10 Best Places To Call Home In Nebraska In 2025

For all of its wind and weather, Nebraska has much to offer in terms of comfort and convenience when you're looking for a place to relocate. With nearly a quarter of its population concentrated in Omaha, there is plenty of space to roam in some of the smaller towns and more rural areas, and the state median listing price of around $300K makes for a relatively affordable cost of living. Nebraska has plenty of tight-knit communities with a diverse range of amenities and attractions to consider. See below for just a few.

Chadron

The town of Chadron began as an outpost for the fur trade and has since grown and evolved into an excellent place to call home. For starters, the landscape surrounding Chadron is gorgeous, as you can see for yourself in Nebraska's first state park, Chadron State Park. Here, you will find a modern campground, swimming pool, trail rides, and best of all, it's open all year round.

Chadron also takes a lot of pride in its history. July marks the annual Fur Trade Days, when the town honors its heritage and celebrates its present and future. The festival features live music, a carnival, and a vibrant traders' market. In addition, you can also check out the Museum of the Fur Trade, which recounts the story of how Chadron got its name on the map. Median listing home prices of around $195,000 add to its allure, making this an affordable and inviting place to call home.

Valentine

Resting in the heart of Nebraska is Valentine, a small town with a big backyard. You can get a sense of this when visiting the Samuel R. McKelvie National Forest, a 115,000 acre forest that is just an hour's drive away. Many visit for trekking, weekend camping, and hunting. Other outdoor excursions include the Fort Niobrara Wildlife Refuge, which is home to various bison and elk as well as 230 species of birds.

There's also the Cowboy Trail, a multi-use trail with crushed limestone and wooden bridges that runs between Valentine and Norfolk, with plans of extending it all the way to Chadron. The trail provides ample opportunities for exercise in biking and walking, as well as great views of the landscape. For a slower pace, another great spot is Frederick Peak Golf Club, a unique 10-hole course with views of Frederick Peak, the golf club's namesake. And with median house listing prices consistent with the state average, there is good value in a move to Valentine.

Ogallala

Young or old, the town of Ogallala is a place people are drawn to for many different reasons, including access to quality health care and a mix of opportunities for entertainment and outdoor recreation. And with most homes selling for about $280,000, the price is a testament to how much people are willing to settle here.

In nearby Paxton, Ole's Big Game Steakhouse & Lounge is one of Nebraska's best-known watering holes, with hundreds of pictures and memorabilia alongside over 200 big game trophies. There's also an eagle viewing facility on Lake Ogallala, which opens from January to early March, where you can view bald eagles in large numbers. Then there is the biggest draw of all, Lake McConaughy, an area with 100 miles of white-sand shoreline and plenty of room to swim, boat, jet ski, camp, and fish.

South Sioux City

South Sioux City is equal parts charming and convenient, given its proximity to Sioux City in Iowa and Sioux Falls in South Dakota. It is the most expensive town on this list, with median house listing prices of around $325,000, owing to its desirability and the high quality of life enjoyed by its residents. In fact, top-tier education systems, a welcoming and inclusive community, and proven dedication to innovation have earned it the All-America City Award by the National Civic League.

This is all before considering the many things to do in and around South Sioux City. First, there are two scenic byways, namely the Lewis and Clark Scenic Byway and the Outlaw Trail. The Lewis and Clark Scenic Byway is a 131-mile trail from South Sioux City to Fort Calhoun featuring wooded bluffs, abundant croplands, and the Missouri River. Meanwhile, the Outlaw Trail is twice as long and has multiple stops at several small towns like Ponca, Hartington, and Crofton, not to mention beautiful scenery between urban destinations.

To fuel up before or after hitting the trails, there are several restaurants to enjoy, such as Rosie's Pizza, an unassuming local favorite. And if you want to take things even slower, the South Ridge Golf Course is a beautifully maintained 9-hole course that even veteran golf players can enjoy.

Aurora

Also slightly above the state median with listing prices of around $318,000, the town of Aurora truly deserves a closer look for its abundance of attractions and amenities. Home of the very first strobe light, Aurora's appeal is far-reaching, thanks to places like the Edgerton Explorit Center, where you can learn how the strobe light was invented alongside other unique, hands-on exhibits.

