Nebraska vs Wyoming: Which Is Better to Live In?
Nebraska ranks #10 of 50 overall and Wyoming #2 as of the latest release. Nebraska is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 90.1 vs 92.7), carries a 3-point higher tax burden, and has a 18% higher violent crime rate. Wyoming scores higher overall, leading 4 of 11 categories to 4.
- Total tax burden is 34% lower in Wyoming (5.79% vs. 8.78% in Nebraska).
- Property crime rate is 25% lower in Wyoming (1,038 vs. 1,379 in Nebraska).
- Typical home value is 25% lower in Nebraska ($280,673 vs. $371,854 in Wyoming).
| Measure | NebraskaNE | WyomingWY | GapNE−WY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -8.8 pts | 71.1#10 of 50 · A | 79.9#2 of 50 · A+ | -8.8 pts | — | WY |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -2.6 pts (-3%) · US 100 | 90.1#10 of 50 | 92.7#16 of 50 | -2.6 pts-3% | 100 | NE |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$2,085 · US -$11,758 | -$8,385#21 of 50 | -$6,300#20 of 50 | -$2,085 | -$11,758 | WY |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$91,181 (-25%) · US $368,697 | $280,673#14 of 50 | $371,854#27 of 50 | -$91,181-25% | $368,697 | NE |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +2.99 pts · US 8.74% | 8.78%#26 of 50 | 5.79%#2 of 50 | +2.99 pts | 8.74% | WY |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +39 (+21%) · US 328 | 218#12 of 50 | 180#5 of 50 | +39+21% | 328 | WY |
| Median household incomeGap +$844 (+1%) · US $80,903 | $76,376#31 of 50 | $75,532#32 of 50 | +$844+1% | $80,903 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +5.3 pts · US 85.62% | 87.1%#21 of 50 | 81.8%#42 of 50 | +5.3 pts | 85.62% | NE |
| Life expectancyGap +1.5 yrs · US 76.9 | 78.3#15 of 50 | 76.8#28 of 50 | +1.5 yrs | 76.9 | NE |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -1,671 · US -33 | -1,484#34 of 50 | +187#26 of 50 | -1,671 | -33 | WY |
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 Nebraska or Wyoming better to live in?
Wyoming scores higher overall: 79.9 to 71.1 out of 100, #2 of 50 against #10. Nebraska leads 4 of 11 categories, Wyoming leads 4, and 3 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | NebraskaNE | WyomingWY | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap +6.4 | 15% | 56.7#12 · B+ | 50.3#20 · B | +6.4 pts | NE |
| Safety12% of scoregap -8.1 | 12% | 78.0#16 · B+ | 86.1#6 · A | -8.1 pts | WY |
| Health12% of scoregap +6.8 | 12% | 58.2#25 · B | 51.4#29 · C+ | +6.8 pts | NE |
| Education12% of scoregap -1.5 | 12% | 63.8#20 · B | 65.3#16 · B+ | -1.5 pts | Even |
| Affordability10% of scoregap +5.1 | 10% | 81.6#12 · B+ | 76.5#18 · B+ | +5.1 pts | NE |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -8 | 8% | 71.4#8 · A | 79.4#1 · A+ | -8 pts | WY |
| Growth7% of scoregap +2.7 | 7% | 45.2#18 · B+ | 42.5#22 · B | +2.7 pts | Even |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +8 | 7% | 55.6#12 · B+ | 47.6#31 · C+ | +8 pts | NE |
| Livability7% of scoregap -18.1 | 7% | 32.4#26 · B | 50.5#3 · A+ | -18.1 pts | WY |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -73.7 | 6% | 22.0#29 · C+ | 95.7#2 · A+ | -73.7 pts | WY |
| Environment4% of scoregap -2.5 | 4% | 44.1#22 · B | 46.6#18 · B+ | -2.5 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 Nebraska cheaper than Wyoming?
