7 Best Towns In Nebraska For Retirees

If your idea of retirement includes peaceful mornings, tight-knit neighborhoods, and enough open space to breathe easily, Nebraska might surprise you. According to OnFocus, the Cornhusker State ranked first overall as the best state for retirees, thanks to its winning blend of affordability, dependable healthcare, low crime rates, and strong civic life. With 17.2% of its population aged 65 and over, Nebraska’s small towns are already tuned into the rhythm of retirement. Whether enjoying Arbor Day in Nebraska City or continuing a lifelong passion for learning in Wayne, these seven towns offer a slower pace without losing touch with the spirit that makes life worth living.

Ogallala

Ogallala has a balanced mix of reasonable home prices, care, and connection that makes it an attractive retirement spot in western Nebraska. With a median home value of $209,526 as of May 2025 as per Zillow, well below the state average of $271,934, downsizing here does not feel like a compromise. For those who prefer to skip the maintenance, WEL-Life Assisted Living provides a supportive and homey option right in town. Medical needs can be met locally at Ogallala Community Hospital, and day-to-day life unfolds at a pace that feels just right.

Retirees have no shortage of things to do in town. Lake McConaughy, the state’s largest reservoir, stretches 22 miles and is a popular site for fishing, boating, camping, and nature walks along its wide beaches. The Petrified Wood Gallery, created by twin brothers Howard and Harvey Kenfield, adds an unexpected touch of folk art and geology to the town. And the Mansion on the Hill, built in 1887, stands as a beautifully preserved piece of Victorian architecture filled with local history.

Falls City

With a median home listing price of just $129,000, Falls City is one of Nebraska’s most well-priced places to retire. That means more retirees can settle into comfortable homes without financial strain. The town also supports its older population with a dedicated Senior Citizens Center, which serves as a gathering place for meals, games, and community events. When healthcare is needed, the Community Medical Center is right in town and ready to assist.

Retirees will also find plenty to enjoy around Falls City. Stanton Lake Park is a top local destination, with wooded campsites, picnic areas, and a scenic lake perfect for a quiet day or an overnight stay. Art and history fans can explore the John Philip Falter Museum, which celebrates the work of the famed illustrator and participates in the annual “WanderNebraska” travel program. For a slower day, the Falls City Library and Art Center is a favorite hangout for seniors, having everything from curated exhibits to quiet reading nooks.

Wayne

Wayne is a small town in northeastern Nebraska where retirees can enjoy a fulfilling lifestyle and access to lifelong learning. The median home listing price in April 2025 was $265,000, making it an attractive place for retirement. Wayne State College's campus in town adds excitement and opportunities for continuing adult learning, should you desire.

Wayne also makes space for history, recreation, and quirky fun. The Wayne County Museum, located in the stately Rollie Ley mansion built in the 1890s, displays original woodwork, antiques, and artifacts from the area’s past. For those who enjoy golf, the Wayne Country Club features a scenic and well-kept 18-hole course. And each July, locals gather for the beloved Wayne Chicken Show—a lighthearted event filled with music, games, and community spirit that has been entertaining residents and visitors since 1981.

Cozad

Cozad is a peaceful town near the heart of Nebraska, where low living costs and community pride make it a standout for retirement. With an average home value of just $171,953, retirees can settle down while still enjoying access to health and wellness resources. The Cozad Community Wellness Center is a popular gathering spot, equipped with strength and cardio machines, a full gymnasium, and a variety of fitness classes tailored for all ages. Should any health concerns arise, the nearby Cozad Community Hospital provides quality care and peace of mind close to home.

The town’s cultural attractions add depth to daily life. The Robert Henri Museum, housed in the artist’s childhood home, features original works and gives insight into the life of this influential figure in American art. For those interested in history, the 100th Meridian Museum showcases rotating exhibits of early settler life, including rare photographs, vintage memorabilia, and even a historic Yellowstone Touring Coach. Seniors who enjoy the outdoors and light recreation often head to the Cozad Country Club, a relaxed and friendly 18-hole course perfect for a morning on the green.

