Iowa vs Nebraska: Which Is Better to Live In?
Iowa ranks #14 of 50 overall and Nebraska #10 as of the latest release. Iowa is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 87.8 vs 90.1), collects a similar share of income in taxes. Overall they are 1.9 points apart, too close to call: Iowa leads 2 of 11 categories, Nebraska leads 4.
- Income needed to buy the typical home is 15% lower in Iowa ($70,437 vs. $83,194 in Nebraska).
- Property crime rate is 15% lower in Iowa (1,172 vs. 1,379 in Nebraska).
- Center-based infant care, per year is 12% lower in Iowa ($13,253 vs. $15,080 in Nebraska).
| Measure | IowaIA | NebraskaNE | GapIA−NE | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -1.9 pts | 69.2#14 of 50 · B+ | 71.1#10 of 50 · A | -1.9 pts | — | Even |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -2.3 pts (-3%) · US 100 | 87.8#3 of 50 | 90.1#10 of 50 | -2.3 pts-3% | 100 | IA |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$6,068 · US -$11,758 | -$2,317#13 of 50 | -$8,385#21 of 50 | +$6,068 | -$11,758 | IA |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$41,126 (-15%) · US $368,697 | $239,547#7 of 50 | $280,673#14 of 50 | -$41,126-15% | $368,697 | IA |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.45 pts · US 8.74% | 9.23%#34 of 50 | 8.78%#26 of 50 | +0.45 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +16 (+7%) · US 328 | 234#16 of 50 | 218#12 of 50 | +16+7% | 328 | NE |
| Median household incomeGap -$875 (-1%) · US $80,903 | $75,501#34 of 50 | $76,376#31 of 50 | -$875-1% | $80,903 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +2.8 pts · US 85.62% | 89.9%#6 of 50 | 87.1%#21 of 50 | +2.8 pts | 85.62% | IA |
| Life expectancyGap -0.4 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.9#18 of 50 | 78.3#15 of 50 | -0.4 yrs | 76.9 | NE |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -930 · US -33 | -2,414#35 of 50 | -1,484#34 of 50 | -930 | -33 | NE |
Cost of living index from the Bureau of Economic Analysis (US = 100). Left after costs from the America's Dashboard affordability engine for a family of four earning $75,000. Typical home value from Zillow Research. Tax burden from WalletHub. Violent crime from the FBI, per 100,000 residents. Income and graduation from the Census Bureau and NCES. Life expectancy from the CDC. Net households from IRS Statistics of Income. US column is the 50-state average or median.
Is Iowa or Nebraska better to live in?
Iowa scores 69.2 and Nebraska scores 71.1 out of 100, a 1.9-point gap this site treats as even. Iowa leads 2 of 11 categories, Nebraska leads 4, and 5 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | IowaIA | NebraskaNE | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -7.9 | 15% | 48.8#24 · B | 56.7#12 · B+ | -7.9 pts | NE |
| Safety12% of scoregap +1.8 | 12% | 79.8#12 · B+ | 78.0#16 · B+ | +1.8 pts | Even |
| Health12% of scoregap +2.1 | 12% | 60.3#20 · B | 58.2#25 · B | +2.1 pts | Even |
| Education12% of scoregap +5.2 | 12% | 69.0#9 · A | 63.8#20 · B | +5.2 pts | IA |
| Affordability10% of scoregap +4.7 | 10% | 86.3#5 · A+ | 81.6#12 · B+ | +4.7 pts | IA |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -5.4 | 8% | 66.0#14 · B+ | 71.4#8 · A | -5.4 pts | NE |
| Growth7% of scoregap -10.2 | 7% | 35.0#29 · C+ | 45.2#18 · B+ | -10.2 pts | NE |
| Transportation7% of scoregap 0 | 7% | 55.6#13 · B+ | 55.6#12 · B+ | 0 pts | Even |
| Livability7% of scoregap -4.8 | 7% | 27.6#34 · C+ | 32.4#26 · B | -4.8 pts | NE |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap +0.4 | 6% | 22.4#28 · C+ | 22.0#29 · C+ | +0.4 pts | Even |
| Environment4% of scoregap +2.6 | 4% | 46.7#17 · B+ | 44.1#22 · B | +2.6 pts | Even |
Scores run 0 to 100 within each category; weight is the category's share of the composite. Grades follow rank (1–5 A+, 6–10 A, 11–18 B+, 19–26 B, 27–34 C+, 35–42 C, 43–48 D, 49–50 F). Methodology →
Is Iowa cheaper than Nebraska?
