Cost of Living in Omaha: A Complete Breakdown

Omaha, Nebraska, has a great reputation as an affordable place to settle down. According to Payscale, the cost of living in Omaha is 8% lower than the national average. That sounds great, but what does that actually mean for a family deciding whether to make the Big O their next home?
In this guide, we’ll break down all the costs associated with living in Omaha, so you can see why it’s the perfect fit for your family. More than that, we’ll show you why Omaha is the perfect spot to build your next home.
Housing Costs in Omaha
Let’s start with housing, the single biggest monthly expense for most families. In Omaha, the housing market remains one of the most budget-friendly in the Midwest. In 2025, the median home price in Omaha is around $304,000, which is significantly lower than the U.S. median of over $416,900, as reported by the Federal Reserve Bank of St Louis.
Renters also benefit from Omaha’s affordability. The median monthly rent is about $1,348, depending on the neighborhood. Families who want space to grow will find that Omaha’s suburban neighborhoods offer great value for their money, especially if you’re looking to build a new home from the ground up.
Utilities and Monthly Bills
On average, Omaha utilities are around 6-7% cheaper than the national average. With an energy-efficient new home, your costs could be even lower.
A bonus of living in the city of Omaha is that garbage collection is paid for by property taxes, so there are no additional fees to pay. You can expect to pay between $50 and $70 for internet.
Speaking of property taxes, you can expect to pay a little more in Omaha than in some parts of the country. According to Redfin, the effective tax rate in Nebraska is 1.63%. However, this is partially offset by the fact that the median home value is so much lower in Omaha than in other major US cities.
Transporation Costs
Omaha has an excellent bus system that covers the entire city. Tickets cost a very affordable $1.25. RentCafe estimates that transportation costs are 2% lower than the state average and 6% lower than the national average.
That said, most Omahans rely on their cars to get around. As of mid-2025, a gallon of gas costs $2.89, compared to the national average of $3.08, making it cheaper to go places. As the city continues to expand, having your own vehicle will make it easier to get where you need to go, but it will also add to your transportation costs.
Groceries and Eating Out
Food costs in Omaha are right in line with the city’s overall reputation for affordability. Groceries are slightly cheaper than the national average. Some sources estimate the average cost per person at around $480, but this will vary depending on personal preferences.
If you enjoy heading out to eat with the family once in a while, Omaha has a lot of great dining options that won’t break the bank. There are fast-food joints serving meals for under $10, through to upscale joints that will set you back around $50 per head.
Healthcare Expenses
Healthcare is a major consideration for all Omaha families, but thankfully, they pay less than many across the country. Payscale reports that healthcare is, on average, 7% less expensive in Omaha than in other cities across the country. You can expect to pay around $135 for a doctor’s visit and $19.41 for a prescription.
Families moving to Omaha will also find a robust network of high-quality hospitals and clinics, including the renowned Nebraska Medicine and CHI Health systems.
Childcare and Education Costs
Childcare costs vary based on the type of care and location, but average daycare rates in Omaha are around $900 to $1,100 per month per child. Private preschools and after-school programs can add to the total, but Omaha also offers a number of highly-rated public schools.
Higher education is also affordable. The University of Nebraska at Omaha offers in-state tuition of about $10,000 per year, making it a solid choice for families with college-bound students.
Why It All Adds Up to a Smart Move
When you tally up the numbers, Omaha offers families an unbeatable combination of affordability, space, and quality of life. Lower housing costs, manageable monthly bills, and a strong sense of community make it a great place to raise kids or settle down long-term.
Even better? You don’t have to settle for a home that only kind of fits your needs. With local builder Charleston Homes, you can build a semi-custom home tailored to your family’s lifestyle, all without blowing your budget.
Choose Charleston Homes – Omaha’s Trusted Builder
At Charleston Homes, we understand that relocating your family is a big deal. We’re here to do everything to make Omaha not just your latest home, but a place you’ll never want to leave.
With a wide range of tried-and-true floor plans to choose from, all customizable to your needs and preferences, we stand ready to deliver a quality of life you’ve only dreamed of. Request a quote and start the journey toward your new home today!