Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Merriman, NE
Considering a move to Merriman, NE? With a close-knit population of around 110, Merriman offers affordable living—median home prices are just $83,000, and average rents are $575. Residents enjoy a low cost of living index of 83 and low crime rates, with a typical commute of only 17 minutes. The community features a strong rate of homeownership, small class sizes at local schools, and plenty of sunny days, making it a peaceful choice for those seeking rural Nebraska charm.
Demographics - Merriman, NE
Demographics - Merriman, NE
Merriman is a small, close-knit community of about 110 residents, with a median age of 48.5, reflecting a mature population. The town is predominantly White, with a modest Native American presence and a near-even gender balance. Most residents speak English at home, creating a welcoming, rural atmosphere.
Population:
110
Density:
190 per sq mi
Median Age:
48.5
Gender Ratio:
105 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
3.5%

Ethnic Composition
White:
93.5%
Others:
2.5%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Merriman, NE?
Merriman offers an affordable lifestyle with a median home value of $83,000, rents averaging $575, and a cost of living index well below the national average at 83. Utilities and groceries remain budget-friendly, making it an ideal option for those seeking value in housing and everyday expenses. State taxes are mid-range, and housing costs in particular are notably low.
Median House Value:
$83,000
Gross Rent:
$575
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,050
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$850
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$355
State Taxes:
Low:
2.46%
|
High:
6.84%
Cost Of Living Index:
83.0
Grocery:
96.0
Housing:
55.0
Utilities:
97.0
Transportation:
79.0
Health Care:
94.0
Miscellaneous:
82.0
Crime
Is Merriman, NE a safe place to live?
The town experiences low crime rates, with violent crime well below the national average and property crime remaining infrequent. Residents enjoy a sense of safety, with the chance of being a victim of violent crime at just 1 in 540. This peaceful environment contributes to Merriman's appeal as a secure place to live.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
185
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,080
Crime Index:
1,265
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 540
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 93
Weather
What is the weather like in Merriman, NE year-round?
Merriman enjoys a classic four-season climate, with cold winters averaging lows of 12°F, warm summers peaking near 89°F, and comfortable spring and fall temperatures. The area receives around 19.5 inches of rainfall annually and boasts 62% sunny days, offering plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities throughout the year.

Winter
Min:
12°F
Max:
35°F

Spring
Min:
34°F
Max:
64°F

Summer
Min:
56°F
Max:
89°F

Fall
Min:
38°F
Max:
68°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
19.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
62%
Neighbors
The typical household income in Merriman is around $39,800, with a per capita income of $27,200 and a low unemployment rate of 3%. Most residents have at least a high school education, and commute times are short at just over 17 minutes. The community is marked by low poverty and high owner-occupancy, fostering a stable, neighborly environment.
Median Income:
$33,000
Household Income:
$39,800
Family Income:
$48,600
Per Capita Income:
$27,200
Income Male:
$36,000
Income Female:
$29,000
Poverty Rate:
14.8%
Non English Speakers:
3.5%
Rent:
$575
Unemployment Rate:
3.0%
Public Transport Usage:
0.0%
Commute Time:
17.4 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
91.6%
Bachelors or More:
18.5%
Education
How are the schools in Merriman, NE?
Education in Merriman is anchored by Cody-Kilgore Unified Schools, offering small class sizes and strong student-teacher engagement. While there are no private schools, higher education is accessible at Chadron State College, about 100 miles away. The local school system provides a supportive learning environment for families seeking personalized attention.

Public Schools
Name:
Cody-Kilgore Unified Schools
Street:
360 W 4th St, Cody, NE 69211
Phone:
402-823-4117
Students:
115
Student Teacher Ratio:
8.9

Colleges
Name:
Chadron State College
City:
Chadron
State:
NE
Distance:
100 miles
Students:
2,500
Healthcare
Healthcare access in Merriman is supported by nearby facilities such as Cherry County Hospital, a critical access hospital in Valentine. With 1.2 physicians per 1,000 residents and nearly 90% health insurance coverage, basic medical needs are met locally. The overall healthcare index suggests reliable but limited resources, typical for rural Nebraska communities.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Cherry County Hospital
Address:
510 N Green St, Valentine, NE 69201
Phone:
(402) 376-2525
Type:
Critical Access Hospital
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.2
Health Insurance Coverage:
89.5%
Health Care Index:
71.0
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Merriman, NE?
Merriman’s housing market is characterized by affordability and stability, with a median home price of $83,000 and most residents owning their homes. Rental options are limited but budget-friendly, with average rents at $575 and low vacancy rates. Home values have seen modest appreciation, making the area attractive for long-term residents seeking value.
Median Home Price:
$83,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$575
Owner Occupied Rate:
71.0%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.5%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.4%
New Construction Rate:
0.5%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.2%
DMV Information
Residents handle vehicle registration and licensing through the Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles, headquartered in Lincoln. The DMV offers online resources and statewide support, ensuring straightforward access for Merriman locals. For more information, residents can visit the official DMV website or contact the main office directly.
State:
Nebraska
Department:
Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
301 Centennial Mall South, Lincoln, NE 68509
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.