Nebraska Cost of Living
Can you afford to live in the Cornhusker State?
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Nebraska attracts people looking for a mix of small-town comfort and urban convenience, but whether you’re moving for career opportunities, family or a slower pace, it’s important to get a clear picture of the costs you’ll face. Every move brings new questions — from comparing rental prices to figuring out monthly utility bills — and Nebraska’s affordability can make a difference for families and individuals alike.
Before you commit to relocating, understanding how much you’ll need for rent or a mortgage, groceries, transportation and health care is key. Nebraska offers some financial advantages, but costs can vary based on your needs and location.
To determine the cost of living in Nebraska, our team reviewed data from the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis to understand average spending. We also used recent sources to gather housing, food, transportation, health care and utility costs for a full picture of everyday expenses.
People in Nebraska spend $52,177 each year on goods and services, on average.
Jump to insightThe median rent in Nebraska is $1,094, versus the national median rent of $1,639.
Jump to insightResidents in Nebraska spend $235.12 weekly on food at home.
Jump to insightAs of August 2025, the average price per gallon of regular gas is $2.94 in Nebraska.
Jump to insightRecent data shows that employees in Nebraska pay $1,784 annually for employee-sponsored health insurance coverage.
Jump to insightThe average cost of living in Nebraska
According to the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA), the average annual per-person spending in Nebraska was $52,177 in 2023. This figure represents what Nebraskans typically spend across major categories like housing, health care, food, transportation and other goods and services.
Here’s a breakdown of the largest spending categories in Nebraska:
| Category | Annual per-capita cost in Nebraska |
|---|---|
| Housing and utilities | $7,756 |
| Health care | $9,572 |
| Food and beverages for off-premises consumption | $3,904 |
| Gasoline and other energy goods | $1,992 |
| All other personal consumption expenditures | $28,953 |
| Total cost | $52,177 |
Housing costs in Nebraska
Housing is often the largest expense for Nebraska residents. Based on 2025 Apartments.com data, the average rent in Nebraska is $1,094, compared with the national average of $1,639. Rent amounts can shift considerably depending on whether you choose a city apartment or a rural home. According to the U.S. Census Bureau’s 2023 American Community Survey, the average monthly rents in Nebraska are:
- One-bedroom rent: $893
- Two-bedroom rent: $1,059
- Three-bedroom rent: $1,292
- Four-bedroom rent: $1,512
For homebuyers, Nebraska’s median home price is $308,000, which is noticeably less than the U.S. median of $446,638. Property taxes are also a factor — Nebraska ranks No. 4 for highest effective property tax rates in the country, with an average rate of 1.43%.
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Food costs in Nebraska
How much Nebraskans spend on groceries and dining out depends on their habits and where they shop. According to the most recent U.S. Census data, the average weekly grocery bill in Nebraska is $235.12, while the national average is $270.21.
Your choices play a big role in your food expenses. Eating at restaurants in cities like Omaha or Lincoln will cost more than cooking at home or shopping at local markets in smaller communities. Rural areas often offer lower prices for fresh produce and staples, so families who prepare meals at home may find their grocery budget stretches further outside the major cities.
Transportation costs in Nebraska
For those driving in Nebraska, the average price for a gallon of regular gas is $2.94, compared with the national average of $3.13.
Auto insurance is another transportation cost to plan for. The average premium in Nebraska for combined coverage is $1,049.62, while the U.S. average is $1,258.
Health care costs in Nebraska
Employees in Nebraska with employer-sponsored health insurance pay an average of $1,784 each year, while employers contribute the remaining $6,464 toward the $8,248 total.
Nationally, employees contribute about $1,640 per year out of a total premium of $8,182.
Utility costs in Nebraska
The average electric bill each month in Nebraska is $111.52, compared with the national average of $136.84.
Natural gas costs are also important — in Nebraska, it’s $9.28 per thousand cubic feet, while the U.S. average is $12.92
FAQ
Does Nebraska have a high cost of living?
No, Nebraska does not have a high cost of living. Utilities are generally more affordable there than in most states, and rent tends to be less than the U.S. median. Home prices are also much lower than what buyers typically see nationwide. However, Nebraskans may pay slightly more for health care, which can have an impact on monthly budgets.
Is Nebraska a good place to live?
Yes, Nebraska is a good place to live if you’re seeking affordable living and a strong environment for renters. The state’s overall cost of living is lower than the national average, and it stands out as a particularly good option for people who want to rent rather than buy. While Nebraska may not be among the fastest-growing states, its affordability and rental options appeal to many.
Is Nebraska good for renters?
Yes, Nebraska is good for renters. Rent is generally more affordable than in most states, and rental units are relatively available for those seeking housing options. However, tenant protections are weaker than in many other places, so renters should be aware of their rights and responsibilities before signing a lease.
Article sources
ConsumerAffairs writers primarily rely on government data, industry experts and original research from other reputable publications to inform their work. Specific sources for this article include:
- Apartments.com, “Rent Trends.” Accessed Aug. 20, 2025.
- Redfin, “Redfin Data Center.” Accessed Aug. 20, 2025.
- Tax Foundation, “Where Do People Pay the Most in Property Taxes?” Accessed Aug. 20, 2025.
- United States Census Bureau, “Week 63 Household Pulse Survey: October 18 - October 30.” Accessed Aug. 20, 2025.
- AAA Gas Prices, “State Gas Price Averages.” Accessed Aug. 20, 2025.
- National Association of Insurance Commissioners, “2021/2022 Auto Insurance Database Report.” Accessed Aug. 20, 2025.
- KFF, “Average Annual Single Premium per Enrolled Employee For Employer-Based Health Insurance.” Accessed Aug. 20, 2025.
- U.S. Energy Information Administration, “2023 Average Monthly Bill- Residential.” Accessed Aug. 20, 2025.
