Nebraska demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
1,978,707
0.7% year-over-year change
Median household income
$76,475/yr
2.0% year-over-year change
Housing units
863,444
0.9% year-over-year change

Nebraska population

How many people live in Nebraska

Nebraska is home to 1,978,707 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.2% of Nebraska locals are male, and 49.8% are female.

Total population
1,978,707
0.7% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.2%
994,356
Female
49.8%
984,351
Value Percent YoY change
Male 994,356 50.2% 0.7%
Female 984,351 49.8% 0.6%
A higher population often means more rental variety and livelier areas. The gender balance—how many men live here compared to women—can reveal a lot about the community and the lifestyles of its residents. Use this info to get a sense of the area's pace and personality.

Age demographics

The median age in Nebraska is 37, with the population distributed as follows: about 20.2% are children under 15, then 14.1% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 25.9% of the population, while another 23.1% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 16.7% are 65 or older.

Median age
37.2
Age breakdown
Under 15
20.2%
15 to 24
14.1%
25 to 44
25.9%
45 to 64
23.1%
Over 65
16.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 399,440 20.2% -0.4%
15 to 24 278,857 14.1% 1.5%
25 to 44 513,230 25.9% 0.8%
45 to 64 456,375 23.1% -0.6%
Over 65 330,805 16.7% 2.7%
The age composition helps you get insight into who lives in the area. A younger population might mean a more active, fast-paced vibe, while an older one could suggest a quieter, slower lifestyle. If there's a balanced makeup, you’re likely to find a variety of services, housing types, and community spaces that cater to different life stages.

Racial makeup

In Nebraska, 91% of the population are US-born citizens, while 4.4% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 4.6% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 77.9% of locals are Caucasian, 4.8% are African American and 2.6% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 9.1% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
91%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
4.4%
Non-citizens
4.6%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 1,800,687 91% 0.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 86,247 4.4% 5.0%
Non-citizens 91,773 4.6% 5.7%
Racial breakdown
White
77.9%
Black or African American
4.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1%
Asian
2.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
9.1%
Other
4.6%
Value Percent
White 1,540,812 77.9%
Black or African American 94,131 4.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native 20,618 1%
Asian 50,997 2.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 1,043 0%
Two or more races 179,420 9.1%
Other 91,686 4.6%

Households in Nebraska

A peek inside Nebraska households

Nebraska has 797,847 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 62.7% are families, while the remaining 37.3% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
797,847
1.4% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
297,831
Family households
500,016
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 297,831 37.3% 2.2%
Family households 500,016 62.7% 0.9%
The mix between family and non-family households gives a glimpse into daily life. A higher percentage of families might mean more parks and schools, while more non-family setups can mean flexible housing and diverse living styles. For renters, this can signal what kinds of homes are common and can help you figure out if the area matches your lifestyle.

Housing in Nebraska

The housing landscape of Nebraska

Nebraska's housing consists of 863,444 units, with 71.3% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 4% and offer a more compact, shared living style. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 2.9% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
863,444
0.9% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 615,689 71.3%
1 unit, attached 35,008 4%
2 units 16,024 1.9%
3 or 4 units 21,318 2.5%
5 to 9 units 36,165 4.2%
10 to 19 units 43,020 5%
20 to 49 units 34,607 4%
50 or more units 36,170 4.2%
Mobile home 25,075 2.9%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 368 0%
Homes built since 2020
15,654
74.6% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Nebraska

In Nebraska, the median construction year is 1975. About 18.7% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 4.3% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 11.6% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 9.5% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.8% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 161,475 18.7% 0.3%
Built between 1940 and 1949 37,205 4.3% -2.2%
Built between 1950 and 1959 77,447 9% -1.1%
Built between 1960 and 1969 89,229 10.3% -1.5%
Built between 1970 and 1979 128,536 14.9% -1.6%
Built between 1980 and 1989 81,803 9.5% 2.4%
Built between 1990 and 1999 90,093 10.4% -2.1%
Built between 2000 and 2009 99,944 11.6% 1.3%
Built between 2010 and 2019 82,058 9.5% 6.0%
Built in 2020 or later 15,654 1.8% 74.6%
As a renter, knowing when homes were built helps you understand the potential condition and design of rental units. Newer builds may have more contemporary layouts, while older homes can offer character or larger lots, depending on the area.

Nebraska occupancy rates

Out of the 797,847 occupied housing units in Nebraska, 66.5% are owner-occupied, while 33.5% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 7.6% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
797,847
1.4% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
266,969
Owner occupied
530,878
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 266,969 33.5% 1.4%
Owner occupied 530,878 66.5% 1.4%
Unoccupied housing units
7.6%
Unoccupied housing units refer to homes that are currently without residents—whether they're waiting for renters or owners, used seasonally, or simply unclaimed. A higher share of empty homes may mean more housing availability, while a low number can reflect a tighter market with more competition. This, along with the renter-vs.-owner mix, helps paint a clearer picture of what types of housing and services are likely to be available in the area.

Nebraska housing costs

Housing costs in Nebraska come to a median of $1,157 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,072.

Median housing costs per month
$1,157/month
This figure sums up typical monthly housing costs for all households in the area. If you own, it includes mortgage payments in addition to property taxes, insurance and HOA fees. If you rent, it accounts for rent plus extras like utilities. It’s useful for seeing how local living expenses stack up compared to other places.
Median gross rent in Nebraska
$1,072/month
Gross rent gives a more complete look at what renters actually pay, including not just base rent, but also utilities and fees. It’s a key number for evaluating rental affordability in your area of interest and understanding how it compares to nearby locations.

