Nebraska might not make national housing headlines, but its small towns are quietly offering some of the best real estate value in the Midwest. According to the Zillow Home Value Index, the 21 most affordable towns across the state have an average home value of just $89,465—far below the state average
But these aren’t stagnant markets. What’s particularly striking is the average growth rate of 39.02% over the past five years, demonstrating that even affordable markets have seen substantial appreciation.
Red Cloud stands out with an impressive 75.52% value increase since 2020, while towns like Alexandria show more modest growth at 17.85%. These varying growth patterns highlight the diverse economic factors affecting small Nebraska communities.
21. Wallace
Historic home prices and percent change over time:
- 2025 Home Value: $102,773
- 2020 Home Value: $84,964
- 2015 Home Value: $62,890
- 2010 Home Value: N/A
- % Change from 2020 to 2025: 20.96%
- % Change from 2015 to 2025: 63.42%
- % Change from 2010 to 2025: N/A
About Wallace
Wallace offers you remarkable value as the most expensive town on our affordable list. Since 2020, property values have increased by 20.96%, making it a stable investment while remaining accessible to budget-conscious homebuyers. The housing market here has shown steady growth without the volatility seen in larger cities, allowing you to enjoy both stability and potential appreciation. With prices well below the state average, Wallace represents an opportunity to own a piece of rural Nebraska charm without breaking the bank.
20. Rulo
Historic home prices and percent change over time:
- 2025 Home Value: $101,897
- 2020 Home Value: N/A
- 2015 Home Value: N/A
- 2010 Home Value: N/A
- % Change from 2020 to 2025: N/A
- % Change from 2015 to 2025: N/A
- % Change from 2010 to 2025: N/A
About Rulo
Rulo is a newcomer to Zillow’s tracking data, with comprehensive values only available for 2025. Situated along the Missouri River in the southeastern corner of Nebraska, Rulo has a rich history dating back to the steamboat era. This historic river town offers you exceptional value with homes averaging just $101,897, nearly 60% lower than the national average. While limited historical pricing data means you’ll need to do additional research before investing, the town’s strategic location near the river and agricultural resources suggests potential for future growth.
19. Orleans
Historic home prices and percent change over time:
- 2025 Home Value: $101,125
- 2020 Home Value: N/A
- 2015 Home Value: N/A
- 2010 Home Value: N/A
- % Change from 2020 to 2025: N/A
- % Change from 2015 to 2025: N/A
- % Change from 2010 to 2025: N/A
About Orleans
Orleans is a newcomer to Zillow’s tracking data, with comprehensive values only available for 2025. Located in Harlan County, Orleans gives you access to outdoor recreation at nearby Harlan County Reservoir, one of Nebraska’s largest bodies of water. Your dollar stretches remarkably far here, with the average home value of $101,125 representing extraordinary value compared to state and national averages. Though historical price data is limited, Orleans’ inclusion in Zillow’s tracking suggests increased market interest.
18. Sargent
Historic home prices and percent change over time:
- 2025 Home Value: $101,043
- 2020 Home Value: N/A
- 2015 Home Value: N/A
- 2010 Home Value: N/A
- % Change from 2020 to 2025: N/A
- % Change from 2015 to 2025: N/A
- % Change from 2010 to 2025: N/A
About Sargent
Sargent is a newcomer to Zillow’s tracking data, with comprehensive values only available for 2025. Nestled in the scenic Middle Loup River Valley in central Nebraska, Sargent combines natural beauty with extraordinary affordability. At $101,043, the average home value here allows you to enter the housing market at a fraction of what you’d pay in metropolitan areas. While historical price data isn’t available, Sargent’s recent inclusion in market tracking suggests increasing buyer interest. You’ll find the town’s small population creates a tight-knit community atmosphere where neighbors still look out for each other.
17. Creighton
Historic home prices and percent change over time:
- 2025 Home Value: $100,871
- 2020 Home Value: $76,346
- 2015 Home Value: N/A
- 2010 Home Value: N/A
- % Change from 2020 to 2025: 32.12%
- % Change from 2015 to 2025: N/A
- % Change from 2010 to 2025: N/A
About Creighton
At $100,871, Creighton places at number 17 on our affordability list. You’ll find property values here significantly below Nebraska averages, making homeownership accessible on almost any budget. This Knox County town has shown impressive resilience with a 32.12% value increase since 2020, demonstrating healthy market dynamics despite its affordability. The town’s agricultural roots provide economic stability, while its school system offers educational opportunities that make it suitable for families. With values trending upward at a sustainable pace, you’re looking at both current affordability and promising appreciation potential.
