Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Platte Center, NE
Considering a move to Platte Center, NE? This friendly village of 355 offers a low cost of living, with median home prices around $138,000 and rents near $730. Residents benefit from short 18.5-minute commutes, very low crime rates, and a peaceful pace of life. With a strong sense of community, nearby healthcare access, and a sunny, four-season climate, Platte Center is an affordable, safe place to put down roots—especially for those seeking small-town charm.
Demographics - Platte Center, NE
Demographics - Platte Center, NE
Platte Center is a close-knit village with a population of 355 and a high density of about 1,150 residents per square mile, predominantly White, and a balanced gender ratio. The median age of 38.8 suggests a mature community, while only 2.5% speak a language other than English at home. This creates a friendly, familiar environment ideal for those seeking a quiet, small-town lifestyle.
Population:
355
Density:
1,150 per sq mi
Median Age:
38.8
Gender Ratio:
100 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
2.5%

Ethnic Composition
White:
97.2%
Black:
0.0%
Asian:
0.8%
Others:
2.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Platte Center, NE?
Living in Platte Center is notably affordable, with a median home value of $138,000 and average rents at $730. The cost of living index is 83.2, well below the national average, making housing, groceries, and utilities especially budget-friendly. Residents also benefit from moderate state income tax rates and reasonable monthly expenses.
Median House Value:
$138,000
Gross Rent:
$730
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,180
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,210
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$410
State Taxes:
Low:
2.46%
|
High:
6.84%
Cost Of Living Index:
83.2
Grocery:
92.1
Housing:
65.4
Utilities:
90.7
Transportation:
85.2
Health Care:
98.0
Miscellaneous:
83.4
Crime
Is Platte Center, NE a safe place to live?
Platte Center experiences low crime, with a violent crime rate of just 130 per 100,000 people and property crime at 1,050 per 100,000. The chances of being a victim are far lower than in larger cities, providing peace of mind for families and newcomers. This safe environment is a key draw for those considering relocation.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
130
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,050
Crime Index:
1,180
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 770
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 95
Weather
What is the weather like in Platte Center, NE year-round?
Platte Center enjoys distinct seasons, with warm summers reaching up to 87°F and cold winters dipping to 13°F. Residents experience about 62% sunny days annually and an average rainfall of nearly 30 inches, supporting a range of outdoor activities. The climate offers a pleasant mix for those who appreciate all four seasons.

Winter
Min:
13°F
Max:
34°F

Spring
Min:
37°F
Max:
65°F

Summer
Min:
62°F
Max:
87°F

Fall
Min:
36°F
Max:
66°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
29.7 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
62%
Neighbors
The local community boasts a median household income of $62,500 and a low poverty rate of 7.8%. Most residents have at least a high school diploma, and unemployment is just 2.7%, indicating economic stability. With typical commute times under 20 minutes, Platte Center offers a relaxed, neighborly atmosphere.
Median Income:
$38,200
Household Income:
$62,500
Family Income:
$67,100
Per Capita Income:
$26,900
Income Male:
$35,400
Income Female:
$28,400
Poverty Rate:
7.8%
Non English Speakers:
2.5%
Rent:
$730
Unemployment Rate:
2.7%
Public Transport Usage:
0.5%
Commute Time:
18.5 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
90.2%
Bachelors or More:
16.8%
Education
How are the schools in Platte Center, NE?
Local education is anchored by Platte Center Elementary School, offering small class sizes with a student-teacher ratio of 9.5. While there are no private schools in town, residents can access higher education at Central Community College in nearby Columbus, just 11 miles away. This combination supports strong foundational learning and convenient postsecondary options.

Public Schools
Name:
Platte Center Elementary School
Street:
155 Platte Ave
Phone:
402-564-8651
Students:
90
Student Teacher Ratio:
9.5

Colleges
Name:
Central Community College
City:
Columbus
State:
NE
Distance:
11 miles
Students:
6,300
Healthcare
Platte Center residents have convenient access to major healthcare services, including the Columbus Community Hospital located nearby. With 91.8% health insurance coverage and 1.2 physicians per 1,000 residents, the area ensures essential medical needs are met. The region’s healthcare index reflects reliable and accessible care for families and individuals.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Columbus Community Hospital
Address:
4600 38th St, Columbus, NE 68601
Phone:
(402) 564-7118
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.2
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.8%
Health Care Index:
68.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Platte Center, NE?
The housing market in Platte Center is highly accessible, featuring a median home price of $138,000 and strong owner-occupancy at 83.1%. Rental options are available with average two-bedroom rents at $730 and low vacancy and foreclosure rates. Modest home appreciation and new construction rates indicate a stable, welcoming market for buyers and renters alike.
Median Home Price:
$138,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$730
Owner Occupied Rate:
83.1%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.8%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.6%
New Construction Rate:
1.1%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.4%
DMV Information
Platte Center residents are served by the Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles, with comprehensive services available through the main office in Lincoln and online. The DMV provides all standard vehicle registration, licensing, and title services, ensuring residents can easily manage their transportation needs.
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.