Nebraska is cheaper: cost of living index 90.1 vs 92.7 in Wyoming (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $2,085 more a year in Wyoming after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | NebraskaNE | WyomingWY | GapNE−WY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -2.6 pts (-3%) · US 100 | 90.1#10 of 50 | 92.7#16 of 50 | -2.6 pts-3% | 100 | NE |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -1.3 pts (-1%) · US 100 | 94.1#7 of 50 | 95.4#9 of 50 | -1.3 pts-1% | 100 | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap -1.04¢ (-8%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 12.34¢/kWh#3 of 50 | 13.38¢/kWh#13 of 50 | -1.04¢-8% | 17.84¢/kWh | NE |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$0.34 (-3%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $11.40/Mcf#13 of 50 | $11.74/Mcf#15 of 50 | -$0.34-3% | $15.83/Mcf | Even |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.09 (+3%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.21/gal#26 of 50 | $3.12/gal#17 of 50 | +$0.09+3% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$1,960 (+15%) · US $15,633 | $15,080#24 of 50 | $13,120#16 of 50 | +$1,960+15% | $15,633 | WY |
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 | NebraskaNE | WyomingWY | GapNE−WY | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$847 | +$33,659costs $41,341 | +$34,506costs $40,494 | -$847 | Even |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap +$822 | +$26,386costs $48,614 | +$25,564costs $49,436 | +$822 | NE |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$2,085 | -$8,385costs $83,385 | -$6,300costs $81,300 | -$2,085 | WY |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap +$555 | +$38,932costs $36,067 | +$38,377costs $36,623 | +$555 | Even |
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 | NebraskaNE | WyomingWY | GapNE−WY | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap -$3,367 | $21,353 | $24,720 | -$3,367 | NE |
| ChildcareGap +$3,920 | $30,160 | $26,240 | +$3,920 | WY |
| UtilitiesGap -$125 | $4,325 | $4,450 | -$125 | Even |
| GroceriesGap -$147 | $10,598 | $10,745 | -$147 | Even |
| TransportationGap +$283 | $10,089 | $9,806 | +$283 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap +$1,521 | $6,860 | $5,339 | +$1,521 | WY |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Nebraska or Wyoming?
Wyoming collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 5.79% vs 8.78%. Nebraska has high property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack; Wyoming has no income tax, low property tax, low sales tax.
| Measure | NebraskaNE | WyomingWY | GapNE−WY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +2.99 pts · US 8.74% | 8.78%#26 of 50 | 5.79%#2 of 50 | +2.99 pts | 8.74% | WY |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +5.2 pts · US 5.46% | 5.2%#24 of 50 | none#2 of 50 | +5.2 pts | 5.46% | WY |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.96 pts · US 1.02% | 1.54%#42 of 50 | 0.58%#12 of 50 | +0.96 pts | 1.02% | WY |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +1.42 pts · US 6.66% | 6.98%#23 of 50 | 5.56%#8 of 50 | +1.42 pts | 6.66% | WY |
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 Nebraska or Wyoming?
Homes cost 32% more in Wyoming: a typical home value of $280,673 in Nebraska vs $371,854 in Wyoming. Buying the typical home takes about $83,194 of income in Nebraska and $95,729 in Wyoming; the median household earns $76,376 and $75,532.
| Measure | NebraskaNE | WyomingWY | GapNE−WY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$91,181 (-25%) · US $368,697 | $280,673#14 of 50 | $371,854#27 of 50 | -$91,181-25% | $368,697 | NE |
| Home value change, one yearGap +1.7 pts · US +1.2% | +3.1%#15 of 50 | +1.4%#33 of 50 | +1.7 pts | +1.2% | NE |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$119 (-8%) · US $1,948 | $1,413#9 of 50 | $1,532#17 of 50 | -$119-8% | $1,948 | NE |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$12,535 (-13%) · US $100,006 | $83,194#17 of 50 | $95,729#26 of 50 | -$12,535-13% | $100,006 | NE |
| Home value to income ratioGap -1.2x (-24%) · US 4.6x | 3.7x#12 of 50 | 4.9x#34 of 50 | -1.2x-24% | 4.6x | NE |
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.
| NE | WY | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,444 | $1,913 |
| Income needed vs. median | +9% | +27% |
| Five-year change | +25.6% | +25.1% |
| Market temperature | Cool | Warm |
| Largest metro | Omaha | Cheyenne |
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 Nebraska or Wyoming?
