Most affordable places to live in Nebraska cost 23% less than the national average. Moreover, median home prices stay under $160,000. Additionally, the state ranks 7th most affordable in America and has a cost of living index of 90.1.
Therefore, families save thousands yearly compared to coastal states. However, Nebraska offers more than savings. For example, you can explore Scotts Bluff National Monument as well as Hastings’ excellent museums. Consequently, affordability doesn’t mean sacrificing quality.
This guide shows where money goes furthest. Specifically, we cover Nebraska’s top value cities in 2025.
Key Takeaways
- Alliance offers the lowest housing costs in Nebraska with median home prices of $156,300 and rent starting at just $575 monthly.
- Property tax savings average $1,500-$2,000 annually compared to high-tax states, with most Nebraska cities maintaining rates between $1,682-$2,085 per year.
- Rental affordability reaches exceptional levels in Beatrice where one-bedroom apartments start at $450 monthly, 50% below national metro averages.
- Cost of living advantages span all expense categories, with utilities running 13% cheaper and housing costs 20% lower than national benchmarks.
Comparing Most Affordable Places to Live in Nebraska
| City | Median Home Price | Median Rent | Cost of Living vs US | Best For |
| North Platte | $172,500-$192,400 | $981-$1,100 | 14% below (86 index) | Railroad enthusiasts, retirees, families |
| Alliance | $156,300-$165,800 | $575-$985 | 23% below (77 index) | Artists, remote workers, stargazers |
| Lexington | $155,200-$187,400 | $1,025-$1,369 | 20% below (80 index) | Multicultural families, budget buyers |
| Beatrice | $152,900-$174,800 | $450-$925 | 23% below (77 index) | Retirees, Lincoln commuters, history buffs |
| Scottsbluff | $141,300-$175,200 | $825-$1,369 | 14% below (86 index) | Outdoor enthusiasts, history lovers |
| Hastings | $177,200-$215,000 | $825-$1,369 | 15% below (85 index) | Families, culture enthusiasts |
| Holdrege | $166,600-$171,500 | $825-$1,025 | 19% below (81 index) | Farmers, retirees, remote workers |
7 Most Affordable Places to Live in Nebraska in 2025
1. North Platte
Median Home Price: $172,500-$192,400
Median Rent: $981-$1,100
Cost of Living: 14% below U.S. average
Best For: Railroad enthusiasts, retirees, families wanting affordable homeownership, outdoor lovers
North Platte sits where the North and South Platte Rivers meet. The city blends Western heritage with modern amenities. In fact, Union Pacific’s facility is the world’s largest rail classification yard. Furthermore, over 10,000 rail cars move through daily.
North Platte Public Schools perform above average statewide. For instance, North Platte High School ranks among top institutions. Similarly, McDonald Elementary maintains excellent standards.
North Platte earned Nebraska’s top affordability ranking, specifically, it achieved a perfect 100.0 score. Lake Maloney provides water recreation nearby. Therefore, residents enjoy boating and fishing minutes from downtown.
However, the city faces some limitations. For example, public transportation options as well as dining choices are limited. Nevertheless, rock-bottom housing prices offset these drawbacks.
👉Enjoy affordable living and small-town comfort in North Platte. So start your North Platte homes for sale search today!
2. Alliance
Median Home Price: $156,300-$165,800
Median Rent: $575-$985
Cost of Living: 23.2% below U.S. average
Best For: Artists, retirees on fixed incomes, remote workers, astronomy enthusiasts, quirky-destination lovers
Alliance thrives as Box Butte County’s artistic center in the Nebraska Sandhills. Moreover, the town offers quirky charm and authentic character.
Carhenge stands as the city’s most famous attraction. Specifically, this Stonehenge replica features 38 vintage automobiles. Meanwhile, the 18-hole Skyview Golf Course winds through Sandhills terrain. Therefore, both recreation and culture thrive here.
Alliance earned recognition among 8 Secluded Towns in Nebraska in 2024. Additionally, the city ranks among America’s best stargazing locations.
However, the economy depends on ranching and service industries. Thus, job diversity remains limited compared to larger cities. Nevertheless, this makes Alliance ideal for remote workers seeking affordable living.
👉Find your next affordable home in Alliance where community and value meet. Then begin exploring Alliance homes for sale!