Iowa is cheaper: cost of living index 87.8 vs 90.1 in Nebraska (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $6,068 more a year in Iowa after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | IowaIA | NebraskaNE | GapIA−NE | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -2.3 pts (-3%) · US 100 | 87.8#3 of 50 | 90.1#10 of 50 | -2.3 pts-3% | 100 | IA |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -0.4 pts (0%) · US 100 | 93.7#2 of 50 | 94.1#7 of 50 | -0.4 pts0% | 100 | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap +1.38¢ (+11%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 13.72¢/kWh#16 of 50 | 12.34¢/kWh#3 of 50 | +1.38¢+11% | 17.84¢/kWh | NE |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$0.79 (-7%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $10.61/Mcf#7 of 50 | $11.40/Mcf#13 of 50 | -$0.79-7% | $15.83/Mcf | IA |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.09 (-3%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.12/gal#18 of 50 | $3.21/gal#26 of 50 | -$0.09-3% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$1,827 (-12%) · US $15,633 | $13,253#17 of 50 | $15,080#24 of 50 | -$1,827-12% | $15,633 | IA |
Cost of living index and the price level for goods from the Bureau of Economic Analysis regional price parities (US = 100). Electricity, natural gas and gasoline prices from the EIA; center-based infant care from Child Care Aware of America. Lower is ahead.
| Measure | IowaIA | NebraskaNE | GapIA−NE | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap +$2,177 | +$35,836costs $39,165 | +$33,659costs $41,341 | +$2,177 | IA |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap +$1,932 | +$28,318costs $46,683 | +$26,386costs $48,614 | +$1,932 | IA |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap +$6,068 | -$2,317costs $77,317 | -$8,385costs $83,385 | +$6,068 | IA |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap +$1,534 | +$40,466costs $34,534 | +$38,932costs $36,067 | +$1,534 | IA |
Income left after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and state and local taxes for four household types earning $75,000, from the affordability engine. Negative means typical costs exceed take-home pay.
| Measure | IowaIA | NebraskaNE | GapIA−NE | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap -$3,248 | $18,105 | $21,353 | -$3,248 | IA |
| ChildcareGap -$3,654 | $26,506 | $30,160 | -$3,654 | IA |
| UtilitiesGap -$111 | $4,214 | $4,325 | -$111 | Even |
| GroceriesGap -$45 | $10,553 | $10,598 | -$45 | Even |
| TransportationGap -$283 | $9,806 | $10,089 | -$283 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap +$1,273 | $8,133 | $6,860 | +$1,273 | NE |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Iowa or Nebraska?
Iowa and Nebraska collect a similar share of income in state and local taxes: 9.23% vs 8.78%. Iowa has low income tax, high property tax, with sales tax in the middle of the pack; Nebraska has high property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | IowaIA | NebraskaNE | GapIA−NE | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.45 pts · US 8.74% | 9.23%#34 of 50 | 8.78%#26 of 50 | +0.45 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -1.4 pts · US 5.46% | 3.8%#13 of 50 | 5.2%#24 of 50 | -1.4 pts | 5.46% | IA |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.05 pts · US 1.02% | 1.49%#41 of 50 | 1.54%#42 of 50 | -0.05 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -0.04 pts · US 6.66% | 6.94%#22 of 50 | 6.98%#23 of 50 | -0.04 pts | 6.66% | Even |
Total tax burden (state and local taxes as a share of personal income) from WalletHub; top marginal income tax rate, effective property tax rate and combined state and local sales tax from the Tax Foundation. Lower is ahead.
Are homes more expensive in Iowa or Nebraska?