Median household income is about the same, $76,376 in Nebraska and $75,532 in Wyoming, with unemployment at 3% and 3.4%. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Nebraska's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 20 after adjusting for local costs and Wyoming's in 0.
| Measure | NebraskaNE | WyomingWY | GapNE−WY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$844 (+1%) · US $80,903 | $76,376#31 of 50 | $75,532#32 of 50 | +$844+1% | $80,903 | Even |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.4 pts · US 3.95% | 3%#6 of 50 | 3.4%#10 of 50 | -0.4 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap -$5,186 (-7%) · US $64,333 | $67,337#17 of 50 | $72,523#12 of 50 | -$5,186-7% | $64,333 | WY |
| Real GDP growthGap +3.3 pts · US +1.91% | +1.8%#28 of 50 | -1.5%#50 of 50 | +3.3 pts | +1.91% | NE |
| Population growthGap +0.27 pts · US +0.51% | +0.62%#17 of 50 | +0.35%#32 of 50 | +0.27 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 | NE | WY | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family Medicine Physicians | $223,267$200,940 in Omaha | $203,633$185,306 in Cheyenne | NE |
| Software Developers | $141,411$127,270 in Omaha | $128,625$117,049 in Cheyenne | NE |
| Registered Nurses | $90,051$81,046 in Omaha | $77,469$70,497 in Cheyenne | NE |
| Civil Engineers | $102,437$92,193 in Omaha | $91,746$83,489 in Cheyenne | NE |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $69,281$62,353 in Omaha | $59,243$53,911 in Cheyenne | NE |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $75,020$67,518 in Omaha | $66,726$60,721 in Cheyenne | NE |
| General & Operations Managers | $104,988$94,489 in Omaha | $96,752$88,044 in Cheyenne | NE |
| Lawyers | $142,516$128,264 in Omaha | $134,581$122,469 in Cheyenne | NE |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $71,723$64,551 in Omaha | $64,019$58,257 in Cheyenne | NE |
| Secondary School Teachers | $69,523$62,571 in Omaha | $61,856$56,289 in Cheyenne | NE |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $56,370$50,733 in Omaha | $49,484$45,030 in Cheyenne | NE |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $58,814$52,933 in Omaha | $52,707$47,963 in Cheyenne | NE |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $101,091$90,982 in Omaha | $95,089$86,531 in Cheyenne | NE |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $57,030$51,327 in Omaha | $51,290$46,674 in Cheyenne | NE |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $50,587$45,528 in Omaha | $44,963$40,916 in Cheyenne | NE |
| Mental Health Counselors | $56,301$50,671 in Omaha | $51,243$46,631 in Cheyenne | NE |
| Accountants & Auditors | $81,297$73,167 in Omaha | $77,879$70,870 in Cheyenne | NE |
| Construction Laborers | $43,074$38,767 in Omaha | $39,819$36,235 in Cheyenne | NE |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $34,211$30,790 in Omaha | $31,541$28,702 in Cheyenne | NE |
| Electricians | $60,544$54,490 in Omaha | $57,929$52,715 in Cheyenne | NE |
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 Nebraska safer than Wyoming?
Wyoming is safer: 180 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 218 in Nebraska (FBI). Property crime runs 1,379 and 1,038 per 100,000.
| Measure | NebraskaNE | WyomingWY | GapNE−WY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +39 (+21%) · US 328 | 218#12 of 50 | 180#5 of 50 | +39+21% | 328 | WY |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +341 (+33%) · US 1,535 | 1,379#19 of 50 | 1,038#7 of 50 | +341+33% | 1,535 | WY |
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.
