Back

Cost of Living in
Nebraska

Living cost is 10.5% lower than avg
Families spend upto $7,882/mo on avg
Homeowners spend $7,519/mo on avg
Renters spend $4,167/mo on avg

Cost of Living in
Nebraska

Enter the city you're moving from

Moving From

Moving To

Your Pre-Tax Income

A Breakdown of the Cost of Living in Nebraska

U.S. Avg.

Nebraska

Difference Diff

Home Price

$534,127

$401,100.33

25%

Apartment Rent (per month)

$1,354

$1,258

U.S. Avg.

Nebraska

Difference Diff

Phone (per month)

$219.9

$202.46

Total Energy (per month)

$194.67

$166.55

14%

U.S. Avg.

Nebraska

Difference Diff

Grocery Staples

Corn Flakes (per box)

$5.88

$5.26

10%

Frozen Corn (per bag)

$2.33

$2.26

Frozen Meal (per package)

$4.75

$3.64

23%

Cooking Oil (per bottle)

$6.00

$8.5

42%

Detergent (per bottle)

$18.81

$20.18

Facial Tissues (per box)

$2.54

$2.17

15%

Sweet Peas (per can)

$1.74

$1.58

Sugar (per bag)

$4.46

$4.76

Bread (per loaf)

$3.66

$3.94

Frying Chicken (per lb)

$1.64

$1.47

11%

Meat & Poultry

Chicken (per lb)

$1.67

$1.52

Steak (per lb)

$13.56

$16.91

25%

Sausage (per lb)

$4.89

$4.76

Ground Beef (per lb)

$7.90

$7.99

Snacks & Beverages

Soft Drink (per bottle)

$3.08

$2.86

Potato Chips (per bag)

$5.08

$4.03

21%

Coffee (per lb)

$5.92

$6.43

Fresh Orange Juice (per half gallon)

$4.85

$4.87

Fruits & Vegetables

Peaches (per can)

$4.29

$2.71

37%

Lettuce (per head)

$1.85

$1.98

Bananas (per lb)

$0.62

$0.77

24%

Potatoes (per bag)

$4.61

$5.33

16%

Dairy & Eggs

Parmesan Cheese (per lb)

$4.46

$4.66

Margarine (per lb)

$1.26

$1.39

10%

Eggs (per dozen)

$4.50

$4.41

Whole Milk (per gallon)

$4.02

$4.69

17%

Seafood

Chunk Light Tuna (per can)

$1.06

$1.24

17%

U.S. Avg.

Nebraska

Difference Diff

Tire Balance (per tire)

$69.15

$61.02

12%

Gasoline (per gallon)

$2.82

$2.88

U.S. Avg.

Nebraska

Difference Diff

Doctor Visit (per visit)

$113.53

$173.79

53%

Dentist Visit (per visit)

$144.14

$104.79

27%

Ibuprofen (per bottle)

$11.48

$11.68

Prescription Drug (per month)

$21.09

$24.01

14%

Optometrist Visit (per visit)

$93.18

$130.19

40%

U.S. Avg.

Nebraska

Difference Diff

Women’s Slacks

$34.9

$35.51

Boys’ Jeans

$29.45

$27.93

Men’s Shirt

$39.14

$41.42

Wine (per bottle)

$7.14

$11.15

56%

Beer (per 6-pack)

$10.78

$9.79

Veterinary Services (per visit)

$65.41

$60.03

Tennis Balls (per pack)

$3.49

$3.81

Yoga (per class)

$11.89

$17.27

45%

Movie (per ticket)

$11.41

$12.11

Newspaper (per copy)

$18.96

$15.27

19%

Washer Repair (per service)

$109.38

$108.46

Women Slacks

$34.88

$39.09

12%

Boy Jeans

$29.51

$27.66

Man Dress Shirt

$39.05

$44.76

15%

Dry Cleaning (per item)

$13.25

$20.56

55%

Shampoo (per bottle)

$1.56

$1.4

10%

Toothpaste (per tube)

$3.59

$4.04

13%

Beauty Salon (per visit)

$46.61

$37.31

20%

Haircut (per cut)

$26.79

$26.88

Fried Chicken (per serving)

$4.36

$5.05

16%

Pizza (per pizza)

$11.88

$12.96

Hamburger (per serving)

$5.25

$5.43

The cost of living in Nebraska is 10.5% lower than the national average. Nebraska’s strong agricultural industry and major employers like ConAgra Foods, Union Pacific, and the University of Nebraska system keep the job market stable. This economic foundation supports reasonable costs for housing and services across the state, offering a balance of affordability and quality of life.