Chadron

Nestled in Nebraska’s Pine Ridge region, Chadron stands out as a welcoming town where retirees can enjoy both natural beauty and meaningful cultural experiences. With homes averaging around $188,599, settling here is financially sensible. Those who enjoy reading can take advantage of the Chadron Public Library, while Chadron State Park delivers a full slate of recreational options, including horseback riding, hiking, fishing, disc golf, and even paddleboat rentals. The park also features a large swimming pool, sand volleyball, and cabins for weekend getaways with visiting family or friends.

For those who enjoy exploring history, Chadron is home to two standout institutions. The Museum of the Fur Trade displays more than 6,000 rare pieces from one of America’s most dynamic eras, ranging from authentic trade goods to early Native American jewelry. Meanwhile, the Mari Sandoz High Plains Heritage Center offers a deep look at the life and work of one of Nebraska’s most important authors, while showcasing the landscapes and cultures that shaped her stories.

Nebraska City

Arbor Day is not just a date on the calendar in Nebraska City, it is part of everyday life. The birthplace of this tree-planting tradition, Nebraska City, is where the Arbor Day Foundation was established, and its message continues to thrive at Arbor Day Farm. Spread across 260 scenic acres, the farm is a place where nature and history intersect. Retirees can explore the interactive Tree Adventure, browse local goods at the Apple House Market, walk the historic grounds of Arbor Lodge State Historical Park, or stay at the elegant Lied Lodge. More than just a tourist site, the farm is a living testament to the enduring importance of trees. Around town, there is plenty more for retirees to enjoy. The Kregel Windmill Factory Museum feels like stepping into the past, with its remarkably preserved workshop and early 20th-century tools. History lovers can also explore Arbor Lodge itself, the former estate of J. Sterling Morton, where period furnishings and family memorabilia tell the story of the man behind Arbor Day. Nebraska City is also home to Kimmel Orchard & Vineyard, a favorite spot during harvest season, with fresh produce, cider tastings, and family events.

Buying a home here does not require breaking the bank either. With average home values hovering around $197,492, retirees can settle into a comfortable lifestyle surrounded by parks, trails, and quiet neighborhoods. And if assisted living care is needed, Morton Memory Care provides attentive assistance for those needing memory support, along with help in daily routines.

Scottsbluff

Not everyone dreams of retiring by the ocean—some prefer wide-open skies, peaceful trails, and crisp High Plains air. Scottsbluff brings all that and more. This welcoming town of around 15,000 sits in the western part of the state and is perfect for those who enjoy the outdoors without the noise of larger cities. One of its biggest draws is the Monument Valley Pathway, a 12.8-mile trail giving walkers and cyclists an unforgettable route past bluffs, along the river, and through open prairie. It is a moderate challenge with big rewards, with scenery that shifts with the seasons and a calm that is hard to find elsewhere. Another local gem is the Riverside Discovery Center, a small but thoughtful zoo emphasizing conservation and education. With a mix of animals, botanical gardens, and hands-on learning spaces. For a quiet moment of reflection, Rebecca Winters Memorial Park stands just outside town. The site honors a young mother who died of cholera along the Oregon Trail, her grave now a poignant reminder of the region’s pioneer past.

Buying a home in Scottsbluff is surprisingly reasonable, with average values hovering around $176,788. Seniors looking for supportive housing options can turn to The Village at Regional West, a retirement community next to the town’s main medical center that offers both independent and assisted living.

Wrapping Up

Retirement is a time to slow down and truly enjoy life, and Nebraska makes that easy. These seven towns offer a peaceful lifestyle, friendly neighbors, and plenty of activities to keep things interesting. Whether it is walking a scenic trail in Scottsbluff, touring an art and history museum in Falls City, or enjoying the tree-planting tradition in Nebraska City, each place brings something distinctive to the table. With affordable housing, quality healthcare, and welcoming senior communities, these Nebraska towns give retirees everything they need to settle in comfortably and live each day with purpose and enjoyment.