Homes cost 17% more in Nebraska: a typical home value of $239,547 in Iowa vs $280,673 in Nebraska. Buying the typical home takes about $70,437 of income in Iowa and $83,194 in Nebraska; the median household earns $75,501 and $76,376.
| Measure | IowaIA | NebraskaNE | GapIA−NE | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$41,126 (-15%) · US $368,697 | $239,547#7 of 50 | $280,673#14 of 50 | -$41,126-15% | $368,697 | IA |
| Home value change, one yearGap +0.4 pts · US +1.2% | +3.5%#11 of 50 | +3.1%#15 of 50 | +0.4 pts | +1.2% | Even |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$116 (-8%) · US $1,948 | $1,297#6 of 50 | $1,413#9 of 50 | -$116-8% | $1,948 | IA |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$12,757 (-15%) · US $100,006 | $70,437#8 of 50 | $83,194#17 of 50 | -$12,757-15% | $100,006 | IA |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.5x (-14%) · US 4.6x | 3.2x#2 of 50 | 3.7x#12 of 50 | -0.5x-14% | 4.6x | IA |
Typical home value, one-year change, largest-metro rent and income needed to buy from Zillow Research (a modeled estimate, not a median). Price-to-income ratio divides that typical home value by ACS median household income. Lower is ahead.
| IA | NE | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,232 | $1,444 |
| Income needed vs. median | -7% | +9% |
| Five-year change | +26.1% | +25.6% |
| Market temperature | Warm | Cool |
| Largest metro | Des Moines | Omaha |
Income needed vs. median: how far the income required to buy the typical home sits above (+) or below (−) the state's median household income. Temperature blends price cuts, days to pending and inventory against the national market (Zillow).
Do people earn more in Iowa or Nebraska?
Median household income is about the same, $75,501 in Iowa and $76,376 in Nebraska, with unemployment at 3.5% and 3%. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Iowa's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 5 after adjusting for local costs and Nebraska's in 0.
| Measure | IowaIA | NebraskaNE | GapIA−NE | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap -$875 (-1%) · US $80,903 | $75,501#34 of 50 | $76,376#31 of 50 | -$875-1% | $80,903 | Even |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.5 pts · US 3.95% | 3.5%#15 of 50 | 3%#6 of 50 | +0.5 pts | 3.95% | NE |
| GDP per capitaGap -$2,573 (-4%) · US $64,333 | $64,764#21 of 50 | $67,337#17 of 50 | -$2,573-4% | $64,333 | NE |
| Real GDP growthGap -0.6 pts · US +1.91% | +1.2%#43 of 50 | +1.8%#28 of 50 | -0.6 pts | +1.91% | NE |
| Population growthGap -0.37 pts · US +0.51% | +0.25%#37 of 50 | +0.62%#17 of 50 | -0.37 pts | +0.51% | Even |
Median household income from the Census Bureau ACS; unemployment from BLS LAUS; GDP per capita and real GDP growth from the BEA; population growth from Census Bureau estimates.
Show all 20 occupations
| Occupation | IA | NE | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family Medicine Physicians | $241,727$215,137 in Des Moines | $223,267$200,940 in Omaha | IA |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $107,679$95,834 in Des Moines | $101,091$90,982 in Omaha | IA |
| Electricians | $65,071$57,913 in Des Moines | $60,544$54,490 in Omaha | IA |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $75,354$67,065 in Des Moines | $71,723$64,551 in Omaha | IA |
| Civil Engineers | $100,113$89,101 in Des Moines | $102,437$92,193 in Omaha | Even |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $67,263$59,864 in Des Moines | $69,281$62,353 in Omaha | Even |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $35,545$31,635 in Des Moines | $34,211$30,790 in Omaha | IA |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $73,833$65,711 in Des Moines | $75,020$67,518 in Omaha | Even |
| Accountants & Auditors | $80,166$71,348 in Des Moines | $81,297$73,167 in Omaha | Even |
| Lawyers | $143,340$127,573 in Des Moines | $142,516$128,264 in Omaha | Even |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $51,294$45,652 in Des Moines | $50,587$45,528 in Omaha | Even |
| Secondary School Teachers | $70,096$62,385 in Des Moines | $69,523$62,571 in Omaha | Even |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $56,506$50,290 in Des Moines | $57,030$51,327 in Omaha | Even |
| General & Operations Managers | $105,399$93,805 in Des Moines | $104,988$94,489 in Omaha | Even |
| Construction Laborers | $43,482$38,699 in Des Moines | $43,074$38,767 in Omaha | Even |
| Registered Nurses | $90,444$80,495 in Des Moines | $90,051$81,046 in Omaha | Even |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $58,447$52,018 in Des Moines | $58,814$52,933 in Omaha | Even |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $56,109$49,937 in Des Moines | $56,370$50,733 in Omaha | Even |
| Software Developers | $141,671$126,087 in Des Moines | $141,411$127,270 in Omaha | Even |
| Mental Health Counselors | $56,442$50,233 in Des Moines | $56,301$50,671 in Omaha | Even |
BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, latest release: the median wage in each state's best-paying metro, adjusted for that metro's cost of living (BEA regional price parities). Sorted by the size of the gap.
