Sterling, NE
Population 685 · Nebraska
About Sterling, NE
Sterling is a small community located in Nebraska with a population of 685 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $72,083 per year, which is 4% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 37.8 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Sterling features a median home value of $120,700, which is 51% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Sterling one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $793, 32% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 278 total housing units, 77% are owner-occupied (203 units) and 23% are renter-occupied (59 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Sterling shows an unemployment rate of 4.6%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 11.5%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Sterling have an average one-way commute time of 27.5 minutes.
Education & Demographics
26.6% of Sterling residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This is in line with national trends in educational attainment. The community's demographic composition includes 0.0% White, 2.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 1.6% Asian residents, with 0.0% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Sterling, NE
Compared to national averages, Sterling has a median household income of $72,083 (4% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $120,700, which is 51% below the national median. Monthly rent at $793 is 32% below the US average of $1,163. Within Nebraska, Sterling's income is 9% above the state average of $65,895, and home values are 4% below the state median of $125,824.
Why Live in Sterling, NE?
Sterling offers affordable housing with a median home value of $120,700, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $793/month, and a low poverty rate of 11.5%, better than the national average.
Potential considerations include median household income ($72,083) that falls below the national average. However, Sterling’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Sterling has a population of 685 with a median age of 37.8 years. Compare Sterling with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Nebraska.
Similar Cities Near Sterling
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 Sterling
What is the population of Sterling, NE?
The population of Sterling, NE is 685 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 Sterling?
The median household income in Sterling, NE is $72,083 per year, which is 4% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Sterling?
The median home value in Sterling, NE is $120,700, which is 51% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Sterling?
The median monthly rent in Sterling, NE is $793, which is 32% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Sterling?
The unemployment rate in Sterling, NE is 4.6%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Sterling, NE a good place to live?
Sterling offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 685 and a median age of 37.8, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Sterling, NE?
26.6% of residents in Sterling 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 Sterling?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Sterling, NE: median home value is $120,700 (51% below national), median rent is $793/month, and median household income is $72,083. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.7x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Sterling?
The poverty rate in Sterling, 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 Sterling, NE?
Sterling's population is 0.0% White, 2.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 1.6% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 0.0% of residents are foreign-born.