Shelby, NE
Population 709 · Nebraska
About Shelby, NE
Shelby is a small community located in Nebraska with a population of 709 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $75,795 per year, which is 1% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 43.6 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 Shelby features a median home value of $112,200, which is 54% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Shelby one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $521, 55% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 272 total housing units, 88% are owner-occupied (222 units) and 12% are renter-occupied (31 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Shelby shows an unemployment rate of 3.5%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 6.2%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Shelby have an average one-way commute time of 33.9 minutes.
Education & Demographics
16.2% of Shelby 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 11.3% White, 5.4% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 2.3% Asian residents, with 3.4% of the population being foreign-born.
How Shelby Ranks in Nebraska
Cost of Living in Shelby, NE
Compared to national averages, Shelby has a median household income of $75,795 (1% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $112,200, which is 54% below the national median. Monthly rent at $521 is 55% below the US average of $1,163. Within Nebraska, Shelby's income is 15% above the state average of $65,895, and home values are 11% below the state median of $125,824.
Why Live in Shelby, NE?
Shelby offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $75,795, well above the national average, and affordable housing with a median home value of $112,200, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $521/month. Additionally, the city features a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 3.5%, and a low poverty rate of 6.2%, better than the national average.
Shelby has a population of 709 with a median age of 43.6 years. Compare Shelby with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Nebraska.
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Cities in Nebraska with a similar population size.
Demographics
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Economy & Education
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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 Shelby
What is the population of Shelby, NE?
The population of Shelby, NE is 709 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 Shelby?
The median household income in Shelby, NE is $75,795 per year, which is 1% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Shelby?
The median home value in Shelby, NE is $112,200, which is 54% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Shelby?
The median monthly rent in Shelby, NE is $521, which is 55% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Shelby?
The unemployment rate in Shelby, NE is 3.5%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Shelby, NE a good place to live?
Shelby offers above-average incomes, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 709 and a median age of 43.6, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Shelby, NE?
16.2% of residents in Shelby 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 Shelby?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Shelby, NE: median home value is $112,200 (54% below national), median rent is $521/month, and median household income is $75,795. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.5x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Shelby?
The poverty rate in Shelby, NE is 6.2%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Shelby, NE?
Shelby's population is 11.3% White, 5.4% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 2.3% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 3.4% of residents are foreign-born.