Moving to Nebraska: What You Need to Know
Nebraska offers a stable, affordable lifestyle centered around its two main metros: Omaha and Lincoln. Omaha punches well above its weight as the home of Berkshire Hathaway, Mutual of Omaha, Union Pacific Railroad, and several other Fortune 500 companies. The state consistently ranks among the lowest unemployment rates in the nation. With median home prices around $245,000 and a growing food and culture scene in Omaha, Nebraska is an underrated Midwestern option for families and professionals.
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Cost of Living in Nebraska
Median Home Price
$245,000
Median Monthly Rent
$1,050/mo
Avg Local Move
$810
Avg Long-Distance Move
$3,600
Taxes in Nebraska
| Tax Type | Rate |
|---|---|
| State Income Tax | 2.46%–6.64% (progressive) |
| Effective Property Tax | 1.63% |
| State Sales Tax | 5.5% + local up to 2% |
Job Market & Economy
Nebraska Climate & Weather
Continental climate with cold, windy winters and hot summers. Temperatures range from single digits in January to the 90s in July. Severe thunderstorms and tornadoes occur in spring and summer.
Best Cities to Move to in Nebraska
Pros and Cons of Living in Nebraska
Pros
- +Very affordable housing with median prices around $245,000
- +Strong job market with low unemployment
- +Omaha is home to several Fortune 500 companies including Berkshire Hathaway
- +Excellent public schools and family-friendly communities
Cons
- -High property taxes above the national average
- -Severe weather including tornadoes and harsh winters
- -Limited urban amenities outside Omaha and Lincoln
- -Flat terrain and isolation in western portions of the state
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to move to Nebraska?
A local move within Nebraska averages $700–$1,100. Moving from neighboring Midwest states costs $900–$2,500. Cross-country moves to Nebraska typically run $3,000–$6,000.
Is Omaha a good city to move to?
Omaha is increasingly recognized as one of the best mid-size cities in America. It has a diverse job market with multiple Fortune 500 headquarters, an excellent food scene (especially steakhouses), affordable housing with median prices around $260,000, and top-rated public and private schools. The Old Market district offers walkable nightlife and dining.
How do Nebraska property taxes compare?
Nebraska has relatively high property taxes averaging 1.63%, which is above the national average of about 1.1%. On a $245,000 home, you'd pay approximately $4,000 per year. The state has been working on property tax relief measures, and agricultural property taxes are a perennial political issue.
What is the weather like in Nebraska?
Nebraska has a true four-season continental climate. Winters are cold with average January highs of 30–35°F and frequent wind chill below zero. Summers are hot, with July temperatures reaching the 90s. The state sits in Tornado Alley, with spring and early summer bringing severe thunderstorms. Omaha averages about 30 inches of snow per year.
What are the best suburbs of Omaha?
Papillion consistently ranks as one of the best small cities in Nebraska with excellent schools. La Vista offers affordable housing and easy highway access. Elkhorn (now part of Omaha) has newer developments and top schools. Bellevue is home to Offutt Air Force Base and offers affordable living. Gretna is a fast-growing suburb with new construction and highly rated schools.