Is Iowa safer than Nebraska?
Nebraska is safer: 218 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 234 in Iowa (FBI). Property crime runs 1,172 and 1,379 per 100,000.
| Measure | IowaIA | NebraskaNE | GapIA−NE | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +16 (+7%) · US 328 | 234#16 of 50 | 218#12 of 50 | +16+7% | 328 | NE |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -207 (-15%) · US 1,535 | 1,172#11 of 50 | 1,379#19 of 50 | -207-15% | 1,535 | IA |
FBI state crime estimates, offenses per 100,000 residents, latest release. Florida and North Dakota use the FBI's prior-year estimate because the latest year is based on limited data. Lower is ahead.
- Bettendorf, IA94 violent per 100K
- Papillion, NE48 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Iowa or Nebraska?
Iowa scores higher for education (#9 of 50 vs #20), with high school graduation rates of 89.9% and 87.1%. They are close on health (#20 and #25); life expectancy is 77.9 years in Iowa and 78.3 in Nebraska.
| Measure | IowaIA | NebraskaNE | GapIA−NE | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -5 · US 273 | 275#23 of 50 | 280#7 of 50 | -5 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +5 · US 257 | 261#10 of 50 | 256#30 of 50 | +5 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +2.8 pts · US 85.62% | 89.9%#6 of 50 | 87.1%#21 of 50 | +2.8 pts | 85.62% | IA |
| Life expectancyGap -0.4 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.9#18 of 50 | 78.3#15 of 50 | -0.4 yrs | 76.9 | NE |
| Adults with obesityGap -1 pts · US 34.03% | 36.6%#34 of 50 | 37.6%#42 of 50 | -1 pts | 34.03% | IA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -1.7 pts · US 7.6% | 5.4%#11 of 50 | 7.1%#25 of 50 | -1.7 pts | 7.6% | IA |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +9 pts (+26%) · US 38.8 | 43#39 of 50 | 34#9 of 50 | +9 pts+26% | 38.8 | NE |
High school graduation rate from NCES; life expectancy from the CDC National Center for Health Statistics; median air quality index from EPA AirData (lower is cleaner).
- Urbandale, IAeducation score 98.3
- Gretna, NEeducation score 98
City education scores blend graduation rate, student-teacher ratio and per-pupil spending (NCES). State education scores combine NAEP math and reading with the graduation rate; health scores combine life expectancy, adult obesity and the uninsured rate. Education: Iowa #9, Nebraska #20. Health: Iowa #20, Nebraska #25.
Are more people moving from Iowa to Nebraska, or from Nebraska to Iowa?
3,156 households moved from Iowa to Nebraska and 3,172 moved from Nebraska to Iowa in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 16 households for Iowa. Movers to Nebraska reported an average income of $52,747; movers to Iowa reported $57,630. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 6,626 people (±1,928) moving from Iowa to Nebraska and 4,800 (±1,250) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Bars show people (Census ACS, latest release, with 90% margins of error). IRS counts tax-filing households and reports the movers' average income; pairs outside a state's top ten origins and destinations are not published.
| Measure | IowaIA | NebraskaNE | GapIA−NE | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +11,555 (+53%) | 33,544#35 of 50 | 21,989#40 of 50 | +11,555+53% | IA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +12,485 (+53%) | 35,958#18 of 50 | 23,473#11 of 50 | +12,485+53% | NE |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -930 | -2,414#35 of 50 | -1,484#34 of 50 | -930 | NE |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap 0.0 | -0.7#34 of 50 | -0.7#33 of 50 | 0.0 | Even |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$1,740 (+3%) | $61,608#43 of 50 | $59,868#45 of 50 | +$1,740+3% | Even |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$1,590 (-2%) | $64,883#41 of 50 | $66,473#38 of 50 | -$1,590-2% | Even |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -0.1 | -0.3#35 of 50 | -0.2#32 of 50 | -0.1 | Even |
Each state's total inbound and outbound households and the movers' average income from IRS Statistics of Income; net domestic migration per 1,000 residents from Census Bureau population estimates. Latest releases.