- Papillion, NE48 violent per 100K
- Laramie, WY93 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Nebraska or Wyoming?
Nebraska and Wyoming are close on education (#20 and #16 of 50), with high school graduation rates of 87.1% and 81.8%. Nebraska scores higher for health (#25 vs #29); life expectancy is 78.3 years in Nebraska and 76.8 in Wyoming.
| Measure | NebraskaNE | WyomingWY | GapNE−WY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +2 · US 273 | 280#7 of 50 | 278#12 of 50 | +2 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -4 · US 257 | 256#30 of 50 | 260#15 of 50 | -4 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +5.3 pts · US 85.62% | 87.1%#21 of 50 | 81.8%#42 of 50 | +5.3 pts | 85.62% | NE |
| Life expectancyGap +1.5 yrs · US 76.9 | 78.3#15 of 50 | 76.8#28 of 50 | +1.5 yrs | 76.9 | NE |
| Adults with obesityGap +5.1 pts · US 34.03% | 37.6%#42 of 50 | 32.5%#17 of 50 | +5.1 pts | 34.03% | WY |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -3.2 pts · US 7.6% | 7.1%#25 of 50 | 10.3%#43 of 50 | -3.2 pts | 7.6% | NE |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -1 pts (-3%) · US 38.8 | 34#9 of 50 | 35#10 of 50 | -1 pts-3% | 38.8 | Even |
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).
- Gretna, NEeducation score 98
- Powell, WYeducation score 97
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: Nebraska #20, Wyoming #16. Health: Nebraska #25, Wyoming #29.
Are more people moving from Nebraska to Wyoming, or from Wyoming to Nebraska?
387 households moved from Wyoming to Nebraska in the latest IRS release (average income $51,266); the flow from Nebraska to Wyoming is too small to appear among Wyoming's top origin states. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 327 people (±328) moving from Nebraska to Wyoming and 1,257 (±785) the other way, a net gain of about 930 people for Nebraska beyond the margin of error.
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 | NebraskaNE | WyomingWY | GapNE−WY | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +9,287 (+73%) | 21,989#40 of 50 | 12,702#49 of 50 | +9,287+73% | NE |
| Households moving outIRSGap +10,958 (+88%) | 23,473#11 of 50 | 12,515#2 of 50 | +10,958+88% | WY |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -1,671 | -1,484#34 of 50 | +187#26 of 50 | -1,671 | WY |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -1.0 | -0.7#33 of 50 | +0.3#24 of 50 | -1.0 | WY |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$20,020 (-25%) | $59,868#45 of 50 | $79,888#23 of 50 | -$20,020-25% | WY |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$2,686 (-4%) | $66,473#38 of 50 | $69,159#33 of 50 | -$2,686-4% | WY |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -2.7 | -0.2#32 of 50 | +2.5#15 of 50 | -2.7 | WY |
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, Nebraska or Wyoming?
Wyoming is the better fit for families, retirees, remote workers, and outdoor enthusiasts; 2 of the six lifestyle indexes are within 4 places. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | NebraskaNE | WyomingWY | GapNE−WY | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +10 places | #12score 78.8 | #2score 86.8 | +10 places | WY |
| RetireesGap +6 places | #7score 78.2 | #1score 85.6 | +6 places | WY |
| Remote WorkersGap +8 places | #9score 67.2 | #1score 83.6 | +8 places | WY |
| Young ProfessionalsGap -2 places | #6score 69.3 | #8score 67.5 | -2 places | Even |
| Small BusinessGap +1 places | #7score 73.6 | #6score 77.9 | +1 places | Even |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +18 places | #19score 51.4 | #1score 95 | +18 places | WY |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesWyoming (#2 vs #12)
- RetireesWyoming (#1 vs #7)
- Remote WorkersWyoming (#1 vs #9)
- Young ProfessionalsEven (#6 vs #8)
- Small BusinessEven (#7 vs #6)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsWyoming (#1 vs #19)
Which cities stand out in Nebraska and Wyoming?
