you can see how this charming, historic community is able to offer residents a satisfying and high quality of life.
Bellevue, Nebraska, is best known for its rich history and military presence at Offutt Air Force Base. The city also holds the title of being the state’s oldest continuously inhabited settlement, which contributes to its interesting history involving the westward expansion of the United States.
Learn more about living in Bellevue, NE.
Grand Island
Why is Grand Island one of the best cities to live in Nebraska?
Tucked away in the heart of the state, Grand Island, Nebraska, embodies everything you would hope to find in the Cornhusker State. Small town charm is evident in the famously welcoming community, featuring a wide array of family-friendly activities and events. Residents and visitors alike enjoy exploring the more than 200 acres and 100 structures at Stuhr Museum of the Prairie Pioneer, which brings the past to life with countless exhibits, demonstrations and events. Locals also gather for the Nebraska State Fair, a yearly highlight that features entertainment, agricultural exhibitions and delicious fair food. And because the area is known for its rich history in agriculture, you can expect to find some of the finest local fare at the farmer’s market in the summer.
Life in Grand Island also comes with access to plenty of outdoor activities. The Platte River runs right through the city and serves as a prime spot for birdwatching, especially during the Sandhill Crane migration. Stolley Park is another local favorite and full of walking trails and a beautiful lily pond, as well as several picnic areas that are great for gathering with friends and family for a meal or weekend pick-up game or two. The area also boasts a number of parks and lakes that appeal to those keen on hiking, fishing and other water sports.
The cost of living in Grand Island, Nebraska, is a touch higher than the state average but still markedly lower than many places in the country, with estimates coming in around 13% below the national average. This makes it an understandably attractive place to live for families and young professionals hoping to grow their careers without breaking the bank.
Learn more about living in Grand Island, NE.
Hastings
Why Hastings is one of the best places to live in Nebraska.
Boasting a high quality of life, top-notch schools and safe neighborhoods, Hastings, Nebraska, is well on its way to becoming one of the most attractive places to live in the Cornhusker State. Newcomers quickly spot the variety of housing options on the market, ranging from downtown loft condos to new construction and historic homes dripping with charm. It doesn’t hurt that housing costs are well below the national average, a fact that stands out to people in all stages of life. For a moderately-sized city, Hastings also comes with award-winning health care facilities like Mary Canning Healthcare and Good Samaritan Society. Paired with the strong focus on education for traditional and nontraditional students, it’s easy to see why everyone from professionals and growing families to retirees are keeping a close eye on Hastings.
As far as entertainment is concerned, Hastings is home to a vibrant cultural scene that spans everything from art exhibitions to student performances at Hastings College. The Hastings Museum is packed with intriguing exhibits on regional history, science and art, including the locally treasured Kool-Aid exhibit in honor of its invention in Hastings. City parks are a great place to spend time birdwatching, picnicking and hiking, and the scenic Platte River is rich in wildlife and opportunities for water recreation. Hastings also hosts several community events and festivals throughout the year, including the notable Kool-Aid Days, Uncorked and Harvest of Harmony.
Job opportunities in Hastings, Nebraska, include everything from health care and education to manufacturing and agriculture. Retail and customer service, as well as local government and public administration are also available. Mary Lanning Healthcare, the local hospital and health care system, is a major employer in the area, as is the public school district and Hastings College.
Learn more about living in Hastings, NE.
Kearney
Why is Kearney one of the best cities to live in Nebraska?
Kearney, Nebraska, is a thriving community in the southern part of the state that welcomes newcomers with open arms. Nestled along the beautiful Platte River, this charming city has a reputation for its welcoming atmosphere and wealth of activities and attractions for locals to enjoy. The Great Platte River Road Archway Monument, a unique museum that literally spans Interstate 80, serves as a captivating introduction to the region’s history by telling the story of early pioneers in the days of westward migration. The vibrant downtown district is also bursting with charm, and it’s the perfect place to be for anyone wanting to explore the area boutiques, restaurants and art galleries. Education is another cornerstone of the Kearney, NE, community, thanks in part to the presence of the University of Nebraska at Kearney (UNK). Students and residents alike benefit from the school’s student performances, lectures and exhibitions through the year.
Kearney’s lively cultural scene and community events, like the Buffalo County Fair and annual Sandhill Crane migration, give people plenty of things to enjoy throughout each season. The city’s strategic location in the heart of the state also makes it easy to find outdoor adventures all along the Platte River and surrounding state parks, which appeal to nature enthusiasts looking to put down roots in a place that makes it convenient to get outside. The close-knit community, commitment to education, and variety of things to do in Kearney, NE, certainly make it a strong contender for people looking for a place to call home in the Cornhusker State.