Which is better for retirees, families or remote workers, Iowa or Nebraska?
Iowa is the better fit for families; Nebraska is the better fit for young professionals and small business; 3 of the six lifestyle indexes are within 4 places. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | IowaIA | NebraskaNE | GapIA−NE | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap -9 places | #3score 81.7 | #12score 78.8 | -9 places | IA |
| RetireesGap +1 places | #8score 77.8 | #7score 78.2 | +1 places | Even |
| Remote WorkersGap +1 places | #10score 63.9 | #9score 67.2 | +1 places | Even |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +9 places | #15score 62.7 | #6score 69.3 | +9 places | NE |
| Small BusinessGap +7 places | #14score 65.8 | #7score 73.6 | +7 places | NE |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap -1 places | #18score 52.5 | #19score 51.4 | -1 places | Even |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesIowa (#3 vs #12)
- RetireesEven (#8 vs #7)
- Remote WorkersEven (#10 vs #9)
- Young ProfessionalsNebraska (#6 vs #15)
- Small BusinessNebraska (#7 vs #14)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsEven (#18 vs #19)
Which cities stand out in Iowa and Nebraska?
Iowa has 20 tracked cities and Nebraska has 20; the largest are Des Moines and Omaha. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | IowaIA | NebraskaNE |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Des Moines212,421 people | Omaha488,837 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Waukeescore 70.9 | Papillionscore 68.8 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Bettendorf94 violent per 100K | Papillion48 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Marshalltowncost index 84.1 | Kearneycost index 86.3 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Fort Dodgewalkability 14.9 of 20 | South Sioux Citywalkability 13.9 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Iowa Citycounty median AQI 37 | Scottsbluffcounty median AQI 23 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Urbandale98.3% graduation rate | Gretna98% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Urbandalemedian income $112,795 | Gretnamedian income $123,992 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Waukee+9.3% growth | Norfolk+1.3% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Iowa and Nebraska compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Iowa carries AAA credit rating and Nebraska AAA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | IowaIA | NebraskaNE | GapIA−NE | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap +33 pts · US 29.34% | 67%#6 of 50 | 34%#17 of 50 | +33 pts | 29.34% | IA |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -10.2 (-21%) · US 29.6 | 38.3#36 of 50 | 48.5#43 of 50 | -10.2-21% | 29.6 | IA |
| Public land shareGap -0.3 pts · US 17.16% | 1.1%#48 of 50 | 1.4%#47 of 50 | -0.3 pts | 17.16% | Even |
| Mean travel time to workGap +0.5 min · US 25.2 min | 20.4 min#8 of 50 | 19.9 min#6 of 50 | +0.5 min | 25.2 min | Even |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.3 pts · US 2.29% | 0.8%#31 of 50 | 0.5%#41 of 50 | +0.3 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap +0.2 pts · US 12.28% | 9.9%#36 of 50 | 9.7%#38 of 50 | +0.2 pts | 12.28% | Even |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -1.2 pts · US 92.67% | 90.7%#45 of 50 | 91.9%#37 of 50 | -1.2 pts | 92.67% | NE |
Renewable share of electricity from the EIA; natural disaster risk from FEMA's National Risk Index; public land share from USGS PAD-US; mean travel time to work, transit and work-from-home shares from the Census Bureau ACS; households with a broadband subscription from the Census Bureau ACS.
| Measure | IowaIA | NebraskaNE | GapIA−NE | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 100#6 of 50 | 100#4 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -1.7 pts · US 12.39% | 10.6%#23 of 50 | 12.3%#19 of 50 | -1.7 pts | 12.39% | NE |
| Pension funded ratioGap 0 pts · US 74.3% | 87%#9 of 50 | 87%#8 of 50 | 0 pts | 74.3% | Even |
| State debt per capitaGap +$1,370 (+107%) · US $3,506 | $2,650#22 of 50 | $1,280#1 of 50 | +$1,370+107% | $3,506 | NE |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -1.1 pts · US +4.66% | +7.1%#10 of 50 | +8.2%#6 of 50 | -1.1 pts | +4.66% | NE |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Iowa AAA, Nebraska AAA), rainy-day fund and budget balance as a share of spending (Pew, NASBO), pension funded ratio (Pew) and state debt per capita (Census Bureau).
