Wood River, NE
Population 1,426 · Nebraska
About Wood River, NE
Wood River is a small town located in Nebraska with a population of 1,426 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $76,591 per year, which is 2% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 36.9 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Wood River features a median home value of $131,400, which is 46% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Wood River one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $820, 29% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 522 total housing units, 82% are owner-occupied (403 units) and 18% are renter-occupied (87 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Wood River shows an unemployment rate of 5.2%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 10.1%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Wood River have an average one-way commute time of 25.6 minutes.
Education & Demographics
19.4% of Wood River 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 23.3% White, 1.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 2.8% Asian residents, with 6.7% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Wood River, NE
Compared to national averages, Wood River has a median household income of $76,591 (2% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $131,400, which is 46% below the national median. Monthly rent at $820 is 29% below the US average of $1,163. Within Nebraska, Wood River's income is 16% above the state average of $65,895, and home values are 4% above the state median of $125,824.
Why Live in Wood River, NE?
Wood River offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $76,591, well above the national average, and affordable housing with a median home value of $131,400, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $820/month. Additionally, the city features a low poverty rate of 10.1%, better than the national average.
Wood River has a population of 1,426 with a median age of 36.9 years. Compare Wood River with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Nebraska.
Similar Cities Near Wood River
Cities in Nebraska with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Atkinson | 1,433 | $72,857 | $147,600 | Compare |
| Wisner | 1,436 | $66,875 | $134,800 | Compare |
| Arlington | 1,437 | $95,278 | $222,500 | Compare |
| Bridgeport | 1,403 | $59,643 | $100,600 | Compare |
| Louisville | 1,393 | $97,115 | $204,700 | Compare |
| Grant | 1,392 | $70,000 | $148,800 | Compare |
| Fullerton | 1,463 | $54,375 | $120,700 | Compare |
| Battle Creek | 1,478 | $93,750 | $188,100 | 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 Wood River With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Wood River
What is the population of Wood River, NE?
The population of Wood River, NE is 1,426 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 Wood River?
The median household income in Wood River, NE is $76,591 per year, which is 2% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Wood River?
The median home value in Wood River, NE is $131,400, which is 46% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Wood River?
The median monthly rent in Wood River, NE is $820, which is 29% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Wood River?
The unemployment rate in Wood River, 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 Wood River, NE a good place to live?
Wood River offers above-average incomes, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 1,426 and a median age of 36.9, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Wood River, NE?
19.4% of residents in Wood River 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 Wood River?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Wood River, NE: median home value is $131,400 (46% below national), median rent is $820/month, and median household income is $76,591. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.7x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Wood River?
The poverty rate in Wood River, NE is 10.1%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Wood River, NE?
Wood River's population is 23.3% White, 1.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 2.8% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 6.7% of residents are foreign-born.