3. Lexington
Median Home Price: $155,200-$187,400
Median Rent: $1,025-$1,369
Cost of Living: 20% below U.S. average
Best For: Multicultural families, budget-conscious homebuyers, agricultural industry workers, those seeking cultural diversity
Lexington stands as Dawson County’s hub with 10,700 residents. In fact, it ranks among Nebraska’s most culturally diverse cities. Moreover, multiple languages blend daily throughout the community. Therefore, authentic Mexican, Vietnamese, and Somali restaurants thrive downtown.
The Heartland Museum of Military Vehicles houses a world-class collection. Specifically, it attracts history enthusiasts from across the state. Furthermore, Lexington earned a 99.4 Affordability Score.
Johnson Lake Recreation Area sits 20 minutes away. Consequently, residents enjoy boating, fishing, and camping regularly. However, the economy depends heavily on meatpacking operations. Thus, job diversity remains limited compared to other areas.
👉Looking for affordable homes in the heart of Nebraska? Then discover Lexington homes for sale today!
4. Beatrice
Median Home Price: $152,900-$174,800
Median Rent: $450-$925
Cost of Living: 22.7% below U.S. average
Best For: Retirees, commuters working in Lincoln/Omaha, history enthusiasts, artists, families wanting urban proximity
Beatrice offers an easygoing lifestyle just 40 miles from Lincoln. Therefore, residents enjoy small-town charm with big-city access nearby.
Homestead National Historical Park marks America’s first homestead claim filed January 1, 1863. Additionally, this landmark legislation shaped American westward expansion significantly.
Furthermore, the city hosted the Nebraska Statewide Arts Conference that year. Consequently, Vintage Venue and creative businesses showcase the city’s commitment to arts. Meanwhile, median home values remain well below state averages, attracting Lincoln commuters.
Big Blue River provides fishing and nature opportunities nearby. Similarly, Chautauqua Park has extensive walking trails. However, the city has limited job market. Therefore, many residents commute to Lincoln for employment.
👉Experience historic charm and affordable prices in Beatrice. Therefore, start your Beatrice homes for sale search now!
5. Scottsbluff
Median Home Price: $141,300-$175,200
Median Rent: $825-$1,369
Cost of Living: 14% below U.S. average
Best For: Outdoor enthusiasts, retirees seeking dramatic scenery, agricultural professionals, healthcare workers, history buffs
Scottsbluff anchors western Nebraska’s Panhandle with 14,400 residents. Moreover, iconic bluffs frame the city.
In fact, these formations guided Oregon Trail pioneers for decades. Scotts Bluff National Monument offers hiking trails attracting over 130,000+ visitors. Furthermore, this structure was built during the 1930s.
Riverside Discovery Center features a zoo and aquarium combined. Meanwhile, Lake Minatare State Recreation Area sits just 15 minutes away. Therefore, residents enjoy boating and camping opportunities regularly.
However, the location presents challenges for residents. For instance, the city sits over 400 miles from both Denver and Omaha. Additionally, severe winter winds impact daily life in the Panhandle.
👉Scottsbluff offers scenic views and affordable homes. So begin exploring Scottsbluff homes for sale today!
6. Hastings
Median Home Price: $177,200-$215,000
Median Rent: $825-$1,369
Cost of Living: 15% below U.S. average
Best For: Families with children, museum and culture enthusiasts, retirees, young professionals, educators
Hastings thrives as balances small-town values with nationally recognized cultural amenities. Therefore, the city offers exceptional quality of life. Hastings ranked number 2 most affordable by Redfin in 2025.
Hastings Museum ranks among the finest natural history museums in the Great Plains. Specifically, it features a planetarium, IMAX theater, and wildlife dioramas. Additionally, extensive Native American collections attract visitors statewide.
Kool-Aid was invented here in 1927 by Edwin Perkins. Consequently, the city celebrates Kool-Aid Days each August. Meanwhile, Heartwell Park spans 140 acres with extensive amenities. Specifically, it offers trails, playgrounds, a lake, and sports facilities.
However, property crime rates run higher than the state average. Similarly, nightlife options are limited compared to larger cities.
👉Enjoy vibrant community life and affordable home options in Hastings. Then find Hastings homes for sale now!
7. Holdrege
Median Home Price: $166,600-$171,500
Median Rent: $825-$1,025
Cost of Living: 18.9% below U.S. average
Best For: Farmers, agricultural professionals, retirees seeking culture access, remote workers, arts enthusiasts
Holdrege offers exceptional small-town living with notable arts infrastructure. Despite modest size, the community invested over $6 million in facilities. Specifically, Tassel Performing Arts Center features state-of-the-art acoustics.
