Polk, NE
Population 331 · Nebraska
About Polk, NE
Polk is a small community located in Nebraska with a population of 331 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $53,182 per year, which is 29% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 43.2 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 Polk features a median home value of $80,300, which is 67% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Polk one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $0, 100% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 167 total housing units, 87% are owner-occupied (127 units) and 13% are renter-occupied (19 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Polk shows an unemployment rate of 1.6%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 11.5%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Polk have an average one-way commute time of 25.3 minutes.
Education & Demographics
11.7% of Polk 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 6.3% White, 0.6% Hispanic or Latino, 0.3% Black or African American, and 0.9% Asian residents, with 5.1% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Polk, NE
Compared to national averages, Polk has a median household income of $53,182 (29% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $80,300, which is 67% below the national median. Monthly rent at $0 is 100% below the US average of $1,163. Within Nebraska, Polk's income is 19% below the state average of $65,895, and home values are 36% below the state median of $125,824.
Why Live in Polk, NE?
Polk offers affordable housing with a median home value of $80,300, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $0/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 1.6%. Additionally, the city features a low poverty rate of 11.5%, better than the national average.
Potential considerations include median household income ($53,182) that falls below the national average. However, Polk’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Polk has a population of 331 with a median age of 43.2 years. Compare Polk with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Nebraska.
Similar Cities Near Polk
Cities in Nebraska with a similar population size.
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 Polk With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Polk
What is the population of Polk, NE?
The population of Polk, NE is 331 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 Polk?
The median household income in Polk, NE is $53,182 per year, which is 29% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Polk?
The median home value in Polk, NE is $80,300, which is 67% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Polk?
The median monthly rent in Polk, NE is $0, which is 100% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Polk?
The unemployment rate in Polk, NE is 1.6%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Polk, NE a good place to live?
Polk offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 331 and a median age of 43.2, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Polk, NE?
11.7% of residents in Polk 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 Polk?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Polk, NE: median home value is $80,300 (67% below national), median rent is $0/month, and median household income is $53,182. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.5x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Polk?
The poverty rate in Polk, NE is 11.5%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Polk, NE?
Polk's population is 6.3% White, 0.6% Hispanic or Latino, 0.3% Black or African American, 0.9% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 5.1% of residents are foreign-born.