City Profile

Omaha, Nebraska

USA · Comprehensive city data and intelligence

Overall Score

Omaha, Nebraska, is the largest city in the state, situated along the Missouri River in the Midwestern United States. Known for its rich history as a hub for the railroad and meatpacking industries, Omaha has evolved into a modern economic center. Today, it is recognized as the home of several Fortune 500 companies, particularly in the finance and insurance sectors, earning it the nickname 'Gateway to the West' and a reputation as a significant business city. People are drawn to Omaha for its strong job market, relatively low cost of living compared to national averages, and a friendly, community-oriented atmosphere. The city offers a blend of urban amenities and Midwestern charm, making it an attractive destination for families, young professionals, and retirees alike.

About Nebraska

Nebraska, known as the "Cornhusker State," offers a blend of rural charm and urban opportunities with a strong sense of community. Its economy is deeply rooted in agriculture, particularly corn, soybeans, and cattle production, but also boasts growing sectors in manufacturing, finance, insurance, healthcare, and transportation. The cost of living in Nebraska is generally lower than the national average, primarily due to more affordable housing. The state experiences a continental climate with hot summers, cold and snowy winters, and significant seasonal temperature variations, with the eastern part being more humid and the western part semi-arid. Residents often enjoy a relaxed pace of life, friendly communities, and access to outdoor activities, though major entertainment and nightlife options are more concentrated in larger cities like Omaha and Lincoln.

Cost of Living Weather & Climate Jobs & Economy Quality of Life Safety Demographics Economy Transportation Healthcare Housing Nearby Cities Similar Cities FAQ

494,169

Population

$65K

Avg Salary

Cost Index

72.0

Quality Score

Performance

Quality Scores

Business

Livability

Affordability

Growth

Expenses

Cost of Living

The cost of living in Omaha is notably lower than the national average, making it an attractive option for many. In 2024, the cost of living was approximately 8.1% below the U.S. average. Housing costs are a primary driver of this affordability, with median home values and rents significantly lower than the national median. While utilities and transportation costs are generally reasonable, some services, like assisted living, can be higher than state averages. Overall, Omaha provides a good balance of affordability without sacrificing access to quality services and amenities.

Average Rent

$1,450/mo

Groceries

$400/mo

Transport

$120/mo

Utilities

$180/mo

Healthcare

$250/mo

Gym membership (monthly)

$45.00

Cinema ticket

$14.00

Restaurant meal (mid-range)

$20.00

Monthly groceries

$400.00

Doctor visit (without insurance)

$150.00

Income

Salary Insights

Omaha boasts a robust and diverse job market, with a low unemployment rate of 2.9% as of May 2026. The city's economy is primarily driven by major industries such as Healthcare & Social Assistance, Retail Trade, and Educational Services, which were the largest employers in 2024. Other significant sectors include Office and Administrative Support and Food Preparation and Serving Related occupations. Omaha is home to several Fortune 500 companies, particularly in the finance and insurance industries, providing a stable and varied employment landscape. The average annual salary in Omaha was reported at $65,465 in 2025, indicating a healthy earning potential for residents.

The average salary in Omaha is $65,465 per year. You would need approximately $55,000 to live comfortably.

Employment

Top Industries

Retail Trade Healthcare & Social Assistance Educational Services Office and Administrative Support Food Preparation and Serving Related

Weather

Climate

🌡️

Avg Temp

☀️

Summer High

❄️

Winter Low

🌧️

Annual Rain

💧

65.00%

Humidity

🌤️

Sunny Days

Mobility

Transport

Getting around Omaha primarily relies on personal vehicles, as indicated by its 'Car-Dependent' Walk Score of 47 and a 'Minimal Transit' Transit Score of 30. The average commute time for residents was 19.6 minutes in 2024, which is relatively short compared to many larger U.S. cities. While public transit options exist, they are not as extensive as in highly walkable or transit-rich cities. The city's traffic index was 30.00 as of mid-2026, suggesting moderate traffic congestion.

20 min

Avg Commute

30.00/10

Transit Score

47.00/10

Walkability

High

Car Dependency

At a Glance

Pros & Cons

Advantages

The cost of living in Omaha is 8.1% lower than the U.S. average, making it highly affordable.

Omaha boasts a low unemployment rate of 2.9% as of May 2026, indicating a strong job market.

The average commute time is relatively short at 19.6 minutes in 2024.

Median household income was $73,201 in 2024, reflecting healthy earning potential.

The city has a diverse and growing economy driven by key sectors like healthcare, finance, and education.

Drawbacks

Omaha has a 'Car-Dependent' Walk Score of 47 and 'Minimal Transit' Transit Score of 30, indicating limited public transportation and walkability options.

Assisted living costs in Omaha, at $6,150 per month in 2024, are higher than the state average.

The city experienced a slight population decline of 0.6% from April 2020 to mid-2025 according to one estimate, though other projections show growth.

While generally safe, like any major city, crime rates can be a concern in specific areas.

Specific job growth rates and new business formation rates for 2024+ were not consistently available, making it difficult to quantify recent economic momentum.

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