Thinking about spending your retirement years in Nebraska? For many, the Cornhusker State offers a peaceful pace of life and affordable living. But some towns fall short when it comes to comfort and connection for retirees. The 2025 Core Logic index reveals some surprising data about where older adults may face more challenges in Nebraska—from poor transit access to a lack of cultural amenities or walkable infrastructure.
This list ranks the 18 least retirement-friendly towns in Nebraska, based on their Overall Retirement Score (ORS). The ORS evaluates several key metrics, including quietness, walkability, vibrancy, transit options, and more. The lower the score, the tougher it is to enjoy a fulfilling life in that town. Whether you’re already living in Nebraska or considering a move, this guide can help you avoid places that may not offer the golden years you’re hoping for.
18. Kearney – Lacking Transit and Cultural Variety
Kearney, located in central Nebraska, is home to the University of Nebraska at Kearney and offers a modest urban vibe with mid-sized town charm. It’s a strong choice for education and history lovers, especially with attractions like the Museum of Nebraska Art. But despite these advantages, it’s not an ideal retirement spot.
The town scores poorly in quietness and public transportation. Cultural offerings are modest for a college town, and walkability is underwhelming. While it might suit younger families or students, retirees may find themselves isolated or reliant on driving.
Kearney – ORS 51.50
- Overall Retirement Score: 51.50
- Quietness: 39.16
- Walkability: 48.09
- Cultural amenities: 44.69
- Vibrancy: 62.60
- Car-Friendliness: 85.31
- Transit-Friendliness: 5.24
While Kearney has decent car access and is a fairly lively pace, its lack of transit options and limited cultural offerings make it a less comfortable choice for retirees seeking a more accessible and enriching daily life.
17. Columbus – Limited Transit and Walkability
Columbus sits along the Loup River and has a strong agricultural and industrial backbone. It’s a working-class town with a stable local economy, but it hasn’t developed many of the amenities that retirees often prioritize.
Public transportation is nearly nonexistent, and walkability is limited—meaning older adults may struggle with mobility or depend heavily on cars. Though the town offers some cultural touchpoints, they fall short for those looking to stay mentally and socially engaged in retirement.
Columbus – ORS 51.14
- Overall Retirement Score: 51.14
- Quietness: 57.12
- Walkability: 44.71
- Cultural amenities: 45.86
- Vibrancy: 52.08
- Car-Friendliness: 80.18
- Transit-Friendliness: 4.07
Despite a decent score in quietness, Columbus doesn’t provide enough in the way of walkable amenities or public transport, which can hinder quality of life for seniors who prefer staying independent.
16. Minatare – Quiet But Isolated
Minatare, a tiny town near Scottsbluff in western Nebraska, is surrounded by farmland and natural beauty. It’s extremely quiet, which may appeal to some retirees—but it also means very few social, cultural, or medical resources.
Walkability is especially poor, and transit options are nonexistent. While the peaceful atmosphere might be welcome, the lack of basic conveniences and extremely low vibrancy could make retirement here feel more like isolation than relaxation.
Minatare – ORS 50.56
- Overall Retirement Score: 50.56
- Quietness: 86.50
- Walkability: 17.81
- Cultural amenities: 43.02
- Vibrancy: 11.09
- Car-Friendliness: 90.35
- Transit-Friendliness: N/A
Minatare may offer peace and quiet, but its lack of walkable infrastructure, social energy, and public transit make it an impractical retirement destination for many.
15. La Vista – Noisy and Car-Dependent
La Vista is a growing suburb just southwest of Omaha. It’s known for its retail developments and convenient highway access. But the suburban sprawl works against retirees who might prefer a quieter, more walkable lifestyle.
Low quietness scores and limited transit access make it less suitable for seniors without cars. While cultural and vibrancy scores are higher than average, the need to drive everywhere adds a layer of inconvenience and cost for older adults.
La Vista – ORS 48.54
- Overall Retirement Score: 48.54
- Quietness: 31.45
- Walkability: 67.32
- Cultural amenities: 62.40
- Vibrancy: 68.10
- Car-Friendliness: 80.62
- Transit-Friendliness: 7.30
La Vista may be better suited for working professionals and younger families. For retirees, the lack of calm and transit support offsets its entertainment perks.
14. Bellevue – Busy Suburb with Limited Transit
Located just south of Omaha and near Offutt Air Force Base, Bellevue offers proximity to big-city services, but struggles to provide senior-friendly infrastructure. Noise and traffic are common complaints, and public transit is minimal.
Although the area has some cultural opportunities, the limited walkability and high dependence on cars mean it can be physically demanding for aging residents. It’s a place where retirement may feel like an extension of suburban work life.
Bellevue – ORS 46.21
- Overall Retirement Score: 46.21
- Quietness: 36.37
- Walkability: 52.20
- Cultural amenities: 54.94
- Vibrancy: 58.08
- Car-Friendliness: 79.82
- Transit-Friendliness: 1.81
Bellevue’s car-centric layout and low transit scores make it a less-than-ideal choice for retirees seeking convenience and community connections.
