The Top 10 Most Affordable Cities in Nebraska

Nebraska is known for its unique charms and history, including plentiful fossil beds that date back 12 million years. Beyond its tasty Reuben sandwiches and bountiful corn production, Nebraska is also a beautiful Midwest state to call home; many choose to live and retire where they can admire the scenic bluffs and grassy plains. If you’re looking to move to Nebraska, NewHomeSource has compiled a list of the 10 most affordable cities to inform your choice.

10 Most Affordable Cities

1. Lexington

Home Price to Income Ratio: 1.75

Average Property Tax: $1,682

Median Household Income: $52,885

The most affordable city in Nebraska award goes to Lexington! The city has multiple highlights, including the Dawson County Historical Society, campgrounds, and fairgrounds. The Platte River meanders along the city’s southern border, where you can also find the Heartland Museum of Military Vehicles.

2. Hastings

Home Price to Income Ratio: 2.46

Average Property Tax: $2,085

Median Household Income: $48,644

Hastings is the seat of Adams County. Brush up on your local history at the Hastings Museum or spend a sunny day basking at Lake Hastings Park. The city is known as the birthplace of Kool-Aid, and each year the city hosts a celebration in its honor.

3. North Platte

Home Price to Income Ratio: 2.19

Average Property Tax: $2,105

Median Household Income: $54,357

Located in west-central Nebraska, North Platte is sandwiched between the North and South Platte Rivers. The area is packed with things to do, including waterside parks and golf courses, making for a picturesque view as you enjoy the fresh air. Other city attractions include the North Platte Area Children’s Museum and Cody Park Railroad Museum.

4. South Sioux City

Home Price to Income Ratio: 2.12

Average Property Tax: $2,196

Median Household Income: $54,806

South Sioux City is located along the Missouri River at the Nebraska-Iowa border. Fans of the great outdoors will love spending time at Crystal Cove Park, which features a lake, biking and hiking trails, and a disc-golf course. Be sure to check out the South Sioux City Bengston Trail, a network of 22 connected trails. The northernmost trails offer an unobstructed view of the Missouri River.

5. Grand Island

Home Price to Income Ratio: 2.56

Average Property Tax: $698

Median Household Income: $54,965

With over 53,000 residents calling it home, Grand Island is one of the most populated cities in the state. From its water park to its convention center, there’s always something to see and do in Grand Island. The city has numerous lakes and parks within its borders, so you have your choice of location for a morning run. Museum fan? Check out the Stuhr Museum of the Prairie Pioneer and tour the 1890s-era living history museum.

6. Fremont

Home Price to Income Ratio: 2.68

Average Property Tax: $2,150

Median Household Income: $49,474

Located in east Nebraska, Fremont is the seat of Dodge County. Fremont is home to Midland University and its points of interest include the Louis E. May Museum which has been remolded into a Classic Revival design architecture. You’ll also have your pick of sports stadiums and a water park. Omaha is only 40 miles southeast of Fremont, making day trips to Nebraska’s largest city a breeze.

7. Norfolk

Home Price to Income Ratio: 2.94

Average Property Tax: $2,312

Median Household Income: $46,321

Norfolk is located in Madison County, just north of the Elkhorn River. There’s plenty to do in this flourishing city! Learn about local history at the Elkhorn Valley Museum, or practice your golf swing at one of the country clubs. On warm days, have a picnic at Skyview Lake Park or go for a make a splash at AquaVenture Water Park. 

8. Beatrice

Home Price to Income Ratio: 2.37

Average Property Tax: $1,791

Median Household Income: $44,991

Beatrice is a southeastern city of over 12,400 residents. One of the main attractions is Chautauqua Park, located along the Big Blue River. The park features hiking trails, campgrounds, and plenty of waterfront greenspace. If you fancy a trip to Lincoln, just hop on US 77 and drive 40 miles north – you’ll find yourself in the capital city in a flash.

9. Scottsbluff

Home Price to Income Ratio: 2.63

Average Property Tax: $1,959

Median Household Income: $44,354

Located in western Nebraska, Scottsbluff drips with charm. You’ll find abundant activities to enjoy, including the Midwest Theater. Here you can enjoy live music and theatrical performances in a restored 1946 entertainment hall. At the southern edge of the city, you can visit the expansive space of Riverside Park, which features a dog park, campgrounds, and a zoo. Just outside of town, you can view the striking rock formations of Scotts Bluff National Monument.

10. Kearney

Home Price to Income Ratio: 3.14

Average Property Tax: $2,845

Median Household Income: $57,064

Situated just north of the Platte River, Kearney is the seat of Buffalo County and home to over 30,000 residents. Families can take their youngsters to Kearney Area Children’s Museum for hours of fun, or swing by the Buffalo County Fairgrounds for local events. For more museum excitement, check out the 200 vintage automobiles at the Classic Car Collection, or drop by the Trails & Rails Museum.

Cities with the Best Home Price to Income Ratio

While the list above is sorted by the lowest overall cost of living index, the following cities have the lowest home price to income ratio, meaning you can get more home for your money.

• Ludlow
• Norton
• Somerset