16. Wymore
Historic home prices and percent change over time:
- 2025 Home Value: $100,002
- 2020 Home Value: $72,906
- 2015 Home Value: $55,163
- 2010 Home Value: $51,590
- % Change from 2020 to 2025: 37.17%
- % Change from 2015 to 2025: 81.29%
- % Change from 2010 to 2025: 93.84%
About Wymore
With comprehensive data spanning back to 2010, Wymore gives you a clear picture of long-term property value trends. You’ll appreciate how home values have evolved over 15 years, providing confidence in your investment decision. This Gage County town stands out on our list as the only community with complete data across all time periods, showing remarkable stability and consistent growth. The impressive 93.84% value increase since 2010 demonstrates long-term appreciation while maintaining affordability at $100,002. For investors or first-time homebuyers, Wymore’s documented price history provides valuable insight into market patterns and reduced uncertainty compared to towns with limited historical data.
15. Cedar Rapids
Historic home prices and percent change over time:
- 2025 Home Value: $99,327
- 2020 Home Value: N/A
- 2015 Home Value: N/A
- 2010 Home Value: N/A
- % Change from 2020 to 2025: N/A
- % Change from 2015 to 2025: N/A
- % Change from 2010 to 2025: N/A
About Cedar Rapids
Cedar Rapids is a newcomer to Zillow’s tracking data, with comprehensive values only available for 2025. Not to be confused with its larger Iowa namesake, Nebraska’s Cedar Rapids offers you exceptional value in the heart of Boone County. At $99,327, the average home price here represents extraordinary affordability in today’s market. The town’s location along the beautiful Cedar River provides recreational opportunities that enhance property appeal beyond just the price point. Your investment potential here is bolstered by the town’s agricultural economic base and proximity to larger communities like Norfolk and Columbus.
14. Long Pine
Historic home prices and percent change over time:
- 2025 Home Value: $98,609
- 2020 Home Value: $72,606
- 2015 Home Value: N/A
- 2010 Home Value: N/A
- % Change from 2020 to 2025: 35.81%
- % Change from 2015 to 2025: N/A
- % Change from 2010 to 2025: N/A
About Long Pine
At $98,609, Long Pine places at number 14 on our affordability list. You’ll find property values here significantly below Nebraska averages, making homeownership accessible on almost any budget. Long Pine has shown healthy appreciation with a 35.81% increase since 2020, balancing growth with continued affordability. The area’s natural beauty, including the scenic Long Pine Creek canyon, adds recreational and aesthetic value to properties beyond their modest price tags. For those seeking a peaceful retreat with small-town charm, Long Pine delivers an authentic Nebraska experience at a fraction of what you’d pay in larger markets.
13. Verdigre
Historic home prices and percent change over time:
- 2025 Home Value: $95,012
- 2020 Home Value: $66,870
- 2015 Home Value: N/A
- 2010 Home Value: N/A
- % Change from 2020 to 2025: 42.09%
- % Change from 2015 to 2025: N/A
- % Change from 2010 to 2025: N/A
About Verdigre
At $95,012, Verdigre places at number 13 on our affordability list. You’ll find property values here significantly below Nebraska averages, making homeownership accessible on almost any budget. Known as the “Kolache Capital of Nebraska,” this charming Knox County town offers you a unique cultural experience with its strong Czech heritage. Verdigre has demonstrated impressive growth with a 42.09% value increase since 2020, showing strong market momentum while maintaining affordability.
12. Red Cloud
Historic home prices and percent change over time:
- 2025 Home Value: $93,051
- 2020 Home Value: $53,014
- 2015 Home Value: $39,204
- 2010 Home Value: N/A
- % Change from 2020 to 2025: 75.52%
- % Change from 2015 to 2025: 137.35%
- % Change from 2010 to 2025: N/A
About Red Cloud
In Red Cloud, you’re looking at an impressive growth market despite its affordable status. With a substantial 75.52% increase since 2020, this community demonstrates that affordable doesn’t mean stagnant. Real estate investors will be particularly intrigued by Red Cloud’s remarkable price trajectory – not only has it posted the highest five-year growth rate among our affordable towns, but its 137.35% increase since 2015 suggests a market with sustained momentum. At $93,051, properties here remain extraordinarily affordable despite this impressive appreciation.
