Largest cities in Nebraska

Access hyperlocal data to help you make a confident and informed decision.

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: 494,852 Livability Score: 84

Area Size: 357 KM² Density (sq mi): 3,591 Med. Household Income: $92,475

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: 293,945 Livability Score: 84

Area Size: 241 KM² Density (sq mi): 3,164 Med. Household Income: $87,788

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: 65,626 Livability Score: 88

Area Size: 43 KM² Density (sq mi): 3,960 Med. Household Income: $105,165

Grand Island Population: 53,008 Livability Score: 78

Area Size: 77 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,782 Med. Household Income: $82,879

Kearney Population: 34,543 Livability Score: 83

Area Size: 36 KM² Density (sq mi): 2,475 Med. Household Income: $92,300

Fremont Population: 26,939 Livability Score: 76

Area Size: 25 KM² Density (sq mi): 2,792 Med. Household Income: $81,760

Hastings Population: 25,424 Livability Score: 78

Area Size: 37 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,765 Med. Household Income: $79,586

Norfolk Population: 25,122 Livability Score: 78

Area Size: 28 KM² Density (sq mi): 2,336 Med. Household Income: $74,063

Papillion Population: 24,905 Livability Score: 85

Area Size: 22 KM² Density (sq mi): 2,914 Med. Household Income: $135,185

North Platte Population: 24,487 Livability Score: 74

Area Size: 34 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,850 Med. Household Income: $78,101

Full list of the largest cities in Nebraska

Rank	Location	Population	Area KM²	Median Income	Livability Score
1	Omaha	494,852	357	$92,475	84
2	Lincoln	293,945	241	$87,788	84
3	Bellevue	65,626	43	$105,165	88
4	Grand Island	53,008	77	$82,879	78
5	Kearney	34,543	36	$92,300	83
6	Fremont	26,939	25	$81,760	76
7	Hastings	25,424	37	$79,586	78
8	Norfolk	25,122	28	$74,063	78
9	Papillion	24,905	22	$135,185	85
10	North Platte	24,487	34	$78,101	74
11	Columbus	24,141	26	$87,157	80
12	La Vista	17,506	14	$106,165	80
13	Scottsbluff	15,165	16	$72,955	73
14	South Sioux City	13,187	16	$84,449	75
15	Beatrice	12,664	24	$62,585	80
16	Lexington	10,384	12	$84,460	74
17	Chalco	10,372	7	$112,191	79
18	Gering	8,421	11	$94,158	76
19	Alliance	8,330	13	$87,743	79
20	York	8,115	16	$87,578	79
21	Blair	8,063	14	$87,006	80
22	McCook	7,729	14	$67,985	76
23	Nebraska City	7,516	13	$83,248	80
24	Ralston	7,481	4	$88,252	81
25	Seward	7,363	11	$98,771	82
26	Crete	7,154	9	$71,302	73
27	Plattsmouth	6,681	9	$76,190	75
28	Sidney	6,673	19	$77,703	77
29	Schuyler	6,406	7	$95,136	77
30	Wayne	5,769	7	$71,399	77
31	Chadron	5,621	10	$70,926	75
32	Holdrege	5,575	11	$77,777	85
33	Offutt AFB	5,421	11	$93,004	82
34	Gretna	5,207	6	$102,675	82

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.