Most people would agree that Kearney, NE, is a great place to raise a family. The welcoming atmosphere, quality schools and wide array of family-friendly activities and events make it an appealing place to grow a family. There are also plenty of things to do for children of all ages, from the Buffalo County Fair to the parks, trails and local recreational facilities.
Learn more about living in Kearney, NE.
Lincoln
Why Lincoln is a best place to live in Nebraska.
If you’re considering making your home in Lincoln, Nebraska, you won’t be disappointed. Located in the Great Plains, this capital city boasts a lively cultural scene, historic charm and a multitude of unique businesses you would be hard pressed to find in other comparable metropolitan areas. From the charming Haymarket District with its rich history as the original square from 1867 to the steaming mugs of coffee at Meadowlark Cafe, residents are spoiled for choice when it comes to choosing how to spend their days. Another boon to the region is the affordable real estate market. The cost of living in Lincoln, NE, sits around 8% lower than the national average, which gives residents more wiggle room in the budget to save or indulge in nights out on the town. And with everything from fast food and international cuisine to farm-to-table fare, who wouldn’t want to spend their days diving into the local food culture?
Those interested in spending more time outside won’t be disappointed either. The city boasts an expansive network of trails and parks, and biking and kayaking are common pastimes. Birdwatching is another favorite way to spend a weekend, and the sports teams that draw in visitors for University of Nebraska-Lincoln games are worth supporting throughout the year. You could even argue that the strategic location of the state capital, with its easy access to I-80, makes it a convenient spot to settle in and stay awhile. Indeed, Lincoln is not only a best city to live in Nebraska, it also landed a spot on the Top 25 Best Places to Live in the Midwest and the 2023 list of the Top 100 Best Places To Live in the U.S.
Lincoln, Nebraska, is home to a diverse economy with major employers spanning a multitude of industries. The city has several state government offices and agencies, including the State Capitol, which is a significant source of employment in the community. The University of Nebraska-Lincoln is another major employer, contributing to education, research and cultural development. Health care also plays a crucial role, with Bryan Health and CHI Health St. Elizabeth offering a range of medical and administrative positions. You can also find opportunities in insurance with companies like Allstate and Ameritas, or manufacturing roles with businesses like Kawasaki and Zoetis.
Learn more about living in Lincoln, NE.
Omaha
Why is Omaha a best place to live in Nebraska?
Affectionately known as the “Gateway to the West” because of its history with westward pioneers, Omaha, Nebraska, has earned a more modern reputation as a great place to live in the Midwest. In fact, it ranks among the Top 100 Best Places to Live in the U.S.!
Locals get to indulge in all manner of urban amenities without sacrificing cultural vibrancy or the tight-knit vibe of a smaller community. The cultural scene is probably the most recognized aspect of life here, especially considering the top attractions like the Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium, which consistently rank as one of the best not only in the state, but the country. Newcomers are often surprised by the well-rounded Joslyn Art Museum and Old Market District, too, which feature everything from historic buildings and eclectic shops to art galleries and mouthwatering eateries. Residents also have easy access to theater productions and live music at venues like Orpheum Theater and Holland Performing Arts Center. (Here’s a fun itinerary for a weekend getaway to Omaha, NE.)
Those who appreciate getting a bit of fresh air appreciate the wide variety of recreational opportunities the city affords. Omaha has a delightfully extensive park system that includes places like Elmwood Park and Hanscom Park, both of which come up in conversations often when asked where to go for a weekend hike or leisurely picnic with friends and family. The scenic Riverfront area along the Missouri River is another hotspot that features walking and biking trails, while Lewis and Clark Landing is the place to go if you want to take in the beautiful river views. Despite being a city of more than 487,000 people, Omaha’s commitment to green spaces guarantees its residents will always have plenty of choices for getting out in nature.
Looking for a fun fact about Omaha? This vibrant city happens to be the birthplace of renowned TV journalist and talk show host Johnny Carson. He’s best known for hosting “The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson” for 30 years, and his legacy is celebrated at the Johnny Carson Center for Emerging Media Arts at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.
Learn more about living in Omaha, NE.
Thinking of moving to Nebraska?
Choosing a great place to live in Nebraska doesn’t have to be a chore. We have tons of resources for moving to Nebraska as well as other best places to live in the Midwest. No matter where you want to live, we can help you decide where to move and discover the best places to live in the U.S.
