Nelson, NE
Population 478 · Nebraska
About Nelson, NE
Nelson is a small community in Nebraska with a population of 478 residents. The median household income is $54,408 per year, which is near the national average. The median age in Nelson is 58.4 years.
Housing in Nelson has a median home value of $72,900 and median monthly rent of $620. Of the 312 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 218 owner-occupied and 27 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Nelson is 0.0% and the poverty rate is 7.8%. 18.8% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 23.3 minutes.
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
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Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Nebraska
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Nelson
What is the population of Nelson, NE?
The population of Nelson, NE is 478 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Nelson?
The median household income in Nelson, NE is $54,408 per year.
What is the median home value in Nelson?
The median home value in Nelson, NE is $72,900.
What is the average rent in Nelson?
The median monthly rent in Nelson, NE is $620.
What is the unemployment rate in Nelson?
The unemployment rate in Nelson, NE is 0.0%.