Nebraska's 8 Best Retirement Towns Ranked
If you are looking for a retirement destination in America's heartland, you might want to consider the state of Nebraska. With friendly taxes, affordable living costs, and a rich pioneer heritage, the Cornhusker State continues to attract senior adults as they look for a place to spend their golden years. While Lincoln and Omaha attract plenty of limelight as the state's largest cities, there is an authentic charm to b3 found in the smaller rural communities scattered across the state. These eight tight-knit communities offer a slower pace of life, safe streets and neighborhoods, and ample opportunities to keep seniors active. Whether you dream of peaceful mornings by the river, exploring charming historic districts, or immersing yourself in local culture, Nebraska’s small towns offer something special for everyone.
Kearney
Kearney is a small college town (University of Nebraska at Kearney) sitting in the central part of the state. This small town of 34,523 residents is known as the "Sandhill Crane Capital of the World" due to the massive migration of sandhill cranes that flock to the area every spring. Retirees can enjoy the spectacle as hundreds of thousands of birds migrate north to their nesting grounds. The town also features the Museum of Nebraska Art (reopening in May 2025) and plenty of local dining and shopping options. Outdoor enthusiasts will find the extensive trail system along the Platte River provides ample outdoor activity to keep seniors active.
Healthcare is excellent in this community, with two primary hospitals: Kearney Medical Center (93 beds) and CHI Good Samaritan Hospital, a 268-bed medical facility offering extensive inpatient and outpatient services. For seniors needing community living services, there are several options, including The Regency and Broadwell Senior Living.
The average price for a home in Kearney is $314,000, and living costs are consistently below the national average. With safe streets and a crime rate below the state average, Kearney is quickly becoming an excellent choice for retirees.
Hastings
With excellent senior services, low housing costs, and a welcoming community, Hastings has much to offer retirees looking to stretch their monthly budgets. The median home price in Hastings is a very reasonable $241,000, and food, fuel, and utility costs are lower than the national average. In addition, quality healthcare services abound, with Mary Lanning Healthcare as the primary hospital. The medical facility has provided comprehensive care and services to local residents for over a century.
Every August, the community celebrates its status as the birthplace of Kool-aid with a lively festival. The historic downtown, featuring local shops, cafes, and art galleries, is perfect for an afternoon of exploring. The Hastings Museum, with exhibits on regional history and a planetarium, is a must-see attraction. Hastings ranks high on our list due to its affordability and strong, close-knit community.
Fremont
Fremont is in the eastern part of the state, about thirty-nine miles from Omaha. The community has a rich pioneer heritage, as it was part of the early Mormon Trail and served as a supply stop for countless settlers heading west. The historic downtown area has an interesting blend of local boutiques, antique stores, and historic sites. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the proximity to the Platte River and the expansive Fremont Lakes State Recreation Area, where fishing, hiking, and birdwatching provide endless opportunities to connect with nature.
According to Realtor.com, the average home price in Fremont is $232,000, and living costs are roughly 11% lower than the national average. Methodist Fremont Health is a 75-bed hospital that can handle trauma, emergency, and routine medical needs. This small town has various retirement and assisted living facilities, like The Heritage At Shalimar Gardens, should retirees desire more help for their care.
Beatrice
Beatrice is a peaceful, history-rich town with a strong community feel. The town of 12,263 residents is located in Gage County, about twenty minutes north of the state line. Homestead National Historical Park is nearby, where visitors can explore the legacy of America’s pioneering past through interactive exhibits and scenic walking trails. Nature lovers will appreciate the town’s access to beautiful outdoor spaces, perfect for birdwatching, leisurely hikes, or quiet afternoons fishing from the Big Blue River.
The median price for a home is $257,000, and living costs are 18% lower than the national average. Beatrice Community Hospital & Health Center is the largest rural hospital in Southeast Nebraska. This medical facility has 25 patient rooms, two labor and delivery rooms, and an emergency department equipped to handle any situation. With the capital city of Lincoln less than an hour away, Beatrice is becoming an excellent choice for retirees who long for a peaceful retirement but don't want to sacrifice the amenities larger cities have to offer.
