At a Glance
Pros & Cons
Blair
Lincoln
Advantages
Lincoln's cost of living is approximately 6% lower than the national average, driven by more affordable housing and utilities.
The city boasts a low unemployment rate of 2.6% as of May 2026, significantly lower than the national average.
Lincoln has a shorter average commute time of 19.5 minutes, saving residents time compared to the national average.
The city is recognized for its exceptional public safety, with Part 1 crime reaching a 25-year low in 2025.
Over 40% of adults in Lincoln have a bachelor's degree, indicating a highly educated workforce.
Drawbacks
While overall cost of living is lower, healthcare costs in Lincoln are about 3% higher than the U.S. average.
Lincoln's employment and wage growth rates have been nearly identical to Omaha's, which have been slower than comparable cities.
Public transportation options, while affordable, have a limited reach around the city.
The state of Nebraska, including Lincoln, has experienced low population and labor force growth due to people relocating to other states.
Some goods and services in Lincoln are approximately 4% pricier than the national average.
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Key figures side by side — see which city wins each category at a glance.
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