13. Grand Island – Lacking Cultural Depth for Retirees
Grand Island is one of Nebraska’s larger cities, located centrally and known for its agricultural fairs and heritage. While it offers some urban advantages, the town falls short on cultural amenities and public transit.
The quietness score is middling, and although it’s relatively easy to get around by car, those who don’t drive may feel stuck. Despite having pockets of vibrancy, the limited cultural infrastructure can leave retirees searching for more fulfilling ways to spend their time.
Grand Island – ORS 44.34
- Overall Retirement Score: 44.34
- Quietness: 48.09
- Walkability: 52.94
- Cultural amenities: 38.78
- Vibrancy: 59.59
- Car-Friendliness: 85.47
- Transit-Friendliness: 10.31
Retirees seeking rich cultural engagement and freedom from driving won’t find Grand Island particularly accommodating, making it a harder place to age comfortably.
12. Lincoln – Not as Retiree-Friendly as You’d Think
As the state capital and home to the University of Nebraska, Lincoln might seem like a great pick on paper. It boasts a thriving student population, decent arts scene, and a range of amenities. But the day-to-day realities tell a different story for retirees.
The city’s low quietness score can be a red flag for those seeking peace. Walkability is moderate, but public transportation—while better than in many towns—is still lacking for a capital city. Noise, traffic, and student-centric services may overwhelm seniors looking for a slower pace.
Lincoln – ORS 43.09
- Overall Retirement Score: 43.09
- Quietness: 33.50
- Walkability: 58.59
- Cultural amenities: 52.07
- Vibrancy: 67.52
- Car-Friendliness: 76.20
- Transit-Friendliness: 26.90
Lincoln is full of energy, which can be great for those who enjoy an active atmosphere—but for older adults looking to settle into a quieter, more relaxed lifestyle, it might feel a bit overwhelming.
11. Fremont – Limited Amenities, Heavy on Car Use
Northwest of Omaha, Fremont is a smaller city with a blue-collar feel and modest economic activity. While it offers a quiet pace, it lacks the infrastructure that makes retirement enjoyable and accessible.
Cultural and transit scores are among the lowest in the list. Even though it’s easy to drive, that won’t help seniors who prefer or need alternative transportation. Walkability is just adequate, and without standout healthcare or recreational options, the town underwhelms as a place to settle down in your later years.
Fremont – ORS 42.22
- Overall Retirement Score: 42.22
- Quietness: 44.00
- Walkability: 58.75
- Cultural amenities: 38.39
- Vibrancy: 55.76
- Car-Friendliness: 85.92
- Transit-Friendliness: N/A
Fremont is great for those who are mobile and independent, but it doesn’t offer much in the way of support or inspiration for retirees.
10. North Platte – Scenic but Underserved
North Platte has historical charm—it was once a key railroad town and is the hometown of Buffalo Bill. But for all its nostalgic appeal, it falls short when it comes to serving modern retirees.
It’s quiet, yes, but the town lacks liveliness and cultural options. With low walkability and barely any transit, it requires heavy reliance on a vehicle. For retirees hoping for a mix of activity and peace, North Platte just doesn’t deliver.
North Platte – ORS 41.85
- Overall Retirement Score: 41.85
- Quietness: 48.35
- Walkability: 55.20
- Cultural amenities: 27.66
- Vibrancy: 54.42
- Car-Friendliness: 90.66
- Transit-Friendliness: 5.98
While the historic feel might appeal to some, the lack of infrastructure and cultural amenities makes this town more suitable for short visits than permanent stays.
9. Hastings – Inconsistent Appeal
Hastings, in south-central Nebraska, is another mid-sized town that appears promising but ultimately disappoints in several retirement-relevant metrics. Despite its moderately upbeat pace, it still struggles with limited transit access and subpar cultural amenities.
The walkability is decent but not exceptional. Cultural engagement opportunities are lacking, and the quietness score suggests that daily life may be more disruptive than restful.
Hastings – ORS 37.97
- Overall Retirement Score: 37.97
- Quietness: 47.15
- Walkability: 56.03
- Cultural amenities: 36.00
- Vibrancy: 56.86
- Car-Friendliness: 83.64
- Transit-Friendliness: 2.70
Hastings has some redeeming qualities, but retirees seeking convenience and stimulation may find themselves let down in the long run.
8. Omaha – Bustling but Overwhelming
Nebraska’s largest city has the buzz of urban life, a decent arts scene, and great restaurants. But for retirees, Omaha’s big-city feel often becomes more of a burden than a bonus.
The low quietness score is a problem, and while walkability and transit options are stronger here than in most Nebraska towns, the city still prioritizes car travel. Traffic, noise, and a younger demographic can leave retirees feeling out of place.
Omaha – ORS 35.85
- Overall Retirement Score: 35.85
- Quietness: 32.45
- Walkability: 66.99
- Cultural amenities: 57.88
- Vibrancy: 69.50
- Car-Friendliness: 75.61
- Transit-Friendliness: 23.88
Omaha has an energetic, fast-moving feel—but for those in their retirement years, it may feel more exhausting than exciting.
