Western, NE
Population 232 · Nebraska
About Western, NE
Western is a small community located in Nebraska with a population of 232 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $46,667 per year, which is 38% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 41.3 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Western features a median home value of $61,700, which is 75% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Western one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $596, 49% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 116 total housing units, 85% are owner-occupied (87 units) and 15% are renter-occupied (15 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Western shows an unemployment rate of 5.2%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 10.3%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Western have an average one-way commute time of 27.8 minutes.
Education & Demographics
15.3% of Western 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 1.3% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 0.0% of the population being foreign-born.
How Western Ranks in Nebraska
Cost of Living in Western, NE
Compared to national averages, Western has a median household income of $46,667 (38% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $61,700, which is 75% below the national median. Monthly rent at $596 is 49% below the US average of $1,163. Within Nebraska, Western's income is 29% below the state average of $65,895, and home values are 51% below the state median of $125,824.
Why Live in Western, NE?
Western offers affordable housing with a median home value of $61,700, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $596/month, and a low poverty rate of 10.3%, better than the national average.
Potential considerations include median household income ($46,667) that falls below the national average. However, Western’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Western has a population of 232 with a median age of 41.3 years. Compare Western with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Nebraska.
Similar Cities Near Western
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 Western With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Western
What is the population of Western, NE?
The population of Western, NE is 232 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 Western?
The median household income in Western, NE is $46,667 per year, which is 38% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Western?
The median home value in Western, NE is $61,700, which is 75% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Western?
The median monthly rent in Western, NE is $596, which is 49% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Western?
The unemployment rate in Western, NE is 5.2%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Western, NE a good place to live?
Western offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 232 and a median age of 41.3, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Western, NE?
15.3% of residents in Western 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 Western?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Western, NE: median home value is $61,700 (75% below national), median rent is $596/month, and median household income is $46,667. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.3x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Western?
The poverty rate in Western, NE is 10.3%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Western, NE?
Western's population is 1.3% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 0.0% of residents are foreign-born.