11. Gordon
Historic home prices and percent change over time:
- 2025 Home Value: $90,818
- 2020 Home Value: $57,098
- 2015 Home Value: N/A
- 2010 Home Value: N/A
- % Change from 2020 to 2025: 59.06%
- % Change from 2015 to 2025: N/A
- % Change from 2010 to 2025: N/A
About Gordon
In Gordon, you’re looking at an impressive growth market despite its affordable status. With a substantial 59.06% increase since 2020, this community demonstrates that affordable doesn’t mean stagnant. At $90,818, average home values here offer exceptional affordability while showing strong appreciation potential. You’ll appreciate Gordon’s proximity to outdoor recreation, including the nearby Sandhills region and Pine Ridge area, adding lifestyle value beyond just housing costs. For investors, Gordon’s impressive growth rate – second only to Red Cloud among our affordable towns – suggests a market gaining momentum while still maintaining prices well below state and national averages.
10. Guide Rock
Historic home prices and percent change over time:
- 2025 Home Value: $90,601
- 2020 Home Value: $74,755
- 2015 Home Value: N/A
- 2010 Home Value: N/A
- % Change from 2020 to 2025: 21.20%
- % Change from 2015 to 2025: N/A
- % Change from 2010 to 2025: N/A
About Guide Rock
Guide Rock offers you stable housing prices with a modest 21.20% growth since 2020. This steady appreciation pattern suggests a balanced market where your housing investment can grow without the volatility of higher-priced areas. At $90,601, home values here represent extraordinary value, especially considering the area’s recreational opportunities and peaceful rural setting. Your housing dollar stretches remarkably far here – what might purchase a small starter home in larger markets could buy a spacious property with generous land in Guide Rock. For those seeking authentic small-town living with fishing, hunting, and outdoor recreation nearby, this affordable community deserves serious consideration.
9. Chester
Historic home prices and percent change over time:
- 2025 Home Value: $89,357
- 2020 Home Value: $64,124
- 2015 Home Value: N/A
- 2010 Home Value: N/A
- % Change from 2020 to 2025: 39.35%
- % Change from 2015 to 2025: N/A
- % Change from 2010 to 2025: N/A
About Chester
At $89,357, Chester places at number 9 on our affordability list. You’ll find property values here significantly below Nebraska averages, making homeownership accessible on almost any budget. Chester has demonstrated healthy market dynamics with a 39.35% value increase since 2020, balancing growth with continued affordability. Your investment potential here benefits from both current value and demonstrated appreciation, suggesting Chester has found the sweet spot between growth and affordability that characterizes the most promising small-town markets.
8. Verdon
Historic home prices and percent change over time:
- 2025 Home Value: $87,412
- 2020 Home Value: $68,637
- 2015 Home Value: N/A
- 2010 Home Value: N/A
- % Change from 2020 to 2025: 27.35%
- % Change from 2015 to 2025: N/A
- % Change from 2010 to 2025: N/A
About Verdon
Verdon offers you stable housing prices with a modest 27.35% growth since 2020. At $87,412, Verdon’s average home value represents remarkable affordability while still showing healthy appreciation. The town’s location near the Missouri River adds recreational opportunities and scenic beauty that enhance property appeal beyond just the price point. For those seeking a peaceful lifestyle with moderately growing property values, Verdon offers an attractive combination of current affordability and gentle appreciation without the market volatility seen in faster-growing areas.
7. North Loup
Historic home prices and percent change over time:
- 2025 Home Value: $86,806
- 2020 Home Value: $53,389
- 2015 Home Value: N/A
- 2010 Home Value: N/A
- % Change from 2020 to 2025: 62.59%
- % Change from 2015 to 2025: N/A
- % Change from 2010 to 2025: N/A
About North Loup
In North Loup, you’re looking at an impressive growth market despite its affordable status. With a substantial 62.59% increase since 2020, this community demonstrates that affordable doesn’t mean stagnant. At $86,806, home values here provide exceptional affordability while the strong growth rate – third highest among our affordable towns – suggests increasing market interest. You’ll appreciate the authentic Nebraska experience here, with traditional community events and a pace of life that contrasts sharply with urban areas, all while benefiting from home values that have demonstrated remarkable appreciation over the past five years.
6. Ansley
Historic home prices and percent change over time:
- 2025 Home Value: $82,867
- 2020 Home Value: N/A
- 2015 Home Value: N/A
- 2010 Home Value: N/A
- % Change from 2020 to 2025: N/A
- % Change from 2015 to 2025: N/A
- % Change from 2010 to 2025: N/A
About Ansley
Ansley is a newcomer to Zillow’s tracking data, with comprehensive values only available for 2025. At $82,867, average home values here represent extraordinary value in today’s real estate market. Though historical price data is limited, Ansley’s recent addition to market tracking suggests increasing buyer interest that could drive future appreciation. You’ll find that Ansley exemplifies the value proposition of small-town Nebraska – authentic community connections, affordable housing, and quality of life factors that urban residents often sacrifice for higher-priced real estate.