Housing is 25% lower than the US average. The median home price in Nebraska is $401,100.33, compared to the national median of $428,000. If you buy a house in Nebraska, you will need to make a down payment of 10% to 20% of the home's price. On average, monthly mortgage payments here are between 25% and 35% lower than the national average.
Renting in Nebraska is 7.1% lower than the national average of $1,530. The average cost of rent in Nebraska is approximately $1,258.00 per month. Despite these lower costs, Nebraska's rental properties offer added features such as attached garages and basement storage, which often come with extra fees in metropolitan markets.
Utilities are 11% lower than the national average. Nebraska's renewable energy initiatives and efficient infrastructure help keep electricity costs manageable year-round. Winter heating bills increase during cold snaps, but overall utility expenses remain predictable. Monthly utility bills average $380, including electricity, heating, water, and internet services.
Food prices in Nebraska are 3% lower than the US median. If you're a family of four, you'll typically spend $1,050 to $1,250 each month on groceries. Single adults budget $285 to $400 monthly, thanks to Nebraska's agricultural production and competitive grocery markets.
Transportation costs are 6.44% lower than the US average. Gas prices average $2.88 per gallon, compared to $3.16 nationwide. Monthly car insurance premiums average $168, which is 8% below the national average of $183. Public transit options are limited outside Omaha and Lincoln, so personal vehicles are essential for most residents.
Healthcare costs in Nebraska are 1.56% lower than the national average. A routine check-up costs $124, dental cleanings average $118, while emergency room visits without insurance can reach $2,500. Nebraska's healthcare network includes major medical centers like Nebraska Medicine and CHI Health, which provide comprehensive care at reasonable rates.
Miscellaneous expenses are 3.67% lower than the national average. This covers everything from Husker football season tickets to visits to Chimney Rock National Historic Site. A family day at Henry Doorly Zoo costs around $120, while dinner for two at a farm-to-table restaurant in Lincoln can be anywhere between $85 and $125.

Moving to Nebraska? Enjoy more space and a lower cost of living! Just don’t forget—cornfields are free, but your bills still need paying!Cost of living data is sourced in part from the Council for Community and Economic Research (C2ER). Figures are provided for informational purposes only and may not reflect real-time changes.

Find your
dream home in Nebraska

Browse Homes For Sale in Nebraska

Is Living in Nebraska Expensive?

No, Nebraska is not expensive to live in. The state offers an affordable lifestyle for both individuals and families, with Nebraska's cost of living 10.5% lower than the US average. The biggest savings come from housing, which is 25% lower than the national median.

With $1,258.00, you can get a spacious house in Nebraska with a yard and garage. In contrast, that same amount might only fetch you a small condo in Illinois or a modest home in Missouri. Affordable food, transportation and utilities further boost the state’s overall value.

Housing in Nebraska

If you're buying a home in Nebraska, you'll find excellent value compared to coastal and metropolitan markets. With mortgage rates ranging from 6.5% to 7.5%, and property taxes averaging 1.6% of home value, your monthly housing costs remain manageable. Let's break down costs for a Nebraska home:

Buying a House in Nebraska

For young adults or single people, one-bedroom homes in Omaha or Lincoln are favored entry points into homeownership. These cities have career opportunities, entertainment districts, and urban amenities while maintaining midwest affordability. Homes here average $250,000 to $350,000, so your mortgage payments range from $1,600 to $2,200 monthly (excluding insurance and taxes). Condos in downtown Omaha, Bellevue, and other metro areas are typically priced between $160,000 and $280,000.
If you're a married couple with young children (under 6), expect to pay between $300,000 and $450,000 for a three-bedroom home in Papillion, La Vista, or Gretna. Alongside top schools, these family-friendly communities also provide numerous parks and playgrounds, safe neighborhoods with low crime rates, and convenient access to shopping and healthcare facilities.
If you're a married couple with older children (ages 6 to 17), you can find multi-family homes in Nebraska for $320,000 to $580,000. Towns like Kearney and Norfolk offer larger properties, quiet neighborhoods, and strong public school systems. Both communities also come with youth sports leagues, public libraries, and family recreation centers.

Renting a House in Nebraska

Renting in Nebraska costs 7.1% lower than the national average. With average monthly rent around $1,258.00 compared to the US average of $1,530, the state ranks among the most affordable in the Midwest. Rental prices differ based on city size and how close you are to major job centers. Here's a closer look at average rent across Nebraska.