7. Crete – Small-Town Life with Few Perks
Crete is a small college town, home to Doane University, located southwest of Lincoln. Despite its quaint atmosphere and academic presence, it lacks the infrastructure and amenities that retirees usually value.
Transit is weak, cultural offerings are minimal, and the town feels flat day to day. It may appeal to younger people or families seeking affordability, but it leaves older adults with few options for engagement or mobility.
Crete – ORS 34.56
- Overall Retirement Score: 34.56
- Quietness: 51.37
- Walkability: 40.30
- Cultural amenities: 35.26
- Vibrancy: 29.08
- Car-Friendliness: 84.96
- Transit-Friendliness: 7.63
Crete offers small-town simplicity, but not enough stimulation or support for retirees wanting more from their golden years.
6. Schuyler – Quiet but Lacking Almost Everything Else
Schuyler is nestled along the Platte River and has a high proportion of working-class and immigrant families. For retirees, however, it comes up short in nearly every category that matters.
Walkability, cultural access, and vibrancy all score poorly. There’s virtually no public transit. It’s a peaceful place, but one where seniors may feel cut off from the social and practical infrastructure they need.
Schuyler – ORS 29.27
- Overall Retirement Score: 29.27
- Quietness: 69.93
- Walkability: 35.34
- Cultural amenities: 32.17
- Vibrancy: 25.10
- Car-Friendliness: 85.19
- Transit-Friendliness: N/A
Despite its quiet charm, Schuyler doesn’t offer enough in the way of retiree-friendly services or activities.
5. Lexington – Limited Services and Cultural Life
Lexington is located in south-central Nebraska and has a significant meatpacking industry. It’s affordable, but the trade-offs for retirees are steep.
The town has low scores for cultural offerings and vibrancy. While it’s relatively easy to get around by car, those without access to one are at a disadvantage. The quietness score is also lower than expected for a rural town.
Lexington – ORS 26.40
- Overall Retirement Score: 26.40
- Quietness: 41.80
- Walkability: 47.11
- Cultural amenities: 25.26
- Vibrancy: 48.32
- Car-Friendliness: 75.67
- Transit-Friendliness: 12.49
Lexington’s practical limitations and lack of engaging community life make it a tough place for retirees to thrive.
4. Dakota City – Car-Centric and Sparse
Located in northeastern Nebraska, Dakota City is small, industrial, and very car-dependent. With nearly no public transportation and limited local amenities, the town doesn’t cater to aging residents.
It earns high marks for car-friendliness, but that’s about where the advantages end. Walkability and cultural life are low, and the town lacks a senior-friendly atmosphere overall.
Dakota City – ORS 21.48
- Overall Retirement Score: 21.48
- Quietness: 56.32
- Walkability: 28.11
- Cultural amenities: 29.30
- Vibrancy: 41.59
- Car-Friendliness: 97.88
- Transit-Friendliness: N/A
Dakota City might be functional for younger drivers, but it offers few comforts or conveniences for retirees.
3. South Sioux City – Active But Not for Seniors
South Sioux City has seen revitalization in recent years, but the energy here skews younger and more fast-paced than retirees may want. It has surprisingly strong walkability and transit access—but it’s loud and culturally sparse.
For seniors seeking a relaxed, enriching place to retire, the low quietness and cultural scores could be significant drawbacks. It’s buzzing, but not in a way that suits aging residents.
South Sioux City – ORS 18.21
- Overall Retirement Score: 18.21
- Quietness: 25.65
- Walkability: 69.81
- Cultural amenities: 24.83
- Vibrancy: 59.38
- Car-Friendliness: 73.99
- Transit-Friendliness: 29.94
South Sioux City offers movement and accessibility, but not the peace or engagement most retirees need.
2. Boys Town – Limited Living Options
Boys Town is more of an institutional campus than a traditional town. Known nationally for its work with at-risk youth, it’s not structured to support a civilian residential community—let alone one of older adults.
Services are minimal, housing is limited, and it simply wasn’t built to accommodate aging residents. Its poor vibrancy and car-friendliness scores underscore just how ill-fitting it is for retirement.
Boys Town – ORS 8.35
- Overall Retirement Score: 8.35
- Quietness: 51.50
- Walkability: 39.56
- Cultural amenities: 36.72
- Vibrancy: 8.80
- Car-Friendliness: 43.74
- Transit-Friendliness: N/A
Boys Town is a meaningful institution—but not a viable retirement destination.
1. Offutt Air Force Base – Not a Civilian Retirement Town
At the very bottom of the list is Offutt Air Force Base. As a functioning military installation, it’s not designed for civilian living, especially not for retirees.
It lacks community infrastructure, has minimal cultural access, and offers almost no services tailored to aging individuals. It’s noisy, transient, and wholly unsuitable for long-term retirement living.
Offutt Air Force Base – ORS 6.33
- Overall Retirement Score: 6.33
- Quietness: 13.07
- Walkability: 54.17
- Cultural amenities: 19.26
- Vibrancy: 42.91
- Car-Friendliness: 81.38
- Transit-Friendliness: N/A
Offutt is an active military base, not a place designed for civilian life—let alone retirement. It simply doesn’t offer the environment or amenities that make for a comfortable place to grow older.