Chadron
Chadron is a charming small college town in the northwestern corner of Nebraska, surrounded by rolling hills and serene pine forests. This picturesque landscape offers abundant opportunities for outdoor recreation, making it an appealing destination for nature lovers and those seeking an active retirement. Chadron State Park, Nebraska’s first state park, is a haven for hiking, fishing, and wildlife watching.
The town is home to Chadron State College, which infuses the area with educational opportunities and cultural events like art exhibits, music performances, and guest lectures. The Dawes County Historical Museum and the nearby Museum of the Fur Trade provide fascinating glimpses into the region’s past, perfect for history enthusiasts. Regular community events, farmers' markets, and local festivals foster connections and friendships.
Chadron offers a slower pace of life, with affordable housing and a low cost of living. The average home price is $312,000, and food and fuel costs are significantly less than the national average. Chadron Community Hospital handles most of the town's residents' medical needs. Those seeking a retirement community should look into Prairie Pines Lodge. Chadron's natural beauty and low cost of living make it an attractive option for those looking to stretch their retirement savings without sacrificing quality of life.
Nebraska City
Nebraska City is a town of just under 7,500 residents sitting on the Missouri River in the southeastern part of the state. This historic community celebrates its status as the home of Arbor Day with lush parks, walking trails, and community events that bring residents together. Retirees can explore the Arbor Lodge State Historical Park, enjoy local produce at Kimmel Orchard, or take in the beauty of the Missouri River Basin Lewis and Clark Center. The community is close-knit, and seasonal festivals and farmers' markets foster strong connections among neighbors.
The average home price is $220,000, and living costs are less than the national average. CHI Health St. Mary’s offers comprehensive medical care, including emergency services, specialized treatments, and wellness programs tailored to senior health needs. Morton Senior Living is one of the several retirement communities available. The town’s combination of community pride, natural beauty, and reliable healthcare makes it a standout choice for those seeking a balanced and fulfilling retirement.
Seward
If you enjoy fireworks, parades, and the sight of the flag waving in the breeze on the Fourth of July, you will feel right at home in Seward. This small community of 7,600 residents has been designated as Nebraska's Fourth of July City and has celebrated the patriotic festivities every year since its first settlers arrived in 1868. The town’s year-round festivals, affordable housing, and welcoming neighborhoods provide a safe and enjoyable retirement setting. Retirees can stroll through Seward’s historic downtown, filled with charming shops, or take a fitness program at the local community center to stay active if they prefer.
Seward also boasts excellent healthcare facilities, including Memorial Health Care Systems, which provides comprehensive medical services and senior care. Housing costs $299,000 for a moderate home, and the living costs are about 9% less than the national average. With its blend of small-town warmth, lively celebrations, and reliable healthcare, Seward stands out as a wonderful place to enjoy a fulfilling retirement.
Columbus
Columbus is a fantastic place to retire, offering a mix of outdoor recreation, cultural amenities, and a welcoming community. The town is home to Pawnee Park, often called the 'Picnic Capital of Nebraska,' where retirees can enjoy walking trails, fishing, and serene picnic spots. Columbus also hosts local concerts, art events, and community fairs that keep the town’s social scene lively and inclusive. Retirees who love to gamble will enjoy Harrah's Casino and RaceTrack, which has recently opened just outside of town.
Columbus Community Hospital provides various healthcare services, including specialized senior care and wellness programs. The town has several affordable senior centers, which add to its appeal and create a supportive environment where retirees can thrive. Housing costs are $298,000, and living costs are 12% below the national average.
Cornhusker State has many small towns that are perfect for retirement destination consideration. Each town offers something special for retirees with unique experiences to keep senior adults active and engaged. Whether it is a rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, or a strong sense of community, Nebraska’s small towns are hidden gems, perfect for those looking to enjoy their golden years.