If you're a young adult or single person, rent for a one-bedroom apartment in downtown Omaha or Haymarket District in Lincoln costs $1,300 to $1,700 monthly. These neighborhoods offer restaurants, entertainment, and access to major employers such as ConAgra Foods and the University of Nebraska. More budget-friendly options are available in places like Benson or Kearney, where rent ranges from $900 to $1,200 per month.
Married couples with young children (under 6) can expect to pay between $1,400 and $1,900 per month for a two-bedroom home in family-friendly areas like Grand Island and Kearney. These communities offer well-maintained parks, dependable childcare, and access to good public schools. Local attractions such as the Stuhr Museum and Fort Kearny State Recreation Area, along with proximity to the University of Nebraska at Kearney, make these towns especially appealing for young families.
For families with older children (ages 6 to 17), renting a three-bedroom home in Norfolk or a four-bedroom home in Columbus costs between $1,500 and $2,200 monthly. Units in top school zones generally sit near the upper end of the rental range.
If you're downsizing, expect to spend $1,000 to $1,500 monthly renting one- or two-bedroom condos in Lincoln, Hastings, or North Platte. These areas offer low-maintenance living, access to healthcare at Bryan Medical Center and Great Plains Health, along with proximity to cultural amenities.
International students should expect a three-bedroom apartment in Nebraska to cost around $2,000 per month. However, living with roommates in college towns like Lincoln or Kearney can reduce individual rent costs by up to 35%.

Utilities in Nebraska

Food and Groceries in Nebraska

Nebraska benefits from a strong agricultural industry and local processing, which keeps food prices competitive. From corn-fed beef to fresh produce, the state offers quality food at lower costs. Grocery prices sit 3% lower than the national average. Here is a closer look at typical grocery expenses in Nebraska:

Proteins for Family Dinners: Steak costs about $16.91 per pound, keeping weekend barbecues affordable for most families. Ground beef averages $7.99 per pound. Locally processed pork, a Nebraska specialty, costs $6.95. Whole chicken is the most budget-friendly protein, at $1.52 per pound.
Kitchen Essentials: A gallon of whole milk costs $4.69, which is slightly higher than the US median due to processing expenses. A dozen eggs cost $4.41, which is relatively cheaper. Coffee sells for $6.43 per pound, butter costs $4.05 per 16-ounce package, local aged cheddar cheese is $4.66 per 8-ounce block, sugar goes for $4.76 per 4-pound bag, and fresh orange juice is priced at $4.87 per 1-liter bottle.
Fruits and Vegetables: Nebraska’s local agriculture keeps produce prices steady year-round. Tomatoes average $1.80 per pound, while carrots cost about $1.20 per pound. Seasonal favorites like pumpkins and squash become more affordable in the fall. Local farmers markets in Kearney and Grand Island offer fresh, budget-friendly options throughout the growing season.
Snacks and Frozen Meals: Potato chips typically sell for about $4.03 per bag, varying by brand and size. Frozen peas average $3.64 per bag, 7% less than the national average. Frozen corn costs only $2.26 per bag—no surprise in the Cornhusker State, where corn practically grows itself!
Other Grocery Expenses: Cooking oil costs $8.50 per bottle, which is 3% less than the national average. Household essentials like facial tissues ($2.17) are 5% cheaper, while laundry detergent ($20.18) comes in 10% below national rates. Paper towels cost $3.35 and dish soap $3.75, both slightly below national averages, while trash bags at $6.35 are 7% less expensive in comparison.

Transportation in Nebraska

Healthcare in Nebraska

Healthcare costs in Nebraska fall 1.56% lower than the national average, due to efficient healthcare services and competitive markets. While rural residents might need to travel to regional centers, quality care is available statewide. Here is an overview of medical expenses in Nebraska:

Doctor Visit — $173.79+ per visit: Routine care in Nebraska averages $124 per visit, essentially matching the national average. Typical visits for issues like allergy checks, minor injuries, or vaccination updates usually fall within this price range. More specialized appointments, such as physical therapy or orthopedic consultations, can range from $190 to $300, depending on the provider and location.
Dentist Visit — $104.79+ per visit: Routine dental cleanings cost about $118, while cavity fillings range from $180 to $250. Compared to nearby states like Iowa, where cleanings cost $115, and Kansas at $120, Nebraska stays competitive. Minor procedures like X-rays and fluoride treatments also run 5% to 10% below regional averages.
Optometrist Visit — $130.19+ per visit: Routine eye exams in Nebraska cost a bit more than the national average of $130, likely because rural areas have fewer providers. These exams include vision tests and prescription updates. Additional services, such as contact lens fittings or glaucoma treatments, may increase costs by $70 to $190.
Prescription Drugs — $24.01+ per package: A month’s supply of Lisinopril for high blood pressure costs between $15 and $28 without insurance. Managing type 2 diabetes with Metformin costs $20 to $40 per month. Common antibiotics like Amoxicillin typically cost $22 to $35 for short-term treatment.
Over-the-Counter Meds — $12+ per package: Common over-the-counter items such as pain relievers, allergy tablets, and cold remedies usually cost between $12 and $16 per package. Keeping these essentials on hand helps manage seasonal illnesses or minor aches without extra trips to the doctor.