5. Oakdale
Historic home prices and percent change over time:
- 2025 Home Value: $78,249
- 2020 Home Value: $62,024
- 2015 Home Value: N/A
- 2010 Home Value: N/A
- % Change from 2020 to 2025: 26.16%
- % Change from 2015 to 2025: N/A
- % Change from 2010 to 2025: N/A
About Oakdale
Oakdale offers you stable housing prices with a modest 26.16% growth since 2020. This quiet Antelope County town in northeastern Nebraska combines extraordinary affordability with a peaceful rural setting that many find increasingly appealing in today’s hectic world. At $78,249, Oakdale’s average home value represents remarkable value while still showing healthy appreciation over the past five years. For those seeking affordability without sacrificing appreciation potential, Oakdale’s moderate but steady growth rate suggests a market that can provide both current value and future returns without the volatility of faster-growing areas.
4. Superior
Historic home prices and percent change over time:
- 2025 Home Value: $76,894
- 2020 Home Value: $51,176
- 2015 Home Value: N/A
- 2010 Home Value: N/A
- % Change from 2020 to 2025: 50.25%
- % Change from 2015 to 2025: N/A
- % Change from 2010 to 2025: N/A
About Superior
In Superior, you’re looking at an impressive growth market despite its affordable status. With a substantial 50.25% increase since 2020, this community demonstrates that affordable doesn’t mean stagnant. Located in Nuckolls County along the Kansas border, Superior offers you exceptional value with average home prices of just $76,894 – a fraction of what you’d pay in Nebraska’s metropolitan areas. The town’s Victorian downtown district adds architectural charm and historical character that enhances property appeal.
3. Alexandria
Historic home prices and percent change over time:
- 2025 Home Value: $70,001
- 2020 Home Value: $59,399
- 2015 Home Value: N/A
- 2010 Home Value: N/A
- % Change from 2020 to 2025: 17.85%
- % Change from 2015 to 2025: N/A
- % Change from 2010 to 2025: N/A
About Alexandria
Alexandria offers you stable housing prices with a modest 17.85% growth since 2020. Located in Thayer County in south-central Nebraska, Alexandria combines extraordinary affordability with a peaceful rural setting just minutes from the Kansas border. At $70,001, average home values here rank Alexandria as our third most affordable town, providing exceptional value for first-time homebuyers or those seeking to escape high-cost housing markets. Though its growth rate is the most conservative among towns with available historical data, this stable trajectory may appeal to risk-averse investors seeking steady, predictable appreciation.
2. Walthill
Historic home prices and percent change over time:
- 2025 Home Value: $66,253
- 2020 Home Value: N/A
- 2015 Home Value: N/A
- 2010 Home Value: N/A
- % Change from 2020 to 2025: N/A
- % Change from 2015 to 2025: N/A
- % Change from 2010 to 2025: N/A
About Walthill
Walthill is a newcomer to Zillow’s tracking data, with comprehensive values only available for 2025. Located in Thurston County in northeastern Nebraska, Walthill holds historical significance as part of the Omaha Nation Reservation, giving the town a unique cultural heritage and identity. At $66,253, Walthill ranks as our second most affordable town, providing extraordinary value for budget-conscious homebuyers. Though historical price data is limited, Walthill’s recent addition to tracking data suggests increasing market interest.
1. Nelson
Historic home prices and percent change over time:
- 2025 Home Value: $65,805
- 2020 Home Value: $47,739
- 2015 Home Value: N/A
- 2010 Home Value: N/A
- % Change from 2020 to 2025: 37.84%
- % Change from 2015 to 2025: N/A
- % Change from 2010 to 2025: N/A
About Nelson
As Nebraska’s most affordable town on our list, Nelson gives you an exceptional opportunity to own property at prices that seem from another era. With home values at just $65,805, you’ll find housing costs here are a fraction of the national average. Located in Nuckolls County in south-central Nebraska, Nelson combines extraordinary affordability with surprising price momentum, showing a healthy 37.84% increase since 2020. This combination of rock-bottom prices and solid appreciation creates a compelling value proposition for investors and first-time homebuyers alike. For those seeking the absolute best value in Nebraska real estate, Nelson’s position at the top of our affordability list makes it worthy of serious consideration.