The Pioneer Trails are also iconic for various afternoon activities, like exploring the multiple trails, picnicking, biking, and camping. Meanwhile, the Leadership Center is a pillar of this community-minded town, regularly hosting art classes, workshops, and other immersive and engaging experiences at their local coffee shop as well as their conference facility.

North Platte

Located at the confluence of the South and North Platte Rivers, the town of North Platte is one of Nebraska's most scenic spots. And with median listing prices of around $233,000, the region's beauty and attractions are widely accessible. For starters, North Platte was home to Buffalo Bill, and there are several attractions dedicated to his legacy.

Naturally, there is the Buffalo Bill Ranch State Historical Park, where they've restored Buffalo Bill's home as well as barns and other buildings. Train lovers can also delight in the Cody Park Railroad Museum, which is the only place to publicly display the Challenger 3900 series steam locomotive. And then there is the Golden Spike Tower, offering a panoramic view of the Bailey Yard, the world's largest railyard. Taking the tour will reward you with a delicious meal, too.

Scottsbluff

Living in Scottsbluff gives you access to coveted Landmark Country. And with homes costing about $228,000, it's well worth the price. For example, Scottsbluff isn't far away from the iconic landmark, Scotts Bluff National Monument, complete with four miles of trails you can hike, or a 1.6-mile drive through Summit Road. Scotts Bluff National Monument also happens to be surrounded by another popular spot in the Lake Minatare State Recreation Area, a 2,158-acre area where you can swim, fish, camp, or boat. There's even a historic lighthouse. And if you're just looking to unwind close to home, the Midwest Theater offers movie screenings, as well as live theater and performing arts.

Hastings

Brimming with small-town charm and a strong sense of community, Hastings has all the makings of a great place to live. And when that's combined with the average house listing price of approximately $249,000, the unique experiences and access to recreation are a nice bonus. Hastings is a lovably quirky town. For example, the Bigfoot Crossroads of America Museum & Research Center blends history and science as the museum discusses the infamous Sasquatch and the researchers themselves.

On top of that, Hastings has multiple thriving businesses that provide quality goods at fair prices. An example is the Back Alley Bakery, which offers artisan breads made from wholesome ingredients with no preservatives. They also provide breakfast, lunch, and dessert. Pack it to go and enjoy a picnic at Highland Park, a 40 acre site with shelters, a playground, and a rainwater garden.

Norfolk

A lovely balance of urban and rural living, Norfolk is a town with a lot to offer. For starters, the town is a regional hub for shopping, healthcare, education, and affordability. And when it's combined with the average house listing price of about $312,000, it's well worth the cost.

Norfolk has activities ranging from a vibrant nightlife to plenty of access to outdoor recreation. Some notables are the Cowboy Trail, one of the longest rail-to-trail conversions in the United States, as well as Skyview Lake, which is used for all kinds of community activities, such as annual fireworks and fishing. Lastly, there's Pedal Therapy, Norfolk's first and only pedal pub, where you can tour downtown under your own pedal power while sipping drinks. It provides a nice communal experience and is a great way to see the town.

McCook

McCook enjoys a good mixture of affordability and convenience. With average housing listing prices of around $189,000 and a lot to offer in terms of shopping, history, and entertainment, McCook represents good value. Their annual Buffalo Commons Storytelling & Music Festival is a unique experience unlike any other. They even bring in a nationally renowned storyteller to perform for this event.

The Museum of the High Plains and Carnegie Library tell the story of McCook, as well as Southwest Nebraska, while providing temporary exhibits, ensuring each visit will always have something new to see and learn. And if that isn't enough, you can enjoy the surrounding area for all kinds of outdoor activities, such as birdwatching at Barnett Park.

While Nebraska's beauty is subtle compared to other western states, its affordability gives it an edge. When this accessibility is combined with vibrant communities, unique experiences, and gorgeous landscapes in their own way, Nebraska invites exploration and discovery. From state parks and national forests to museums, science centers, and even a pub on wheels, these small towns are waiting to welcome you home.