Nebraska has 20 tracked cities and Wyoming has 20; the largest are Omaha and Cheyenne. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | NebraskaNE | WyomingWY |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Omaha488,837 people | Cheyenne65,239 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Papillionscore 68.8 | Jacksonscore 70.9 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Papillion48 violent per 100K | Laramie93 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Kearneycost index 86.3 | Gillettecost index 91.6 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | South Sioux Citywalkability 13.9 of 20 | Torringtonwalkability 12.8 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Scottsbluffcounty median AQI 23 | Rawlinscounty median AQI 8 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Gretna98% graduation rate | Powell97% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Gretnamedian income $123,992 | Ranchettesmedian income $121,445 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Norfolk+1.3% growth | Cheyenne+1.1% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Nebraska and Wyoming compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Nebraska carries AAA credit rating and Wyoming AAA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | NebraskaNE | WyomingWY | GapNE−WY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap +1 pts · US 29.34% | 34%#17 of 50 | 33%#18 of 50 | +1 pts | 29.34% | NE |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +10.5 (+28%) · US 29.6 | 48.5#43 of 50 | 38.0#35 of 50 | +10.5+28% | 29.6 | WY |
| Public land shareGap -46.8 pts · US 17.16% | 1.4%#47 of 50 | 48.2%#6 of 50 | -46.8 pts | 17.16% | WY |
| Mean travel time to workGap +0.2 min · US 25.2 min | 19.9 min#6 of 50 | 19.7 min#4 of 50 | +0.2 min | 25.2 min | Even |
| Commuters using public transitGap -0.6 pts · US 2.29% | 0.5%#41 of 50 | 1.1%#23 of 50 | -0.6 pts | 2.29% | WY |
| Workers working from homeGap 0 pts · US 12.28% | 9.7%#38 of 50 | 9.7%#37 of 50 | 0 pts | 12.28% | Even |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +2 pts · US 92.67% | 91.9%#37 of 50 | 89.9%#48 of 50 | +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 | NebraskaNE | WyomingWY | GapNE−WY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 100#4 of 50 | 100#1 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -32.9 pts · US 12.39% | 12.3%#19 of 50 | 45.2%#2 of 50 | -32.9 pts | 12.39% | WY |
| Pension funded ratioGap +10 pts · US 74.3% | 87%#8 of 50 | 77%#20 of 50 | +10 pts | 74.3% | NE |
| State debt per capitaGap -$140 (-10%) · US $3,506 | $1,280#1 of 50 | $1,420#2 of 50 | -$140-10% | $3,506 | NE |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -0.3 pts · US +4.66% | +8.2%#6 of 50 | +8.5%#4 of 50 | -0.3 pts | +4.66% | Even |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Nebraska AAA, Wyoming 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).