Iowa vs Nebraska: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Iowa is ahead on 17 of 51, Nebraska on 12, and 22 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | IowaIA | NebraskaNE | GapIA−NE | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +1,220,381 (+60%) · US 6.8 million | 3.2 million#32 of 50 | 2 million#38 of 50 | +1,220,381+60% | 6.8 million | IA |
| Median household incomeGap -$875 (-1%) · US $80,903 | $75,501#34 of 50 | $76,376#31 of 50 | -$875-1% | $80,903 | Even |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.5 pts · US 3.95% | 3.5%#15 of 50 | 3%#6 of 50 | +0.5 pts | 3.95% | NE |
| Population growthGap -0.37 pts · US +0.51% | +0.25%#37 of 50 | +0.62%#17 of 50 | -0.37 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap -$2,573 (-4%) · US $64,333 | $64,764#21 of 50 | $67,337#17 of 50 | -$2,573-4% | $64,333 | NE |
| Real GDP growthGap -0.6 pts · US +1.91% | +1.2%#43 of 50 | +1.8%#28 of 50 | -0.6 pts | +1.91% | NE |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +16 (+7%) · US 328 | 234#16 of 50 | 218#12 of 50 | +16+7% | 328 | NE |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -207 (-15%) · US 1,535 | 1,172#11 of 50 | 1,379#19 of 50 | -207-15% | 1,535 | IA |
| High school graduation rateGap +2.8 pts · US 85.62% | 89.9%#6 of 50 | 87.1%#21 of 50 | +2.8 pts | 85.62% | IA |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -1 · US 237 | 237#30 of 50 | 238#22 of 50 | -1 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -5 · US 273 | 275#23 of 50 | 280#7 of 50 | -5 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +3 · US 214 | 215#25 of 50 | 212#39 of 50 | +3 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +5 · US 257 | 261#10 of 50 | 256#30 of 50 | +5 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap -0.4 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.9#18 of 50 | 78.3#15 of 50 | -0.4 yrs | 76.9 | NE |
| Adults with obesityGap -1 pts · US 34.03% | 36.6%#34 of 50 | 37.6%#42 of 50 | -1 pts | 34.03% | IA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -1.7 pts · US 7.6% | 5.4%#11 of 50 | 7.1%#25 of 50 | -1.7 pts | 7.6% | IA |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$41,126 (-15%) · US $368,697 | $239,547#7 of 50 | $280,673#14 of 50 | -$41,126-15% | $368,697 | IA |
| Home value change, one yearGap +0.4 pts · US +1.2% | +3.5%#11 of 50 | +3.1%#15 of 50 | +0.4 pts | +1.2% | Even |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$116 (-8%) · US $1,948 | $1,297#6 of 50 | $1,413#9 of 50 | -$116-8% | $1,948 | IA |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$12,757 (-15%) · US $100,006 | $70,437#8 of 50 | $83,194#17 of 50 | -$12,757-15% | $100,006 | IA |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -2.3 pts (-3%) · US 100 | 87.8#3 of 50 | 90.1#10 of 50 | -2.3 pts-3% | 100 | IA |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.5x (-14%) · US 4.6x | 3.2x#2 of 50 | 3.7x#12 of 50 | -0.5x-14% | 4.6x | IA |
| Residential electricity priceGap +1.38¢ (+11%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 13.72¢/kWh#16 of 50 | 12.34¢/kWh#3 of 50 | +1.38¢+11% | 17.84¢/kWh | NE |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$0.79 (-7%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $10.61/Mcf#7 of 50 | $11.40/Mcf#13 of 50 | -$0.79-7% | $15.83/Mcf | IA |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.09 (-3%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.12/gal#18 of 50 | $3.21/gal#26 of 50 | -$0.09-3% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -0.4 pts (0%) · US 100 | 93.7#2 of 50 | 94.1#7 of 50 | -0.4 pts0% | 100 | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$1,827 (-12%) · US $15,633 | $13,253#17 of 50 | $15,080#24 of 50 | -$1,827-12% | $15,633 | IA |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.45 