Healthcare expenses in Nebraska align closely with national averages. Residents benefit from quality medical centers such as Nebraska Medicine, CHI Health, and Great Plains Health. While harsh winters may raise costs related to seasonal illnesses, effective preventive care and competitive insurance options help keep overall healthcare spending manageable.
It's a good idea to get health insurance, as the average cost of a doctor's visit in Nebraska is around $125*. The monthly premium of a health insurance plan in the state typically ranges between $365* and $645*.

*Disclaimer: These figures are averages and can vary based on individual circumstances and specific insurance providers. It's recommended to compare plans and consult with insurance professionals to find the best coverage for your needs.

Miscellaneous Costs in Nebraska

What Salary Do You Need to Live in Nebraska?

The median income in Nebraska is 10.5% lower. A comfortable lifestyle typically requires between $42,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on your lifestyle, family size, and spending choices.

Homeowners spend $90,232.00 per year: This covers mortgage or property taxes, utilities, maintenance, and other usual housing-related expenses in Nebraska.

Renters spend $50,000.00 per year: This includes rent, groceries, utilities, transportation, and basic living costs across most cities and towns.

Families with kids spend $94,588.00 per year: This income supports childcare, larger housing, groceries, healthcare, and family activities, ensuring a comfortable lifestyle for families in Nebraska.

Is Nebraska Too Expensive? Find Homes in Nebraska as Per Your Budget

Nebraska Homes Under

$100,000

Nebraska Homes Under

$200,000

Nebraska Homes Under

$300,000

Nebraska Homes Under

$400,000

Nebraska Homes Under

$500,000

Nebraska Homes Under

$600,000

Nebraska Homes Under

$700,000

Nebraska Homes Under

$800,000

Nebraska Homes Under

$900,000

Nebraska Homes Under

$1M

Discover your place in Nebraska

View neighborhood insights, browse popular homes, and shortlist the ones you like on any device.

Download the Houzeo Mobile App Now!

What is a Cost of Living Calculator?

A cost of living calculator helps you compare the expenses required to live in a different location. The calculator factors in various living expenses like housing, food, utilities, transportation, fitness, and entertainment, etc., and helps you estimate how much salary you need to live in that city. Since the cost of goods and services varies in different cities, a Nebraska cost of living calculator can help you make the decision to move to this city or not.

About Cost of Living Data

The data used to determine Nebraska's cost of living is sourced from the Council for Community and Economic Research (C2ER). Published since 1968, COLI data is recognized by the U.S. Census Bureau and the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This organization regularly updates its data to offer a detailed and well-researched view of living expenses in cities across the country. An independent Advisory Board reviews C2ER’s data collection methodologies and quarterly publications to ensure consistency and quality. For more information, visit www.coli.org. Data published as of Oct 2025.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is gas in Nebraska?

The cost of gas in Nebraska averages $2.88 per gallon. Costs can rise during winter because of weather delays, or busy events like Husker football games and the state fair. Plus, the long drives between cities can mean more stops for fuel on weekend trips.

Is Nebraska a good place to live?

Yes, Nebraska provides a balanced lifestyle with affordable homes, welcoming communities, and reliable education. The state benefits from reputable universities and strong healthcare systems. Cities like Omaha and Lincoln offer plenty of cultural and recreational opportunities while keeping living expenses manageable.

What is the average cost of living in Nebraska?

The average cost of living in Nebraska is 10.5% lower than the national average. Omaha and Lincoln are on the higher end, while smaller towns like Grand Island and Kearney are among the most affordable places to live in Nebraska.

What is the average rent in Nebraska?

A one-bedroom apartment in Nebraska typically rents for $850 to $1,258.00 per month. Premium areas like downtown Omaha and Lincoln's Haymarket charge higher rents for their amenities, like proximity to entertainment districts and employment centers.

How much is a 2-bedroom apartment in Nebraska?

A two-bedroom apartment in Nebraska costs between $1,000 and $1,600 per month. Expect higher rents for luxury homes in Omaha, Lincoln, and other metro areas with premium amenities.

What is the average price of utilities in Nebraska?

Utilities in Nebraska range from $190 to over $470 per month. This includes electricity, natural gas, water, sewer, and trash. Heating expenses in winter can significantly increase your utility bills.

How much is childcare in Nebraska?

If you're moving to Nebraska, expect childcare costs to range between $850 to $1,200 per month for toddlers. Daycare in cities like Omaha and Lincoln tends to be more expensive than in smaller towns such as Grand Island and Kearney, where family care options often cost less.