Nelson, NE
Population 478 · Nebraska
About Nelson, NE
Nelson is a small community located in Nebraska with a population of 478 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $54,408 per year, which is 28% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 58.4 years is notably older the US median age of 38.9 years, suggesting a more established community with a higher proportion of long-term residents.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Nelson features a median home value of $72,900, which is 70% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Nelson one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $620, 47% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 312 total housing units, 89% are owner-occupied (218 units) and 11% are renter-occupied (27 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Nelson shows an unemployment rate of 0.0%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 7.8%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Nelson have an average one-way commute time of 23.3 minutes.
Education & Demographics
18.8% of Nelson residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The lower educational attainment rate may reflect the area's industry mix, with more employment in trades, manufacturing, or agricultural sectors. The community's demographic composition includes 10.5% White, 4.6% Hispanic or Latino, 1.3% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 1.7% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Nelson, NE
Compared to national averages, Nelson has a median household income of $54,408 (28% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $72,900, which is 70% below the national median. Monthly rent at $620 is 47% below the US average of $1,163. Within Nebraska, Nelson's income is 17% below the state average of $65,895, and home values are 42% below the state median of $125,824.
Why Live in Nelson, NE?
Nelson offers affordable housing with a median home value of $72,900, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $620/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 0.0%. Additionally, the city features a low poverty rate of 7.8%, better than the national average, and short commute times averaging just 23.3 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($54,408) that falls below the national average. However, Nelson’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Nelson has a population of 478 with a median age of 58.4 years. Compare Nelson with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Nebraska.
Similar Cities Near Nelson
Cities in Nebraska with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Big Springs | 479 | $63,750 | $94,900 | Compare |
| Cedar Rapids | 484 | $50,125 | $77,800 | Compare |
| Dalton | 470 | $65,000 | $89,500 | Compare |
| Trenton | 468 | $47,500 | $67,600 | Compare |
| Giltner | 491 | $75,833 | $191,100 | Compare |
| Hampton | 493 | $80,208 | $174,500 | Compare |
| Beaver City | 494 | $40,625 | $65,300 | Compare |
| Bellwood | 460 | $70,795 | $116,000 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Nebraska
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare Nelson With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Nelson
What is the population of Nelson, NE?
The population of Nelson, NE is 478 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small community in Nebraska.
What is the median household income in Nelson?
The median household income in Nelson, NE is $54,408 per year, which is 28% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Nelson?
The median home value in Nelson, NE is $72,900, which is 70% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Nelson?
The median monthly rent in Nelson, NE is $620, which is 47% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Nelson?
The unemployment rate in Nelson, NE is 0.0%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Nelson, NE a good place to live?
Nelson offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 478 and a median age of 58.4, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Nelson, NE?
18.8% of residents in Nelson aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The educational profile reflects the area's industry mix and employment landscape.
What is the cost of living in Nelson?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Nelson, NE: median home value is $72,900 (70% below national), median rent is $620/month, and median household income is $54,408. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.3x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Nelson?
The poverty rate in Nelson, NE is 7.8%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Nelson, NE?
Nelson's population is 10.5% White, 4.6% Hispanic or Latino, 1.3% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.4% two or more races. 1.7% of residents are foreign-born.