pts · US 8.74% | 9.23%#34 of 50 | 8.78%#26 of 50 | +0.45 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -1.4 pts · US 5.46% | 3.8%#13 of 50 | 5.2%#24 of 50 | -1.4 pts | 5.46% | IA |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.05 pts · US 1.02% | 1.49%#41 of 50 | 1.54%#42 of 50 | -0.05 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -0.04 pts · US 6.66% | 6.94%#22 of 50 | 6.98%#23 of 50 | -0.04 pts | 6.66% | Even |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 100#6 of 50 | 100#4 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -1.7 pts · US 12.39% | 10.6%#23 of 50 | 12.3%#19 of 50 | -1.7 pts | 12.39% | NE |
| Pension funded ratioGap 0 pts · US 74.3% | 87%#9 of 50 | 87%#8 of 50 | 0 pts | 74.3% | Even |
| State debt per capitaGap +$1,370 (+107%) · US $3,506 | $2,650#22 of 50 | $1,280#1 of 50 | +$1,370+107% | $3,506 | NE |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -1.1 pts · US +4.66% | +7.1%#10 of 50 | +8.2%#6 of 50 | -1.1 pts | +4.66% | NE |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +9 pts (+26%) · US 38.8 | 43#39 of 50 | 34#9 of 50 | +9 pts+26% | 38.8 | NE |
| Renewable share of electricityGap +33 pts · US 29.34% | 67%#6 of 50 | 34%#17 of 50 | +33 pts | 29.34% | IA |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -10.2 (-21%) · US 29.6 | 38.3#36 of 50 | 48.5#43 of 50 | -10.2-21% | 29.6 | IA |
| Public land shareGap -0.3 pts · US 17.16% | 1.1%#48 of 50 | 1.4%#47 of 50 | -0.3 pts | 17.16% | Even |
| Mean travel time to workGap +0.5 min · US 25.2 min | 20.4 min#8 of 50 | 19.9 min#6 of 50 | +0.5 min | 25.2 min | Even |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.3 pts · US 2.29% | 0.8%#31 of 50 | 0.5%#41 of 50 | +0.3 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap +0.2 pts · US 12.28% | 9.9%#36 of 50 | 9.7%#38 of 50 | +0.2 pts | 12.28% | Even |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -1.2 pts · US 92.67% | 90.7%#45 of 50 | 91.9%#37 of 50 | -1.2 pts | 92.67% | NE |
| Households moving inIRSGap +11,555 (+53%) · US 78,682 | 33,544#35 of 50 | 21,989#40 of 50 | +11,555+53% | 78,682 | IA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +12,485 (+53%) · US 78,715 | 35,958#18 of 50 | 23,473#11 of 50 | +12,485+53% | 78,715 | NE |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -930 · US -33 | -2,414#35 of 50 | -1,484#34 of 50 | -930 | -33 | NE |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap 0.0 · US +0.4 | -0.7#34 of 50 | -0.7#33 of 50 | 0.0 | +0.4 | Even |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$1,740 (+3%) · US $77,690 | $61,608#43 of 50 | $59,868#45 of 50 | +$1,740+3% | $77,690 | Even |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$1,590 (-2%) · US $77,024 | $64,883#41 of 50 | $66,473#38 of 50 | -$1,590-2% | $77,024 | Even |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -0.1 · US +1.1 | -0.3#35 of 50 | -0.2#32 of 50 | -0.1 | +1.1 | Even |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$6,068 · US -$11,758 | -$2,317#13 of 50 | -$8,385#21 of 50 | +$6,068 | -$11,758 | IA |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap +$2,177 · US +$31,418 | +$35,836#12 of 50 | +$33,659#21 of 50 | +$2,177 | +$31,418 | IA |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap +$1,534 · US +$35,970 | +$40,466#12 of 50 | +$38,932#20 of 50 | +$1,534 | +$35,970 | IA |
Every metric in the registry, direction-aware: ahead means better for a resident. Ranks are among the states with data. Sources are listed at the foot of the page.
Key takeaways
What the Iowa and Nebraska numbers say when read together.
Neither state is better overall
Iowa (69.2, #14) and Nebraska (71.1, #10) are within 2 composite points. Iowa leads 2 categories, Nebraska leads 4, and 5 are even. The answer depends on which categories matter to you.
