Lincoln, Nebraska
University town with capital charm
U.S. News (2025)
#46 Best Places to Live
Livability (2025)
#18 Top 100 Best Places to Live
WhereAtHome Score
78.7
C+out of 100
Overview
Lincoln combines the energy of University of Nebraska with state capital employment stability. The city offers very affordable housing, low crime, and a growing downtown. Strong community spirit around Husker football creates a unique sense of place.
Key Highlights
- University of Nebraska flagship campus
- State capital with stable government employment
- Very affordable housing market
- Low crime rates
- Haymarket District dining and entertainment
- Passionate Husker football culture
Key Metrics
2024 Presidential Election
Lancaster County (county-level results)
Source: County-level results from MIT Election Data + Science Lab. Learn more
Climate
Summer High
88°F
Winter Low
14°F
Annual Rainfall
28"
Sunny Days
219
Amenities & Infrastructure
131+ Parks
Green spaces and recreation
3 Major Hospitals
Healthcare access
2 Universities
Higher education institutions
Public Transit Available
Bus, rail, or metro service
Major Employers
Score Breakdown
6 of 6 score factors available. Missing factors are excluded and available weights are rescaled.
Median home value relative to national average (Weight: 20%)
How affordable housing is relative to local incomes (Weight: 20%)
Average commute time compared to national average (Weight: 15%)
Overall crime levels based on FBI crime statistics (Weight: 20%)
Walk Score — ease of daily errands on foot (Weight: 15%)
Median income relative to national average, adjusted for cost of living (Weight: 10%)
Location
Compare with another city
Start ComparisonLast Updated: 2026-07-01
Data sourced from U.S. Census Bureau, Zillow, FBI Crime Data Explorer, Walk Score, and Niche.
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