Nebraska is a great state for retirees who want to stay active and enjoy an exciting life during their golden years. Start your next adventure when you explore Nebraska’s historic landmarks, scenic byways, and 80 species of wildlife, including elk, pelicans, and white-tail deer.
NewHomeSource identified the top 10 cities to retire in Nebraska. You can find the perfect place to make your new home and start living the life you have always dreamed about.
Top 10 Cities to Retire in Nebraska
1. Lexington
Percentage of the Population Over 65: 10.3%
Median Home Value: $92,400
Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 20
Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 164
Number of Hospitals Within 25 Miles of the City: 3
Retirees will find Lexington to be a tranquil place to call home. It is just a few miles from Lake Johnson where you can enjoy boating, fishing, and tubing. Plenty of hiking and biking trails snake around the lake for those looking to explore nature while getting some fresh air. Lexington is also home to Mac’s Creek Winery & Brewery for anyone who wants to quench their thirst.
2. Beatrice
Percentage of the Population Over 65: 22.8%
Median Home Value: $106,600
Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 22
Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 194
Number of Hospitals Within 25 Miles of the City: 1
Beatrice is an ideal place to explore the pioneer history of Nebraska. Museums, historical parks, and national monuments make learning about this great state fun and exciting. You can also find plenty of hobbies including boutiques, pottery, and local theater to keep your schedule full.
3. South Sioux City
Percentage of the Population Over 65: 13.1%
Median Home Value: $116,200
Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 30
Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 359
Number of Hospitals Within 25 Miles of the City: 3
South Sioux City is filled with relics of yesteryear but also has all the modern conveniences you’d expect. It’s perfect for retirees looking for a new place to learn and discover some of Nebraska’s unique past. Museums and monuments dotted throughout the city provide education and entertainment for everyone.
4.Scottsbluff
Percentage of the Population Over 65: 17.2%
Median Home Value: $116,600
Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 54
Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 433
Number of Hospitals Within 25 Miles of the City: 1
If you are looking for a nice, quiet spot for retirees, look no farther than Scottsbluff. On the outskirts of popular tourist attractions, Scottsbluff lies at the base of a formation of magnificent bluffs and has all the charm of a Nebraska city – without the hustle and bustle. You’ll be surrounded by museums and historical sites that you can explore at your leisure. Or if you are so inclined, you can enjoy the art center, theater, and farmers market.
5. North Platte
Percentage of the Population Over 65: 17.6%
Median Home Value: $118,900
Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 90
Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 800
Number of Hospitals Within 25 Miles of the City: 1
North Platte brings the Old West out of the pages of history into the modern era. Experience the life of “Buffalo Bill” at Buffalo Bill Ranch State Historical Park and State Recreation Area. Or you can go horseback riding along the North Platte River at Dusty Trails. Spend your days on the water boating and fishing, or exploring the local brewery, vineyard, and restaurants.
6. Hastings
Percentage of the Population Over 65: 17.4%
Median Home Value: $119,800
Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 46
Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 727
Number of Hospitals Within 25 Miles of the City: 2
Looking for a place where you can enjoy the beautiful open skies? Or where you can learn all about your favorite folklore? Hastings, Nebraska is the place! The Hastings College Observatory and Nebraska Bigfoot Crossroads of America are just two of the attractions that make Hastings a great place to enjoy retirement. There are also recreational parks, museums, and plenty of family-friendly restaurants to suit any taste.
7. Fremont
Percentage of the Population Over 65: 17.8%
Median Home Value: $132,700
Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 49
Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 589
Number of Hospitals Within 25 Miles of the City: 5
Fremont is perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The Platte River and Fremont Lakes State Recreation Area allow for fishing, swimming, boating, and camping. Want to get a closer glimpse of a deer’s habit? Hop aboard Bryson’s Airboat Tours and hang on to your hat. On this exciting tour, you will have an excellent opportunity to photograph the incredible scenery and wildlife.
8. Grand Island
Percentage of the Population Over 65: 14.0%
Median Home Value: $140,800
Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 239
Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 1,325
Number of Hospitals Within 25 Miles of the City: 5
Grand Island offers retirees the opportunity to enjoy a quiet life. This city has art galleries, live theater, and golf courses, as well as fun eateries. In the spring, the sandhill crane migration crosses directly above Grand Island, making tours at the Crane Trust Nature & Visitor Center a must.
9. Norfolk
Percentage of the Population Over 65: 15.1%
Median Home Value: $145,400
Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 33
Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 382
Number of Hospitals Within 25 Miles of the City: 2
If you want to stay active after retirement, Norfolk is the place for you; the 195-mile Cowboy Trail is great for hiking, biking, and leisurely walks. And the Elkhorn River offers fishing, boating, kayaking, paddle boating, and camping. Downtown, The Old Market is bustling with local restaurants and businesses that give Norfolk its down-home charm.
10. Columbus
Percentage of the Population Over 65: 16.7%
Median Home Value: $145,500
Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 28
Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 357
Number of Hospitals Within 25 Miles of the City: 5
Columbus is a family town, loaded with water parks, lakes, and recreation areas that are perfect for camping and fishing. Retiring here means living in a charming, friendly community full of locally owned businesses and restaurants, along with lots of history.
Common Questions About Retiring in Nebraska
Is Nebraska tax friendly for retirees?
Unlike most other states, it does not exempt Social Security benefits from taxation. Nor does it provide any exemption or deduction for other types of retirement income, with the exception of military retirement income.
Is Lincoln Nebraska a good place to retire?
The city’s outdoor activities, strong economy, entertainment options and affordability make Lincoln one of the Best Places to Retire. Home to the University of Nebraska, Lincoln is full of youthful energy that attracts young professionals, entrepreneurs and retirees.
| City Name | People Over 65 | Violent Crimes | Property Crimes | Access to Doctors | Median Home Price |
| Lexington | 10.3% | 20 | 164 | 3 | $92,400 |
| Beatrice | 22.8% | 22 | 194 | 1 | $106,600 |
| South Sioux City | 13.1% | 30 | 359 | 3 | $116,200 |
| Scottsbluff | 17.2% | 54 | 433 | 1 | $116,600 |
| North Platte | 17.6% | 90 | 800 | 1 | $118,900 |
| Hastings | 17.4% | 46 | 727 | 2 | $119,800 |
| Fremont | 17.8% | 49 | 589 | 5 | $132,700 |
| Grand Island | 14.0% | 239 | 1,325 | 5 | $140,800 |
| Norfolk | 15.1% | 33 | 382 | 2 | $145,400 |
| Columbus | 16.7% | 28 | 357 | 5 | $145,500 |
| Bellevue | 13.8% | 110 | 961 | 16 | $148,900 |
| La Vista | 12.8% | 19 | 181 | 16 | $154,300 |
| Omaha | 12.8% | 2,884 | 17,152 | 18 | $159,700 |
| Lincoln | 13.0% | 1,123 | 8,190 | 7 | $169,800 |
| Kearney | 13.5% | 91 | 810 | 5 | $178,900 |
| Papillion | 14.4% | 40 | 433 | 16 | $189,900 |
Jessi Gonzalez writes on the topics of home-buying, home decor, and home-ownership for New Home Source. She has a degree from Coastal Bend College and is currently enrolled in the English degree program at Texas A&M Corpus Christi.
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