Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Norfolk, NE
Considering a move to Norfolk, NE? With a friendly population of about 25,600 and affordable median home prices around $185,000, Norfolk offers a low cost of living and short average commute times of 13 minutes. The city enjoys a good safety profile, with violent crime well below national averages, and a sunny, four-season climate. Norfolk features solid public schools, access to higher education at Northeast Community College, and a strong sense of community—making it a great fit for families and professionals alike.
Demographics - Norfolk, NE
Demographics - Norfolk, NE
Norfolk, NE is home to about 25,600 residents, with a balanced gender ratio and a median age of 36.2 years. The city features a predominantly White population but is welcoming to diversity, and nearly 9% of residents speak a language other than English at home. Its moderate population density provides a comfortable community atmosphere.
Population:
25,606
Density:
1,800 per sq mi
Median Age:
36.2
Gender Ratio:
98 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
8.7%

Ethnic Composition
White:
86.3%
Black:
2.0%
Asian:
1.0%
Others:
10.7%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Norfolk, NE?
Norfolk offers an affordable lifestyle, with a median home value of $185,000 and average rent around $895, both below national averages. The overall cost of living index is 88.5, making day-to-day expenses, groceries, and utilities especially budget-friendly. Low state taxes and modest housing costs make Norfolk attractive for families and newcomers seeking value.
Median House Value:
$185,000
Gross Rent:
$895
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,230
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,255
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$480
State Taxes:
Low:
2.46%
|
High:
6.84%
Cost Of Living Index:
88.5
Grocery:
92.1
Housing:
74.8
Utilities:
93.6
Transportation:
86.2
Health Care:
96.7
Miscellaneous:
94.3
Crime
Is Norfolk, NE a safe place to live?
Norfolk has a relatively low crime rate, with violent crime well below national averages and a 1 in 442 chance of being a victim. Property crime is more common but still manageable, at a rate of 1,875 incidents per 100,000 people. Overall, residents can feel safe in this friendly Midwestern city.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
226
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,875
Crime Index:
2,101
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 442
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 53
Weather
What is the weather like in Norfolk, NE year-round?
Residents enjoy four distinct seasons, with warm summers reaching up to 87°F and cold winters dropping to 13°F. Norfolk sees about 64% sunny days each year and receives nearly 28 inches of rainfall annually, offering a pleasant climate for outdoor enthusiasts. The seasonal changes provide a classic Midwest weather experience.

Winter
Min:
13°F
Max:
34°F

Spring
Min:
36°F
Max:
65°F

Summer
Min:
61°F
Max:
87°F

Fall
Min:
38°F
Max:
67°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
27.9 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
64%
Neighbors
Households in Norfolk have a median income of $59,662, with a low unemployment rate of 2.7% and a short average commute of just 13 minutes. About 92% of adults have completed high school and nearly a quarter hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The community is close-knit and family-oriented, with a modest poverty rate of 11.2%.
Median Income:
$37,400
Household Income:
$59,662
Family Income:
$76,900
Per Capita Income:
$29,780
Income Male:
$42,500
Income Female:
$34,300
Poverty Rate:
11.2%
Non English Speakers:
8.7%
Rent:
$895
Unemployment Rate:
2.7%
Public Transport Usage:
0.3%
Commute Time:
13.2 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
91.7%
Bachelors or More:
24.1%
Education
How are the schools in Norfolk, NE?
Norfolk offers strong educational opportunities, featuring well-rated public schools like Norfolk Senior High and access to higher education at Northeast Community College. Private school options are available, and nearby colleges provide expanded choices for students. Families will find quality learning environments and a community invested in education.

Public Schools
Name:
Norfolk Senior High School
Street:
801 Riverside Blvd
Phone:
402-644-2529
Students:
1,350
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.9
Name:
Westside Elementary School
Street:
500 W Prospect Ave
Phone:
402-644-2546
Students:
430
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.8

Private Schools
Name:
Lutheran High Northeast
Street:
2010 N 37th St
Phone:
402-379-3040
Students:
110

Colleges
Name:
Northeast Community College
City:
Norfolk
State:
NE
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
5,000
Name:
Wayne State College
City:
Wayne
State:
NE
Distance:
27 miles
Students:
3,600
Healthcare
Residents have access to top-notch healthcare, including Faith Regional Health Services and a VA clinic for veterans. With about 2 physicians per 1,000 people and over 90% health insurance coverage, medical needs are well supported. Norfolk’s healthcare system ensures quality care for families and individuals alike.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Faith Regional Health Services
Address:
2700 W Norfolk Ave, Norfolk, NE 68701
Phone:
(402) 371-4880
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Norfolk VA Clinic
Address:
710 S 13th St, Norfolk, NE 68701
Phone:
(402) 370-4570
Type:
Veterans Affairs
Emergency Services:
No
Physicians Per 1000:
2.0
Health Insurance Coverage:
90.4%
Health Care Index:
69.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Norfolk, NE?
Norfolk’s housing market is affordable, with a median home price of $185,000 and average two-bedroom rent around $900. About 59% of homes are owner-occupied, and the area experiences a steady but modest home appreciation rate of 2.4%. Rental vacancies are low, making it a stable market for buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$185,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$900
Owner Occupied Rate:
58.7%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
2.4%
New Construction Rate:
0.7%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.4%
DMV Information
Norfolk residents are served by the Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles, which offers comprehensive licensing and registration services. The main office is located in Lincoln, but resources and information are easily accessible online. Navigating vehicle and licensing needs is straightforward for newcomers.
State:
Nebraska
Department:
Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
301 Centennial Mall S, 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.