Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Grand Island, NE
Considering a move to Grand Island, NE? Home to about 53,000 residents, Grand Island offers affordable living with median home prices around $202,000 and average rents near $930. Commutes are quick—about 15 minutes on average—and the city boasts a strong healthcare presence and excellent access to education. While property crime rates are higher than average, the cost of living index is well below the national average, and you'll enjoy plenty of sunshine and friendly Midwestern charm.
Demographics - Grand Island, NE
Demographics - Grand Island, NE
Grand Island, Nebraska, is home to just over 53,000 residents with a median age of 35, offering a balanced mix of families and young professionals. The population is diverse, with nearly 40% identifying as non-white and about 18% speaking a language other than English at home. This vibrant community reflects a blend of cultures and youthful energy.
Population:
53,131
Density:
2,300 per sq mi
Median Age:
35.2
Gender Ratio:
98 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
18.4%
Ethnic Composition
White:
58.2%
Black:
2.6%
Asian:
1.2%
Others:
38.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Grand Island, NE?
Grand Island offers a cost of living index of 86.4, making it notably more affordable than the U.S. average. Median home values are around $202,000, and typical rents hover near $930, with state income taxes ranging from 2.46% to 6.84%. Residents benefit from lower housing and utility costs, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious movers.
Median House Value:
$202,000
Gross Rent:
$930
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,250
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,340
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$460
State Taxes:
Low:
2.46%
|
High:
6.84%
Cost Of Living Index:
86.4
Grocery:
93.1
Housing:
75.8
Utilities:
96.4
Transportation:
93.9
Health Care:
94.2
Miscellaneous:
89.5
Crime
Is Grand Island, NE a safe place to live?
While Grand Island maintains a relatively low violent crime rate of 329 per 100,000, property crime is more prevalent, with a 1 in 33 chance of being affected. The city’s overall crime index indicates that while most residents feel safe, newcomers should be mindful of property security. Community efforts continue to improve neighborhood safety and awareness.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
329
Property Crimes Per 100k:
3,050
Crime Index:
3,379
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 304
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 33
Weather
What is the weather like in Grand Island, NE year-round?
Grand Island experiences four distinct seasons, with hot summers reaching highs near 88°F and cold winters dipping to around 15°F. The area enjoys about 64% sunny days annually and receives almost 28 inches of rainfall. Residents appreciate the balance of sunshine and seasonal changes, perfect for outdoor activities year-round.
Winter
Min:
15°F
Max:
36°F
Spring
Min:
38°F
Max:
66°F
Summer
Min:
62°F
Max:
88°F
Fall
Min:
39°F
Max:
69°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
27.8 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
64%
Neighbors
Median household income in Grand Island is about $59,400, with a poverty rate of 14.8%. Most residents commute less than 16 minutes to work, and unemployment is low at 3.1%. The community is known for its friendly atmosphere and strong work ethic, with 81.6% holding at least a high school diploma.
Median Income:
$32,600
Household Income:
$59,400
Family Income:
$71,800
Per Capita Income:
$27,800
Income Male:
$41,500
Income Female:
$32,800
Poverty Rate:
14.8%
Non English Speakers:
18.4%
Rent:
$930
Unemployment Rate:
3.1%
Public Transport Usage:
0.7%
Commute Time:
15.5 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
81.6%
Bachelors or More:
19.6%
Education
How are the schools in Grand Island, NE?
Grand Island provides a range of educational opportunities, including public schools like Grand Island Senior High and Westridge Middle School, as well as private options such as Central Catholic High School. The city is also home to Central Community College, serving about 6,000 students locally. Families benefit from diverse schooling options and accessible higher education resources.
Public Schools
Name:
Grand Island Senior High School
Street:
2124 N Lafayette Ave
Phone:
308-385-5950
Students:
2,200
Student Teacher Ratio:
16.5
Name:
Westridge Middle School
Street:
4111 W 13th St
Phone:
308-385-5886
Students:
850
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.3
Private Schools
Name:
Central Catholic High School
Street:
1200 Ruby Ave
Phone:
308-384-2440
Students:
380
Colleges
Name:
Central Community College – Grand Island
City:
Grand Island
State:
NE
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
6,000
Healthcare
Grand Island offers robust healthcare with two major hospitals providing comprehensive emergency and surgical services. With 2.1 physicians per 1,000 residents and over 91% health insurance coverage, locals have reliable access to medical care. The city’s healthcare index reflects a solid standard of health services for families and individuals.
Major Hospitals
Name:
CHI Health St. Francis
Address:
2620 W Faidley Ave, Grand Island, NE 68803
Phone:
(308) 384-4600
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Grand Island Regional Medical Center
Address:
3533 Prairieview St, Grand Island, NE 68801
Phone:
(308) 675-5000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.4%
Health Care Index:
79.8
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Grand Island, NE?
The housing market in Grand Island is stable and affordable, with a median home price of $202,000 and average two-bedroom rents at $930. About 57% of residents own their homes, and the area has seen a 7.2% appreciation in home values over the past year. Low vacancy and foreclosure rates indicate a healthy, competitive real estate environment.
Median Home Price:
$202,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$930
Owner Occupied Rate:
56.6%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
4.9%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
7.2%
New Construction Rate:
1.1%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.6%
DMV Information
Grand Island residents handle their motor vehicle needs through the Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles located conveniently in the city. The local DMV offers standard licensing, registration, and title services, supported by an informative state website and friendly in-person assistance. This ensures a straightforward process for new arrivals and long-time residents alike.
State:
Nebraska
Department:
Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
500 W. 4th St, Grand Island, NE 68801
Phone:
1-402-471-3985
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.