Nebraska vs Wyoming: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Nebraska is ahead on 15 of 51, Wyoming on 19, and 17 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | NebraskaNE | WyomingWY | GapNE−WY | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +1,429,253 (+243%) · US 6.8 million | 2 million#38 of 50 | 588,753#50 of 50 | +1,429,253+243% | 6.8 million | NE |
| Median household incomeGap +$844 (+1%) · US $80,903 | $76,376#31 of 50 | $75,532#32 of 50 | +$844+1% | $80,903 | Even |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.4 pts · US 3.95% | 3%#6 of 50 | 3.4%#10 of 50 | -0.4 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| Population growthGap +0.27 pts · US +0.51% | +0.62%#17 of 50 | +0.35%#32 of 50 | +0.27 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap -$5,186 (-7%) · US $64,333 | $67,337#17 of 50 | $72,523#12 of 50 | -$5,186-7% | $64,333 | WY |
| Real GDP growthGap +3.3 pts · US +1.91% | +1.8%#28 of 50 | -1.5%#50 of 50 | +3.3 pts | +1.91% | NE |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +39 (+21%) · US 328 | 218#12 of 50 | 180#5 of 50 | +39+21% | 328 | WY |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +341 (+33%) · US 1,535 | 1,379#19 of 50 | 1,038#7 of 50 | +341+33% | 1,535 | WY |
| High school graduation rateGap +5.3 pts · US 85.62% | 87.1%#21 of 50 | 81.8%#42 of 50 | +5.3 pts | 85.62% | NE |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -5 · US 237 | 238#22 of 50 | 243#2 of 50 | -5 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +2 · US 273 | 280#7 of 50 | 278#12 of 50 | +2 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -10 · US 214 | 212#39 of 50 | 222#2 of 50 | -10 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -4 · US 257 | 256#30 of 50 | 260#15 of 50 | -4 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +1.5 yrs · US 76.9 | 78.3#15 of 50 | 76.8#28 of 50 | +1.5 yrs | 76.9 | NE |
| Adults with obesityGap +5.1 pts · US 34.03% | 37.6%#42 of 50 | 32.5%#17 of 50 | +5.1 pts | 34.03% | WY |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -3.2 pts · US 7.6% | 7.1%#25 of 50 | 10.3%#43 of 50 | -3.2 pts | 7.6% | NE |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$91,181 (-25%) · US $368,697 | $280,673#14 of 50 | $371,854#27 of 50 | -$91,181-25% | $368,697 | NE |
| Home value change, one yearGap +1.7 pts · US +1.2% | +3.1%#15 of 50 | +1.4%#33 of 50 | +1.7 pts | +1.2% | NE |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$119 (-8%) · US $1,948 | $1,413#9 of 50 | $1,532#17 of 50 | -$119-8% | $1,948 | NE |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$12,535 (-13%) · US $100,006 | $83,194#17 of 50 | $95,729#26 of 50 | -$12,535-13% | $100,006 | NE |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -2.6 pts (-3%) · US 100 | 90.1#10 of 50 | 92.7#16 of 50 | -2.6 pts-3% | 100 | NE |
| Home value to income ratioGap -1.2x (-24%) · US 4.6x | 3.7x#12 of 50 | 4.9x#34 of 50 | -1.2x-24% | 4.6x | NE |
| Residential electricity priceGap -1.04¢ (-8%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 12.34¢/kWh#3 of 50 | 13.38¢/kWh#13 of 50 | -1.04¢-8% | 17.84¢/kWh | NE |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$0.34 (-3%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $11.40/Mcf#13 of 50 | $11.74/Mcf#15 of 50 | -$0.34-3% | $15.83/Mcf | Even |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.09 (+3%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.21/gal#26 of 50 | $3.12/gal#17 of 50 | +$0.09+3% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -1.3 pts (-1%) · US 100 | 94.1#7 of 50 | 95.4#9 of 50 | -1.3 pts-1% | 100 | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$1,960 (+15%) · US $15,633 | $15,080#24 of 50 | $13,120#16 of 50 | +$1,960+15% | $15,633 | WY |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +2.99 pts · US 8.74% | 8.78%#26 of 50 | 5.79%#2 of 50 | +2.99 pts | 8.74% | WY |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +5.2 pts · US 5.46% | 5.2%#24 of 50 | none#2 of 50 | +5.2 pts | 5.46% | WY |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.96 pts · US 1.02% | 1.54%#42 of 50 | 0.58%#12 of 50 | +0.96 pts | 1.02% | WY |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +1.42 pts · US 6.66% | 6.98%#23 of 50 | 5.56%#8 of 50 | +1.42 pts | 6.66% | WY |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 100#4 of 50 | 100#1 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -32.9 pts · US 12.39% | 12.3%#19 of 50 | 45.2%#2 of 50 | -32.9 pts | 12.39% | WY |