Education in Nebraska

Nebraska education at a glance

About 30.7% of the population in Nebraska went to high school, while 23.6% pursued college studies. Another 10.4% earned an associate degree and 21% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 10.8% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 52,062 3.5% 2.2%
High school diploma 458,584 30.7% 0.7%
College diploma 353,103 23.6% -0.8%
Associate degree 154,873 10.4% 1.4%
Bachelor's degree 314,019 21% 1.0%
Graduate degree 161,317 10.8% 4.0%
A community’s education mix can offer insights into the local economy and housing market. Higher levels of education often align with more job opportunities and stable incomes, which can increase demand for homes and influence both rent prices and rental availability.

Income in Nebraska

How much people earn in Nebraska

The average annual household income in Nebraska was $102,399 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.2% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $76,475, reflecting a +2% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Nebraska
$102,399/year
2.2% year-over-year change
Median household income in Nebraska
$76,475/year
2.0% year-over-year change

Nebraska income by age

In Nebraska, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $87,922. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $94,267 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $43,848, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $56,015 in earnings. Overall, 89.4% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $43,848 4.3%
25 - 44 $87,922 3.3%
45 - 64 $94,267 2.9%
Over 65 $56,015 1.7%
Above poverty level
1,705,107
Below poverty level
201,579
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 1,705,107 89.4% 0.3%
Below poverty level 201,579 10.6% 3.8%

Employment in Nebraska

Workforce and job types in Nebraska

The job market in Nebraska is powered by 1,024,674 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 76% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 24% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 11% run their own businesses, 64.2% are employed by private companies, and 15% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
1,024,674
0.6% year-over-year change
White collar
779,251
Blue collar
245,423
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 779,251 76% 0.8%
Blue collar 245,423 24% -0.3%
Employer type
Self employees
11%
Private companies
64.2%
Governmental workers
15%
Not for profit companies
9.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 112,646 11% 1.4%
Private companies 657,488 64.2% 0.1%
Governmental workers 154,109 15% 1.6%
Not for profit companies 100,431 9.8% 0.8%
Unemployment rate
3.0%
2.0% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Nebraska stands at 3%, representing the share of the workforce currently without a job and actively looking for one.

For renters, the unemployment rate helps paint a picture of job security and financial stability in the area. Rates around 4% to 5% are considered typical. A lower-than-average rate might suggest strong job prospects and a thriving local economy, while a higher rate could hint at fewer opportunities—both useful to consider when planning a move.

Transportation in Nebraska

How people get around in Nebraska

In Nebraska, the average commute time is 19 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 84.7% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.3% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
19 min
0.5% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 858,906 84.7% -0.8%
Taxicab 1,198 0.1% 58.5%
Bus or trolleybus 4,529 0.4% -11.7%
Subway or elevated 56 0% N/A
Railroad 45 0% 60.7%
Ferryboat 110 0% 15.8%
Motorcycle 948 0.1% -5.4%
Bicycle 3,362 0.3% 12.7%
Walk 23,584 2.3% 0.1%
Understanding how locals get to work can help you plan your own routine. High car usage might mean you’ll need a vehicle, while strong public transit or walkability could save you the hassle. Commute times also play a big role in quality of life—shorter trips can give you more time for the things you enjoy.

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FAQs about Nebraska demographics 

What is the total population of Nebraska?

Nebraska has a total population of 1,978,707 residents, according to the latest release from the U.S. Census Bureau: the 2019-2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates. This figure changed by +0.7% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Nebraska?

The gender ratio in Nebraska is as follows:
  • 50.2% males (994,356 residents)
  • 49.8% females (984,351 residents)

What is the median age in Nebraska?

The median age in Nebraska is 37.2.

What is the age distribution of the population in Nebraska?

The age distribution in Nebraska is as follows:
  • Under 15: 20.2% (399,440 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 14.1% (278,857 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 25.9% (513,230 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 23.1% (456,375 residents)
  • Over 65: 16.7% (330,805 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Nebraska?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Nebraska is as follows:
  • White: 77.9% (1,540,812 residents)
  • Black or African American: 4.8% (94,131 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1% (20,618 residents)
  • Asian: 2.6% (50,997 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (1,043 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 9.1% (179,420 residents)
  • Other: 4.6% (91,686 residents)

What percentage of the population in Nebraska are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 91% of the population in Nebraska.

How many housing units are there in Nebraska?

There are 863,444 housing units in Nebraska, reflecting a +0.9% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Nebraska and what is the average household size?

Nebraska has a total of 797,847 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Nebraska?

Nebraska has a median household income of $76,475, representing a +2.0% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Nebraska?

The employment rate is 97% in Nebraska, with a workforce of 1,024,674 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 76% (779,251 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 24% (245,423 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 11% (112,646 residents)
  • Private companies: 64.2% (657,488 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 15% (154,109 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 9.8% (100,431 residents)

Data source & methodology

The demographic data on this page was sourced from the latest U.S. Census Bureau release—the 2019–2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates.

The information, issued annually, is compiled and published by the Point2Homes Research Team as soon as new data becomes available.

No representation, guarantee, or warranty is made concerning the accuracy or completeness of modified or aggregated information for particular areas.

Page last updated: September 2025