Shelton, NE
Population 1,354 · Nebraska
About Shelton, NE
Shelton is a small town located in Nebraska with a population of 1,354 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $75,781 per year, which is 1% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 34.5 years is notably younger the US median age of 38.9 years, indicating a younger, often more dynamic population base.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Shelton features a median home value of $137,100, which is 44% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Shelton one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $1,057, 9% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 523 total housing units, 80% are owner-occupied (398 units) and 20% are renter-occupied (97 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Shelton shows an unemployment rate of 6.4%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 7.4%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Shelton have an average one-way commute time of 25.2 minutes.
Education & Demographics
15.6% of Shelton 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 14.2% White, 1.9% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 12.9% Asian residents, with 6.5% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Shelton, NE
Compared to national averages, Shelton has a median household income of $75,781 (1% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $137,100, which is 44% below the national median. Monthly rent at $1,057 is 9% below the US average of $1,163. Within Nebraska, Shelton's income is 15% above the state average of $65,895, and home values are 9% above the state median of $125,824.
Why Live in Shelton, NE?
Shelton offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $75,781, well above the national average, and affordable housing with a median home value of $137,100, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $1,057/month. Additionally, the city features a low poverty rate of 7.4%, better than the national average.
Shelton has a population of 1,354 with a median age of 34.5 years. Compare Shelton with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Nebraska.
Similar Cities Near Shelton
Cities in Nebraska with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ceresco | 1,355 | $103,906 | $186,300 | Compare |
| Ravenna | 1,352 | $64,844 | $129,600 | Compare |
| Sutton | 1,349 | $80,714 | $151,300 | Compare |
| Buccaneer Bay | 1,361 | $140,517 | $316,000 | Compare |
| Grant | 1,392 | $70,000 | $148,800 | Compare |
| Louisville | 1,393 | $97,115 | $204,700 | Compare |
| Bridgeport | 1,403 | $59,643 | $100,600 | Compare |
| Wakefield | 1,288 | $57,500 | $110,300 | 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 Shelton With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Shelton
What is the population of Shelton, NE?
The population of Shelton, NE is 1,354 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small town in Nebraska.
What is the median household income in Shelton?
The median household income in Shelton, NE is $75,781 per year, which is 1% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Shelton?
The median home value in Shelton, NE is $137,100, which is 44% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Shelton?
The median monthly rent in Shelton, NE is $1,057, which is 9% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Shelton?
The unemployment rate in Shelton, NE is 6.4%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Shelton, NE a good place to live?
Shelton offers above-average incomes, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 1,354 and a median age of 34.5, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Shelton, NE?
15.6% of residents in Shelton 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 Shelton?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Shelton, NE: median home value is $137,100 (44% below national), median rent is $1,057/month, and median household income is $75,781. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.8x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Shelton?
The poverty rate in Shelton, NE is 7.4%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Shelton, NE?
Shelton's population is 14.2% White, 1.9% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 12.9% Asian, and 0.1% two or more races. 6.5% of residents are foreign-born.