| Pension funded ratioGap +10 pts · US 74.3% | 87%#8 of 50 | 77%#20 of 50 | +10 pts | 74.3% | NE |
| State debt per capitaGap -$140 (-10%) · US $3,506 | $1,280#1 of 50 | $1,420#2 of 50 | -$140-10% | $3,506 | NE |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -0.3 pts · US +4.66% | +8.2%#6 of 50 | +8.5%#4 of 50 | -0.3 pts | +4.66% | Even |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -1 pts (-3%) · US 38.8 | 34#9 of 50 | 35#10 of 50 | -1 pts-3% | 38.8 | Even |
| Renewable share of electricityGap +1 pts · US 29.34% | 34%#17 of 50 | 33%#18 of 50 | +1 pts | 29.34% | NE |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +10.5 (+28%) · US 29.6 | 48.5#43 of 50 | 38.0#35 of 50 | +10.5+28% | 29.6 | WY |
| Public land shareGap -46.8 pts · US 17.16% | 1.4%#47 of 50 | 48.2%#6 of 50 | -46.8 pts | 17.16% | WY |
| Mean travel time to workGap +0.2 min · US 25.2 min | 19.9 min#6 of 50 | 19.7 min#4 of 50 | +0.2 min | 25.2 min | Even |
| Commuters using public transitGap -0.6 pts · US 2.29% | 0.5%#41 of 50 | 1.1%#23 of 50 | -0.6 pts | 2.29% | WY |
| Workers working from homeGap 0 pts · US 12.28% | 9.7%#38 of 50 | 9.7%#37 of 50 | 0 pts | 12.28% | Even |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +2 pts · US 92.67% | 91.9%#37 of 50 | 89.9%#48 of 50 | +2 pts | 92.67% | NE |
| Households moving inIRSGap +9,287 (+73%) · US 78,682 | 21,989#40 of 50 | 12,702#49 of 50 | +9,287+73% | 78,682 | NE |
| Households moving outIRSGap +10,958 (+88%) · US 78,715 | 23,473#11 of 50 | 12,515#2 of 50 | +10,958+88% | 78,715 | WY |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -1,671 · US -33 | -1,484#34 of 50 | +187#26 of 50 | -1,671 | -33 | WY |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -1.0 · US +0.4 | -0.7#33 of 50 | +0.3#24 of 50 | -1.0 | +0.4 | WY |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$20,020 (-25%) · US $77,690 | $59,868#45 of 50 | $79,888#23 of 50 | -$20,020-25% | $77,690 | WY |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$2,686 (-4%) · US $77,024 | $66,473#38 of 50 | $69,159#33 of 50 | -$2,686-4% | $77,024 | WY |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -2.7 · US +1.1 | -0.2#32 of 50 | +2.5#15 of 50 | -2.7 | +1.1 | WY |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$2,085 · US -$11,758 | -$8,385#21 of 50 | -$6,300#20 of 50 | -$2,085 | -$11,758 | WY |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$847 · US +$31,418 | +$33,659#21 of 50 | +$34,506#17 of 50 | -$847 | +$31,418 | Even |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap +$555 · US +$35,970 | +$38,932#20 of 50 | +$38,377#21 of 50 | +$555 | +$35,970 | Even |
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 Nebraska and Wyoming numbers say when read together.
Wyoming ranks higher overall
Wyoming leads 4 of the 11 categories to Nebraska's 4, with 3 even; Nebraska is ahead on transportation and health. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Nebraska is ahead on 15 and Wyoming on 19.
Nebraska is cheaper day to day
Nebraska's cost of living index is 90.1 against 92.7 in Wyoming (US = 100). The typical home costs $280,673 in Nebraska and $371,854 in Wyoming. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$8,385 a year after typical costs in Nebraska and -$6,300 in Wyoming.
Wyoming takes a smaller share in taxes
Nebraska collects 8.78% of income in state and local taxes (high property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack); Wyoming collects 5.79% (no income tax, low property tax, low sales tax).