Iowa is cheaper day to day
Iowa's cost of living index is 87.8 against 90.1 in Nebraska (US = 100). The typical home costs $239,547 in Iowa and $280,673 in Nebraska. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$2,317 a year after typical costs in Iowa and -$8,385 in Nebraska.
Tax burdens are close
Iowa collects 9.23% of income in state and local taxes (low income tax, high property tax, with sales tax in the middle of the pack); Nebraska collects 8.78% (high property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack).
Nebraska is safer
Median household income is $75,501 in Iowa and $76,376 in Nebraska, with unemployment at 3.5% and 3%. Violent crime runs 234 per 100,000 residents in Iowa and 218 in Nebraska.
Moves between the two run about even
6,626 people moved from Iowa to Nebraska and 4,800 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Iowa is the better fit for families
For families, Iowa ranks #3 of 50 and Nebraska #12; for retirees, Iowa ranks #8 and Nebraska #7.
Iowa vs Nebraska: frequently asked questions
Is Iowa or Nebraska better to live in?
Iowa ranks #14 of 50 overall and Nebraska #10 as of the latest release. Iowa is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 87.8 vs 90.1), collects a similar share of income in taxes. Overall they are 1.9 points apart, too close to call: Iowa leads 2 of 11 categories, Nebraska leads 4.
Is Iowa cheaper than Nebraska?
Iowa is cheaper than Nebraska: cost of living index 87.8 vs 90.1 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$2,317 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Iowa, and -$8,385 in Nebraska. The typical home value is $239,547 in Iowa and $280,673 in Nebraska.
Which has lower taxes, Iowa or Nebraska?
Iowa and Nebraska have similar tax burdens: 9.23% vs 8.78% of income in state and local taxes. Iowa's top income tax rate is 3.8%, its effective property tax rate 1.49% and its combined sales tax 6.94%; Nebraska's are 5.2%, 1.54% and 6.98%.
Is Iowa safer than Nebraska?
Nebraska is safer: 218 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 234 in Iowa, per the FBI. Iowa ranks #16 of 50 for violent crime and Nebraska #12. Property crime is 1,172 per 100,000 in Iowa and 1,379 in Nebraska. The safest tracked cities are Bettendorf, IA, and Papillion, NE.
Are homes more expensive in Iowa or Nebraska?
Homes are 17% more expensive in Nebraska: the typical home value is $239,547 in Iowa and $280,673 in Nebraska. Buying the typical home takes about $70,437 of household income in Iowa and $83,194 in Nebraska, against median incomes of $75,501 and $76,376.
Do people earn more in Iowa or Nebraska?
Iowa and Nebraska pay about the same: median household income is $75,501 vs $76,376, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 3.5% in Iowa and 3% in Nebraska. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Iowa's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 5 after adjusting for local costs and Nebraska's in 0, with 15 even.
Are more people moving from Iowa to Nebraska or from Nebraska to Iowa?
3,156 households moved from Iowa to Nebraska and 3,172 moved from Nebraska to Iowa in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 16 households for Iowa. Movers to Nebraska reported an average income of $52,747; movers to Iowa reported $57,630. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 6,626 people (±1,928) moving from Iowa to Nebraska and 4,800 (±1,250) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Iowa or Nebraska?
Iowa and Nebraska are close for retirees: #8 and #7 of 50 on the retiree index. Iowa has low income tax, high property tax, with sales tax in the middle of the pack; Nebraska has high property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$40,466 left after typical costs in Iowa and +$38,932 in Nebraska.
Which is better for families, Iowa or Nebraska?
Iowa is the better fit for families: #3 of 50 on the families index vs #12 for Nebraska. Center-based infant care costs $13,253 a year in Iowa and $15,080 in Nebraska. High school graduation rates are 89.9% and 87.1%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$2,317 after typical costs in Iowa and -$8,385 in Nebraska.
Which has better schools, Iowa or Nebraska?
Iowa scores higher for education: #9 of 50 vs #20 for Nebraska. Eighth graders average 275 in NAEP math in Iowa and 280 in Nebraska. High school graduation rates are 89.9% in Iowa and 87.1% in Nebraska, and the education category scores are 69 and 63.8 out of 100. Among tracked cities, Urbandale and Gretna have the strongest school metrics.
Compare a different pair
Swap either state, or jump to the matchups people open alongside Iowa vs Nebraska.
Why this pair is featured: bordering states, major moving corridor (3,172 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).