Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Hastings, NE
Thinking of moving to Hastings, NE? With a friendly population of just over 25,000, Hastings offers affordable living—median home prices are around $176,000 and average rents just $860 per month. Commute times are short at 13 minutes on average, and the city boasts a strong community feel with local colleges and quality schools. Residents enjoy four distinct seasons with 64% sunny days per year, and the city’s crime rates are moderate for its size. Whether you’re drawn by small-town charm, low cost of living, or educational opportunities, Hastings is a welcoming place to call home.
Demographics - Hastings, NE
Demographics - Hastings, NE
Hastings is home to about 25,000 residents, with a median age of 37.6 years and a population density of 1,650 people per square mile. The community is predominantly White at 88%, with a small but notable percentage of non-English speakers. Its balanced gender ratio and diverse backgrounds help create a close-knit, welcoming environment.
Population:
25,152
Density:
1,650 per sq mi
Median Age:
37.6
Gender Ratio:
97 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
8.2%
Ethnic Composition
White:
88.4%
Black:
1.5%
Asian:
1.1%
Others:
9.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Hastings, NE?
Living in Hastings is highly affordable, with a cost of living index of 83.2—well below the national average. Median home values hover around $176,000, and average rent is just $860, making it an attractive option for both homeowners and renters. Daily expenses like utilities and groceries are also budget-friendly, supporting a comfortable lifestyle.
Median House Value:
$176,000
Gross Rent:
$860
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,120
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,225
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$470
State Taxes:
Low:
2.46%
|
High:
6.84%
Cost Of Living Index:
83.2
Grocery:
92.4
Housing:
65.2
Utilities:
98.7
Transportation:
82.1
Health Care:
92.5
Miscellaneous:
85.0
Crime
Is Hastings, NE a safe place to live?
Hastings experiences moderate crime levels for a city its size, with a violent crime rate of 265 per 100,000 residents and a property crime rate of 2,250 per 100,000. The chance of being a victim of violent crime is about 1 in 377, while property crime occurs at a rate of 1 in 44. Overall, the city maintains a safe atmosphere, especially for families and newcomers.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
265
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,250
Crime Index:
2,515
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 377
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 44
Weather
What is the weather like in Hastings, NE year-round?
Hastings enjoys four distinct seasons, with warm summers reaching up to 89°F and cold winters dipping to 15°F. The city receives about 28 inches of annual rainfall and boasts 64% sunny days, providing plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities year-round. Spring and fall are mild and pleasant, making the climate comfortable for most residents.
Winter
Min:
15°F
Max:
36°F
Spring
Min:
37°F
Max:
68°F
Summer
Min:
61°F
Max:
89°F
Fall
Min:
39°F
Max:
69°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
28.4 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
64%
Neighbors
Residents of Hastings benefit from a strong sense of community, with a median household income of $57,900 and a low unemployment rate of 2.8%. Most adults have at least a high school diploma, and commute times average just 13 minutes. The area maintains a modest poverty rate and offers affordable rents, contributing to a stable local economy.
Median Income:
$32,600
Household Income:
$57,900
Family Income:
$70,200
Per Capita Income:
$29,700
Income Male:
$39,800
Income Female:
$33,400
Poverty Rate:
12.4%
Non English Speakers:
8.2%
Rent:
$860
Unemployment Rate:
2.8%
Public Transport Usage:
0.5%
Commute Time:
13.2 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
92.1%
Bachelors or More:
24.8%
Education
How are the schools in Hastings, NE?
Hastings features a range of educational opportunities, including highly regarded public schools like Hastings Senior High and access to local colleges such as Hastings College and Central Community College. With over 92% of adults holding at least a high school diploma and nearly 25% holding a bachelor's degree or higher, the city values education. Both public and private school options are available to support families and students at every level.
Public Schools
Name:
Hastings Senior High School
Street:
1100 W 14th St
Phone:
402-461-7550
Students:
1,000
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.2
Name:
Hawthorne Elementary School
Street:
705 N California Ave
Phone:
402-461-7580
Students:
350
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.6
Private Schools
Name:
Adams Central Junior/Senior High
Street:
1090 S Adams Central Ave
Phone:
402-463-3285
Students:
600
Colleges
Name:
Hastings College
City:
Hastings
State:
NE
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
950
Name:
Central Community College - Hastings Campus
City:
Hastings
State:
NE
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
3,000
Healthcare
Hastings offers quality healthcare services anchored by Mary Lanning Healthcare, a major hospital providing emergency and surgical care. With 2.1 physicians per 1,000 residents and nearly 94% of people insured, medical access is reliable and comprehensive. The city’s healthcare index of 78.4 reflects good coverage and service for its size.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Mary Lanning Healthcare
Address:
715 N St Joseph Ave, Hastings, NE 68901
Phone:
(402) 463-4521
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
93.8%
Health Care Index:
78.4
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Hastings, NE?
The Hastings housing market is affordable and stable, with a median home price of $176,000 and an average two-bedroom rent of $860. Homeownership is common, with 61.5% of residents owning their homes, and the area sees low foreclosure and vacancy rates. Modest annual appreciation and limited new construction signal a steady market.
Median Home Price:
$176,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$860
Owner Occupied Rate:
61.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.7%
New Construction Rate:
1.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Hastings residents can access vehicle services through the Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles, headquartered in Lincoln. The DMV provides essential licensing and registration services, with resources available both online and by phone. This ensures convenient support for drivers and new residents alike.
State:
Nebraska
Department:
Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
301 Centennial Mall S, Lincoln, NE 68508
Phone:
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.