Why Omaha and Lincoln Are the Perfect Places to Call Home in 2025
As we kick off the new year, let's take a moment to highlight some of the great reasons to call Nebraska home! Omaha and Lincoln have been earning national recognition as top cities for relocation. We've gathered insights from various sources to show how these cities are ranking nationwide—and why they’re such fantastic options for those looking to move.
According to Lexie Pelchen of Forbes, Omaha ranks #1 in the 'Top 5 Best Cities to Move to in 2024' and received a perfect score of 100 out of 100 based on their point system. Here are some statistics and factors that contributed to this top rating (2024 data):
· Reasonable median monthly housing cost of $1,188 and a median family income of $69,198.
· 117 sunny days per year
· 98% unemployment rate
· Strong job market
· Abundant opportunities for career advancement
· Fairly low crime rate with 40 out of 1,000 residents impacted
Similar confirmation of Omaha’s desirability was highlighted in an article, 'The Top US Cities,' by Han Lung of CRE Daily. Lung writes: Omaha is one of the most affordable cities on this list, with home prices 20% below the national average and a home-price-to-income ratio 24% lower than typical markets. It’s also home to several Fortune 500 companies that provide stable, well-paying jobs, keeping the unemployment rate below 3%. These factors make Omaha a compelling choice for young families and professionals looking to stretch their budgets.
It's exciting to see yet a THIRD article highlighting Omaha’s high national ranking. In her article, 'The 15 Best Up-and-Coming U.S. Cities in 2025,' Jaime Dunaway-Seale of Realestatewitch.com ranks Omaha #6. Dunaway-Seale cites these reasons for her rating:
· One of the most affordable cities for home buyers
· Home-price-to-income ration of 3.5 (which was the second-lowest ratio among the top 15 and 24% lower than the national average of 4.6%
· Home of several Fortune 500 companies
· Low unemployment rate – 34% lower than national rate
· Higher than average salaries
· Median household income approximately 5% more than national median
· Home prices 20% lower than the national average
Not only did Omaha rank highly in 2 of these articles, but Lincoln made a strong showing as well. Lung writes: Lincoln combines the economic stability of the University of Nebraska with a burgeoning tech sector that has attracted significant investment. The city enjoys a low unemployment rate of just 2.6% and housing costs that are 21% below the national average, making it a haven for families and young professionals. Its mix of job opportunities and affordable living has solidified its place on the list of rising markets.
Lincoln ranked higher than Omaha, coming in at #3 in Dunaway-Seale’s ranking. Seale refers to Lincoln as an 'A-Maize-ing City,' likely a playful nod to the Cornhusker theme. This is what she had to say about Lincoln: With restaurants, bars, boutiques, and entertainment venues, Lincoln has everything a young population could want. The average resident is 35 years — the 10th youngest among the top 50 cities. This little town on the prairie has a bright future. As home to the University of Nebraska, the state's flagship educational institution, Lincoln equips the next generation of workers to succeed in the local job market and beyond. Lincoln has a number of tech companies, and with 42% of the adult population 25 and older holding a bachelor's degree, CEOs are eager to hire from the local talent pool. The unemployment rate in Lincoln is the sixth lowest among the top 50 cities at just 2.6%, compared to 4.6% nationwide. Students flock to the city to attend the University of Nebraska, but they stay for the low cost of living. The typical home costs about $285,600, which is nearly 21% less than the national average cost of $359,892.
As we look ahead to 2025 and beyond, it’s clear that Nebraska is becoming an increasingly attractive place for those considering a move. Both Omaha and Lincoln offer a unique blend of affordability, economic stability, and quality of life that’s hard to beat. Whether you're drawn by affordable housing, thriving job markets, or the vibrant community atmosphere, these cities have a lot to offer. From young professionals seeking career opportunities to families searching for a welcoming, well-connected community, Nebraska is proving to be an ideal place to plant roots and enjoy a fulfilling lifestyle. So, if you're looking for a fresh start in a city that combines the best of both worlds—urban amenities and a relaxed pace of life—Nebraska may be the perfect place for you to call home.
Sandi Downing Real Estate/Keller Williams
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