Ogallala, NE demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
4,777
-0.5% year-over-year change
Median household income
$58,556/yr
5.5% year-over-year change
Housing units
2,574
1.4% year-over-year change

Ogallala population

How many people live in Ogallala

Ogallala is home to 4,777 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.4% of Ogallala locals are male, and 51.6% are female.

Total population
4,777
-0.5% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.4%
2,314
Female
51.6%
2,463
Value Percent YoY change
Male 2,314 48.4% -0.7%
Female 2,463 51.6% -0.3%
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 Ogallala is 47, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.7% are children under 15, then 9.2% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 19.1% of the population, while another 27.4% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 25.7% are 65 or older.

Median age
47.1
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.7%
15 to 24
9.2%
25 to 44
19.1%
45 to 64
27.4%
Over 65
25.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 895 18.7% -3.1%
15 to 24 438 9.2% -2.9%
25 to 44 911 19.1% -3.7%
45 to 64 1,307 27.4% 2.2%
Over 65 1,226 25.7% 2.2%
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 Ogallala, 93.3% of the population are US-born citizens, while 5.3% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 82.4% of locals are Caucasian, 1.7% are African American and 1.2% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 10.4% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
93.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
5.3%
Non-citizens
1.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 4,455 93.3% -0.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 254 5.3% 6.7%
Non-citizens 68 1.4% 3.0%
Racial breakdown
White
82.4%
Black or African American
1.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.4%
Asian
1.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
10.4%
Other
3.9%
Value Percent
White 3,936 82.4%
Black or African American 80 1.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native 20 0.4%
Asian 58 1.2%
Two or more races 497 10.4%
Other 186 3.9%

Households in Ogallala

A peek inside Ogallala households

Ogallala has 2,406 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 54.1% are families, while the remaining 45.9% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
2,406
3.3% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
1,105
Family households
1,301
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,105 45.9% -12.7%
Family households 1,301 54.1% 22.3%
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 Ogallala

The housing landscape of Ogallala

Ogallala's housing consists of 2,574 units, with 76.9% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 2.5% 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 4.7% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
2,574
1.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 1,980 76.9%
1 unit, attached 64 2.5%
2 units 18 0.7%
3 or 4 units 167 6.5%
5 to 9 units 103 4%
10 to 19 units 56 2.2%
20 to 49 units 52 2%
50 or more units 14 0.5%
Mobile home 120 4.7%
Homes built since 2020
22
83.3% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Ogallala

In Ogallala, the median construction year is 1969. About 19.8% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 6.2% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 4.8% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 2.4% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.8% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 509 19.8% 1.6%
Built between 1940 and 1949 159 6.2% -5.4%
Built between 1950 and 1959 382 14.8% 44.7%
Built between 1960 and 1969 261 10.1% -18.4%
Built between 1970 and 1979 680 26.4% 8.1%
Built between 1980 and 1989 272 10.6% -8.7%
Built between 1990 and 1999 105 4.1% -30.9%
Built between 2000 and 2009 123 4.8% -14.0%
Built between 2010 and 2019 61 2.4% 17.3%
Built in 2020 or later 22 0.8% 83.3%
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.

Ogallala occupancy rates

Out of the 2,406 occupied housing units in Ogallala, 68.4% are owner-occupied, while 31.6% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 6.5% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
2,406
3.3% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
761
Owner occupied
1,645
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 761 31.6% -8.4%
Owner occupied 1,645 68.4% 9.8%
Unoccupied housing units
6.5%
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.

Ogallala housing costs

Housing costs in Ogallala come to a median of $821 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $667.

Median housing costs per month
$821/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 Ogallala
$667/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 Ogallala

Ogallala education at a glance

About 34.6% of the population in Ogallala went to high school, while 23.2% pursued college studies. Another 12% earned an associate degree and 17.7% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 6.8% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 213 5.8% 3.9%
High school diploma 1,278 34.6% -6.5%
College diploma 857 23.2% 0.0%
Associate degree 443 12% 7.0%
Bachelor's degree 656 17.7% 15.5%
Graduate degree 251 6.8% -11.9%
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 Ogallala

How much people earn in Ogallala

The average annual household income in Ogallala was $67,300 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +7.2% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $58,556, reflecting a +5.5% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Ogallala
$67,300/year
7.2% year-over-year change
Median household income in Ogallala
$58,556/year
5.5% year-over-year change

Ogallala income by age

In Ogallala, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $74,688. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $75,912 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $49,191, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $39,015 in earnings. Overall, 87.8% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $49,191 -10.8%
25 - 44 $74,688 20.1%
45 - 64 $75,912 4.3%
Over 65 $39,015 15.4%
Above poverty level
4,052
Below poverty level
565
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 4,052 87.8% 1.1%
Below poverty level 565 12.2% -8.9%

Average renter income in Ogallala

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Ogallala, their median household income was $30,455 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 26.3%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$30,455
Rent-to-income ratio
26.3%
Understanding the rent-to-income ratio can help renters gauge if local housing costs align with their earnings. A ratio under 30% usually signals affordability, while exceeding this mark means rent is taking a larger-than-recommended bite out of income. That could make it harder for you to cover other costs like transportation, healthcare, or child care.

Employment in Ogallala

Workforce and job types in Ogallala

The job market in Ogallala is powered by 2,299 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 71.2% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 28.8% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 18.9% run their own businesses, 59.2% are employed by private companies, and 15.1% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
2,299
3.0% year-over-year change
White collar
1,637
Blue collar
662
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 1,637 71.2% 0.2%
Blue collar 662 28.8% 10.5%
Employer type
Self employees
18.9%
Private companies
59.2%
Governmental workers
15.1%
Not for profit companies
6.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 435 18.9% -3.1%
Private companies 1,360 59.2% 5.0%
Governmental workers 348 15.1% 10.5%
Not for profit companies 156 6.8% -10.3%
Unemployment rate
3.0%
20.0% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Ogallala 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 Ogallala

How people get around in Ogallala

Commuting methods vary: 86.6% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 5.1% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 1,963 86.6% 0.3%
Motorcycle 6 0.3% 20.0%
Walk 115 5.1% 105.4%
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.

What is the median and average household income in Ogallala by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
69153 5,812 2,885 $61,946 $76,021

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FAQs about Ogallala demographics 

What is the total population of Ogallala?

Ogallala has a total population of 4,777 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 -0.5% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Ogallala?

The gender ratio in Ogallala is as follows:
  • 48.4% males (2,314 residents)
  • 51.6% females (2,463 residents)

What is the median age in Ogallala?

The median age in Ogallala is 47.1.

What is the age distribution of the population in Ogallala?

The age distribution in Ogallala is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.7% (895 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 9.2% (438 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 19.1% (911 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 27.4% (1,307 residents)
  • Over 65: 25.7% (1,226 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Ogallala?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Ogallala is as follows:
  • White: 82.4% (3,936 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1.7% (80 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.4% (20 residents)
  • Asian: 1.2% (58 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 10.4% (497 residents)
  • Other: 3.9% (186 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 93.3% of the population in Ogallala.

How many housing units are there in Ogallala?

There are 2,574 housing units in Ogallala, reflecting a +1.4% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Ogallala has a total of 2,406 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Ogallala?

Ogallala has a median household income of $58,556, representing a +5.5% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 97% in Ogallala, with a workforce of 2,299 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 71.2% (1,637 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 28.8% (662 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 18.9% (435 residents)
  • Private companies: 59.2% (1,360 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 15.1% (348 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 6.8% (156 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