Nebraska Prairie Museum showcases pioneer history through extensive collections. Additionally, it displays farm equipment, vintage trains, and communication artifacts.
Midtown Sculpture Garden features rotating outdoor art installations year-round. Meanwhile, The 308 Boutique represents local entrepreneurship with trendy fashion.
However, the job market is very limited here. Additionally, minimal dining options exist compared to larger cities.. Nevertheless, Holdrege offers peaceful living for those seeking affordability.
👉Looking for quiet, affordable living? Then explore Holdrege homes for sale today!
How We Ranked Nebraska’s Most Affordable Cities in 2024
This comprehensive analysis uses weighted criteria such as,
- Housing Costs (40%)
- Overall Cost of Living Index (20%)
- Property Taxes & Utilities (15%)
- Employment & Income Stability (15%)
- Quality of Life Indicators (10%)
Data sources include Redfin Market Data (April 2025), Zillow Home Value Index (2025). As well as, , U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey (2024), Nebraska Department of Education statistics (2024-2025), Bureau of Labor Statistics County Employment and Wages (Q1 2025). Along with, RentCafe, HUD Fair Market Rent data, GreatSchools ratings, Niche school rankings. Finally, local municipal data, and Nebraska Realtors Association market reports.
What Drives Affordability in Nebraska?
Nebraska maintains a cost of living 4% lower than the national average. Additionally, housing expenses run 20% below typical U.S. markets. Furthermore, utilities cost 13% cheaper than national benchmarks.
Average rent for one-bedroom apartments reaches $900 in 2025. Meanwhile, median home prices hover around $272,499 statewide. However, specific cities like Alliance and Beatrice offer housing 40-50% below these averages.
Property taxes average $1,682 to $2,085 annually in most affordable rankings. Therefore, homeowners save significantly on yearly expenses. Healthcare expenses run slightly above the national average at 1% higher. Nevertheless, monthly employer-sponsored insurance averages just $141.50.
Transportation costs remain reasonable throughout the state. Specifically, fuel prices average $3.20 per gallon in 2025. Moreover, public transit fares run around $1.50 one-way where available.
Smart Tips For Nebraska Living
- Target Alliance for rock-bottom rent starting at $575 monthly while enjoying Carhenge.
- Consider Beatrice for Lincoln commuters wanting homeownership under $155,000.
- Research Hastings Museum featuring planetarium and IMAX theater offering cultural experiences.
- Time home purchases during winter months when Nebraska real estate markets traditionally see reduced competition
Should You Move to Nebraska?
Most affordable places to live in Nebraska exceptional value in 2025. Specifically, housing costs run 20% below the national average. Moreover, overall living expenses remain 4-23% cheaper than typical U.S. markets.
The state offers diverse affordable options for every lifestyle. For example, Alliance features $575 monthly rentals and iconic Carhenge. Meanwhile, Grand Island attracts over 334,000 State Fair visitors annually.
Overall, most affordable places to live in Nebraska balance quality of life with remarkable savings. In fact, the state ranks 7th most affordable in America. Therefore, families achieve financial goals while enjoying excellent amenities.
👉Looking for affordable homes across Nebraska? Then start your Nebraska homes for sale search today with Houzeo and save more on your move.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most affordable place to live in Nebraska?
Nebraska's most affordable city is North Platte with median home prices of $172,500-$192,400 and cost of living 14% below U.S. average, earning a perfect 100.0 affordability score in 2025.
What are the top 7 most affordable cities in Nebraska?
The top 7 most affordable Nebraska cities are North Platte, Alliance, Lexington, Beatrice, Scottsbluff, Hastings, Holdrege.
Which Nebraska cities are best for families on a budget?
For families on a budget, Hastings offers families world-class Hastings Museum with planetarium and IMAX theater plus 140-acre Heartwell Park at 15% below average costs
Are there affordable beach towns in Nebraska?
While Nebraska is a landlocked state without ocean beaches North Platte provides Lake Maloney access with boating and fishing while Scottsbluff offers Lake Minatare State Recreation Area for water recreation.
What makes Nebraska one of the most affordable states?
Nebraska ranks as the 7th most affordable state with 90.1 cost of living index due to housing costs 20% below national average, utilities 13% cheaper, and groceries 1% below typical prices.