Wyoming is safer
Median household income is $76,376 in Nebraska and $75,532 in Wyoming, with unemployment at 3% and 3.4%. Violent crime runs 218 per 100,000 residents in Nebraska and 180 in Wyoming.
People move to Nebraska on net
1,257 people moved to Nebraska from Wyoming in the latest Census release, against 327 going the other way.
Wyoming fits families and retirees better
For families, Nebraska ranks #12 of 50 and Wyoming #2; for retirees, Nebraska ranks #7 and Wyoming #1.
Nebraska vs Wyoming: frequently asked questions
Is Nebraska or Wyoming better to live in?
Nebraska ranks #10 of 50 overall and Wyoming #2 as of the latest release. Nebraska is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 90.1 vs 92.7), carries a 3-point higher tax burden, and has a 18% higher violent crime rate. Wyoming scores higher overall, leading 4 of 11 categories to 4.
Is Nebraska cheaper than Wyoming?
Nebraska is cheaper than Wyoming: cost of living index 90.1 vs 92.7 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$8,385 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Nebraska, and -$6,300 in Wyoming. The typical home value is $280,673 in Nebraska and $371,854 in Wyoming.
Which has lower taxes, Nebraska or Wyoming?
Wyoming has the lower tax burden: 5.79% of income in state and local taxes vs 8.78% in Nebraska. Nebraska's top income tax rate is 5.2%, its effective property tax rate 1.54% and its combined sales tax 6.98%; Wyoming's are zero, 0.58% and 5.56%.
Is Nebraska safer than Wyoming?
Wyoming is safer: 180 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 218 in Nebraska, per the FBI. Nebraska ranks #12 of 50 for violent crime and Wyoming #5. Property crime is 1,379 per 100,000 in Nebraska and 1,038 in Wyoming. The safest tracked cities are Papillion, NE, and Laramie, WY.
Are homes more expensive in Nebraska or Wyoming?
Homes are 32% more expensive in Wyoming: the typical home value is $280,673 in Nebraska and $371,854 in Wyoming. Buying the typical home takes about $83,194 of household income in Nebraska and $95,729 in Wyoming, against median incomes of $76,376 and $75,532.
Do people earn more in Nebraska or Wyoming?
Nebraska and Wyoming pay about the same: median household income is $76,376 vs $75,532, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 3% in Nebraska and 3.4% in Wyoming. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Nebraska's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 20 after adjusting for local costs and Wyoming's in 0.
Are more people moving from Nebraska to Wyoming or from Wyoming to Nebraska?
387 households moved from Wyoming to Nebraska in the latest IRS release (average income $51,266); the flow from Nebraska to Wyoming is too small to appear among Wyoming's top origin states. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 327 people (±328) moving from Nebraska to Wyoming and 1,257 (±785) the other way, a net gain of about 930 people for Nebraska beyond the margin of error.
Which is better for retirees, Nebraska or Wyoming?
Wyoming is the better fit for retirees: #1 of 50 on the retiree index vs #7 for Nebraska. Nebraska has high property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack; Wyoming has no income tax, low property tax, low sales tax. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$38,932 left after typical costs in Nebraska and +$38,377 in Wyoming.
Which is better for families, Nebraska or Wyoming?
Wyoming is the better fit for families: #2 of 50 on the families index vs #12 for Nebraska. Center-based infant care costs $15,080 a year in Nebraska and $13,120 in Wyoming. High school graduation rates are 87.1% and 81.8%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$8,385 after typical costs in Nebraska and -$6,300 in Wyoming.
Is Wyoming better than Nebraska?
Yes: Wyoming ranks higher than Nebraska overall, #2 of 50 vs #10, with a composite score of 79.9 to 71.1. Wyoming leads 4 of 11 categories and Nebraska leads 4, including transportation and health. Which is better for you depends on how you weigh cost, safety, schools, taxes and pay.
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Why this pair is featured: bordering states.