Moving to Omaha? Discover the average cost of living before you rent

From housing and groceries to utilities and healthcare, every city has its own cost profile, and most renters want to know what day-to-day life will really cost. After all, being aware of what the cost of living in a city really is can make a huge difference when budgeting for your move and planning for the months ahead.

The Big O has gained attention in recent years for its balanced lifestyle: big enough to have everything you need, yet affordable enough to keep things comfortable. Whether you’re relocating for work, school, or a change of pace, understanding the average cost of living in Omaha compared to the cost of living in Nebraska or the U.S. average helps you plan smarter.

What is the average cost of living in Omaha, NE?

For renters, affordability is often the deciding factor when choosing where to live. Omaha consistently earns high marks for offering a lower-than-average cost of living while still providing plenty of opportunities, entertainment, and amenities.

The average cost of living in Omaha, NE, sits below both the state and national averages, making it one of the more budget-friendly urban areas in the Midwest. Moreover, the median household income in Omaha, NE, is $72,708, which provides a comfortable balance between earnings and expenses.

Utilities in Omaha are also about 16% less pricey, helping renters save money each month. Everyday costs like groceries and clothing are also favorable — groceries are around 1% more affordable, while clothing costs are roughly 2% lower compared to the national average.

Healthcare costs are another factor worth noting. In Omaha, healthcare services such as doctor check-ups and dentistry cost about 6% less than the national average. This can make a real difference for renters who rely on regular care or have families to provide for. Even non-essential expenses, such as entertainment or grooming services, are about 2% more affordable in Omaha, NE, allowing renters to enjoy life without overspending.

Breaking down the cost of living in Omaha

When trying to compare cost of living across different states, Omaha stands out for its affordability and balance. The average cost of living in Omaha, NE, is consistently below both the state and national average. Renters who have lived in higher-cost states often find their money goes further in Omaha, whether it’s for groceries, healthcare, or recreation.

Here’s a more detailed look at the average expenses that renters should expect in Omaha. These numbers give you a solid idea of what everyday life will cost in the city.

Housing (Buy & Rent):

• Average monthly rent: $1,305
• Average home price: $385,889
• Mortgage rate: 7.10%

Utilities:

• Energy bill (monthly average): $148.96
• Phone bill (monthly average): $203.73

Food:

• Milk (1 gallon): $4.87
• Eggs (1 dozen): $3.22
• Bread (loaf): $3.88
• Potatoes (5 lbs): $4.13
• Cheese (1 lb): $4.75
• Ground beef (1 lb): $6.95

Healthcare:

• Doctor’s visit: $151.64
• Dentist visit: $90.62
• Optometrist visit: $117.00

Transportation:

• Gas (per gallon): $3.08
• Tire-balancing: $61.50

Goods & Services:

• Men’s shirt: $35.09
• Women’s slacks: $29.71
• Boy’s jeans: $25.23
• Haircut: $25.78
• Beauty salon: $33.92
• Dry cleaning: $16.76
• Movie ticket: $12.37

Is Omaha, NE, a good choice for renters?

If you’re exploring new places to live and want to balance affordability with a high standard of living, Omaha is worth a close look. The cost of living in Omaha, NE, is lower than both the Nebraska and U.S. average, which means renters can enjoy quality housing, affordable utilities, and manageable everyday expenses.

When you compare the cost of living across cities, Omaha consistently provides value without compromise. Its strong job market, diverse culture, and welcoming community make it a great option for renters looking to make a move.

If you’re interested in the cost of living in other cities, check out our guides for Harrisburg, PA; Lubbock, TX; Colorado Springs, CO; and Buffalo, NY.