Smallest Cities in Nebraska

Top 34 cities ranked by smallest cities

Largest Cities Smallest Cities Most Dense Least Dense Highest Income Lowest Income Lowest Unemployment Highest Unemployment Lowest Poverty Highest Poverty Highest Home Value Most Affordable Highest Rent Lowest Rent Most Educated Youngest Cities Oldest Cities Safest Cities Highest Crime Warmest Cities Coldest Cities Rainiest Cities Driest Cities

All Countries · United States · Nebraska

Smallest Cities — Nebraska

1 Chadron 5,207

2 Holdrege 5,503

3 Offutt AFB 5,663

4 Wayne 6,055

5 Sidney 6,396

6 Ralston 6,445

7 Schuyler 6,517

8 Plattsmouth 6,680

9 Nebraska City 7,287

10 McCook 7,360

11 Crete 7,521

12 Seward 7,665

13 Blair 7,868

14 Alliance 8,089

15 York 8,114

16 Gering 8,567

17 Gretna 9,117

18 Chalco 10,625

19 Lexington 10,693

20 Beatrice 12,233

21 South Sioux City 13,871

22 Scottsbluff 14,406

23 La Vista 16,594

24 North Platte 23,030

25 Papillion 24,063

26 Columbus 24,188

27 Hastings 25,005

28 Norfolk 25,962

29 Fremont 27,321

30 Kearney 34,024

31 Grand Island 52,761

32 Bellevue 64,355

33 Lincoln 291,932

34 Omaha 488,197

The smallest cities in Nebraska (with populations above 5,000) offer a different quality of life compared to major metropolitan areas. Chadron has a population of just 5,207. These communities often feature lower costs of living, stronger neighborhood connections, and less congestion.

Small cities can offer significant advantages for residents seeking affordable housing, shorter commutes, and a close-knit community feel. Many serve as regional centers for surrounding rural areas, providing essential services while maintaining a small-town atmosphere.

Despite their smaller size, many of these cities have thriving local economies, good school systems, and access to outdoor recreation. They represent an alternative to the fast-paced lifestyle of major metropolitan areas.

Did You Know?

1. At 5,207 residents, Chadron is smaller than a single large apartment complex in New York City.
2. Small cities (5,000-10,000) make up the majority of incorporated places in the United States.
3. Many of the smallest cities serve as county seats or regional service centers for surrounding rural communities.

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