Cost of Living in Omaha, NE

Key Statistics

See what your Omaha salary is worth in another city:

Living in Omaha, NE — 2026 Cost of Living Guide

Omaha is one of the most affordable major cities in the United States, with an overall cost of living index of 85. This means living in Omaha is approximately 15% less expensive than the national average.

Housing Costs in Omaha

Housing costs are significantly below the national average, making it an attractive option for homebuyers and renters alike. The housing index for Omaha is 78, which means housing costs are 22% below the national average. This includes both rental prices and home purchase costs in the metropolitan area.

Income and Employment

The median household income in Omaha is $58,290, with a population of approximately 486,051. The median household income is moderate, providing a reasonable standard of living relative to local costs.

The job market in Omaha is solid, with steady growth in several key sectors and reasonable unemployment rates.

Daily Living Expenses

Beyond housing, daily expenses in Omaha are below the national average. Groceries and dining carry an index of 94, while transportation costs sit at 92. Healthcare expenses index at 95, and utilities come in at 88.

Taxes

Taxes in Omaha are roughly average, with a tax index of 95.

Quality of Life

The weather in Omaha is typical for its region, with distinct seasons and moderate conditions for most of the year.

Safety in Omaha is comparable to other cities of similar size, with some neighborhoods being safer than others.

Is Omaha a Good Place to Live?

Omaha offers strong value for those looking to stretch their dollar further without sacrificing too much in terms of amenities and opportunities. With a good job market and fair weather, Omaha continues to attract new residents drawn by the favorable cost of living.

Related Financial Tools