Largest cities in Nebraska

Nebraska, known for its wide-open spaces and agricultural heritage, is a state that offers a high quality of life and a strong sense of community. With a population of approximately 1.9 million, it ranks as the 37th most populated state in the U.S. Nebraska has experienced stable population growth, reflecting its appealing living conditions and economic opportunities. Bordered by South Dakota to the north, Iowa and Missouri to the east, Kansas to the south, and Colorado and Wyoming to the west, Nebraska offers a variety of living environments across its roughly 530 cities and towns.

Living in Nebraska provides residents with numerous benefits, including a low cost of living, excellent schools, and a rich cultural scene. The state's low population density allows for spacious living and a slower pace of life, with ample opportunities for outdoor activities and community engagement. Nebraska's economy is diverse, with strengths in agriculture, manufacturing, and technology. The state's stable population growth supports a balanced and sustainable development path. The AreaVibes list of the largest cities in Nebraska, is compiled using data from the United States Census Bureau's American Community Survey, highlights Nebraska cities by population, showcasing the state's most significant urban centers.

Omaha Population: 479,529 Livability Score: 83

Area Size: 357 KM² Density (sq mi): 3,365 Med. Household Income: $62,213

Omaha, NE, known as 'The Gateway to the West,' offers a unique blend of Midwestern charm and modern amenities. Located in eastern Nebraska, Omaha is a large city that serves as a major cultural and economic hub. Major nearby cities like Lincoln and Council Bluffs enhance its status as a central point in the region. Omaha's blend of historic landmarks, cultural festivals, and urban amenities creates a distinctive living experience.

Lincoln Population: 286,388 Livability Score: 84

Area Size: 241 KM² Density (sq mi): 2,932 Med. Household Income: $60,063

Lincoln, NE, known as 'The Star City,' offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern urban amenities. Located in southeastern Nebraska, Lincoln is a large city that serves as the state capital and a major cultural and economic hub. Major nearby cities like Omaha and Kansas City enhance its status as a central point in the region. Lincoln's blend of historic landmarks, cultural festivals, and urban amenities creates a distinctive living experience.

Bellevue Population: 63,970 Livability Score: 87

Area Size: 43 KM² Density (sq mi): 2,977 Med. Household Income: $70,647

Grand Island Population: 51,250 Livability Score: 78

Area Size: 77 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,703 Med. Household Income: $56,513

Kearney Population: 33,783 Livability Score: 83

Area Size: 36 KM² Density (sq mi): 2,284 Med. Household Income: $60,755

Fremont Population: 26,362 Livability Score: 74

Area Size: 25 KM² Density (sq mi): 2,442 Med. Household Income: $54,291

Hastings Population: 24,878 Livability Score: 78

Area Size: 37 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,670 Med. Household Income: $52,747

Norfolk Population: 24,410 Livability Score: 79

Area Size: 28 KM² Density (sq mi): 2,087 Med. Household Income: $49,280

Papillion Population: 24,310 Livability Score: 85

Area Size: 22 KM² Density (sq mi): 2,067 Med. Household Income: $90,000

North Platte Population: 23,734 Livability Score: 74

Area Size: 34 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,755 Med. Household Income: $52,653

Full list of the largest cities in Nebraska

Rank	Location	Population	Area KM²	Median Income	Livability Score
1	Omaha	479,529	357	$62,213	83
2	Lincoln	286,388	241	$60,063	84
3	Bellevue	63,970	43	$70,647	87
4	Grand Island	51,250	77	$56,513	78
5	Kearney	33,783	36	$60,755	83
6	Fremont	26,362	25	$54,291	74
7	Hastings	24,878	37	$52,747	78
8	Norfolk	24,410	28	$49,280	79
9	Papillion	24,310	22	$90,000	85
10	North Platte	23,734	34	$52,653	74
11	Columbus	23,291	26	$57,919	80
12	La Vista	17,081	14	$70,184	79
13	Scottsbluff	14,660	16	$49,182	75
14	South Sioux City	12,867	16	$56,744	75
15	Beatrice	12,282	24	$42,103	79
16	Chalco	10,092	7	$76,250	77
17	Lexington	10,069	12	$55,913	74
18	Gering	8,179	11	$62,764	75
19	Alliance	8,139	13	$57,898	77
20	Blair	7,830	14	$57,274	80
21	York	7,810	16	$58,125	80
22	McCook	7,555	14	$44,961	73
23	Ralston	7,305	4	$60,106	80
24	Nebraska City	7,270	13	$56,947	77
25	Seward	7,210	11	$66,190	83
26	Crete	7,013	9	$47,022	76
27	Plattsmouth	6,453	9	$50,680	73
28	Sidney	6,451	19	$51,880	72
29	Schuyler	6,269	7	$64,657	77
30	Wayne	5,603	7	$47,054	76
31	Chadron	5,482	10	$48,344	75
32	Holdrege	5,406	11	$53,241	87
33	Offutt AFB	5,280	11	$61,602	81
34	Gretna	5,039	6	$69,592	80

Methodology

To compile the list of the largest cities in Nebraska, AreaVibes used census data from the United States Census Bureau's American Community Survey (ACS). The American Community Survey releases updated estimates annually, offering a valuable resource for understanding the evolving dynamics within communities. These estimates are crucial for officials, community leaders, businesses, and local residents as they provide insights into demographic, economic, and social changes. By analyzing ACS data, stakeholders can make informed decisions, plan for future developments, and address the needs of their communities effectively. The detailed population information from the ACS helps track trends, allocate resources, and implement policies that enhance the quality of life for all residents.

Map of the population Density by State

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The map above serves as an excellent tool for discovering the most and least densely populated states across the United States. By highlighting both the states with the highest and lowest population density, it offers a comprehensive view of the nation's demographic landscape. This visual representation allows users to easily compare different regions, making it a valuable resource for anyone considering relocation or investment opportunities. Living in high density states could give you access to the following benefits: additional economic opportunities, enhanced amenities, improved health care, better infrastructure and technological advancement. Less densely poupulated states on the other hand, often have a lower cost of living, reduced traffic, closer-knit communities, abundant natural spaces and lower crime rates.