Cost of Living in Lincoln, NE
Population 291,932 · Nebraska · Data vintage 2023
(100 = US avg)
Most of Lincoln's cost indicators track within a reasonable band of national figures, with median household incomes near $69,991 — a more representative starting point for relocation math than the headline-expensive or headline-cheap cities on either tail.
Cost Overview
Scale: 100 = US national average. Green < 90, Red > 110.
About the Cost of Living in Lincoln
The median home value in Lincoln is $248,200 — 19% below the national median of $305,000. Median rent runs $1,045/month, 20% lower than the national median of $1,314/month. The median household income of $69,991/year is 6% lower than the US median of $74,580. The local unemployment rate is 3.3%, below the national average of 4.8%. Nebraska's top state income tax rate is 5.8% and the combined sales tax is 6.9%. Overall, Lincoln has a cost of living index of 81 versus the US average of 100, meaning it is 19% less expensive.
🏠 Housing
HUD Fair Market Rents by Bedroom
💰 Estimated Monthly Budget
Estimates based on median data and national averages. Actual costs vary.
🛒 Food & Groceries
National BLS average prices (2023). Local prices may vary.
🚗 Transportation
Commute Mode
⚡ Utilities
📋 Taxes
💼 Income & Employment
🎓 Education
👥 Demographics
💨 Air Quality
EPA AQS 2023 — county-level monitoring data
🏫 Schools
NCES CCD 2019 — public school district data
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Lincoln, NE?
Lincoln has a cost index of 81 (100 = national average). It is 19% below the national average.
What is average rent in Lincoln, NE?
The median gross rent in Lincoln is $1,045 per month based on 2023 Census data.
What is the average home price in Lincoln?
The median home value in Lincoln is $248,200 according to Zillow and Census data.
What is the median income in Lincoln?
The median household income in Lincoln is $69,991 per year (2023 ACS 5-year estimates).
What is the sales tax in Lincoln, NE?
The combined state and local sales tax rate in Lincoln is 6.9%. The Nebraska state income tax top rate is 5.8%.
Is Lincoln, NE affordable?
Yes, Lincoln is generally considered affordable, with a cost of living index of 81 — about 19% below the US national average of 100.
Lincoln at a Glance
- Population
- 291,932
- Median Income
- $69,991
- Home Value
- $248,200
- Median Rent
- $1,045/mo
- Unemployment
- 3.3%
- Sales Tax
- 6.9%
Compare Lincoln
Explore county-level cost of living data
Nebraska Rankings
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