Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Sidney, NE
Considering a move to Sidney, NE? This friendly city of just over 6,100 offers affordable living, with median home prices around $158,000 and average rents at $850. Residents enjoy quick commutes averaging 13 minutes, plentiful sunshine (63% sunny days annually), and a close-knit community atmosphere. Crime rates are slightly above national averages, but the city boasts strong public schools and access to local healthcare. Sidney’s affordable housing and relaxed pace make it a great fit for those seeking small-town Nebraska life.
Demographics - Sidney, NE
Demographics - Sidney, NE
Sidney, Nebraska is a small city of just over 6,100 residents, with a median age of 39 and a nearly even gender balance. The community is predominantly White, with about 7% of residents speaking a language other than English at home, reflecting a modest level of diversity. Its population density and friendly atmosphere offer a blend of small-town charm and community connection.
Population:
6,103
Density:
1,200 per sq mi
Median Age:
39.1
Gender Ratio:
98 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
7.2%
Ethnic Composition
White:
89.2%
Black:
0.4%
Asian:
0.9%
Others:
9.5%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Sidney, NE?
Sidney offers an affordable cost of living, with a median home value of $158,000 and average rent at $850. Costs for essentials like groceries, utilities, and healthcare are below national averages, making the city attractive for budget-conscious residents. Nebraska’s moderate state taxes and low housing costs contribute to overall economic ease.
Median House Value:
$158,000
Gross Rent:
$850
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,150
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,120
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$390
State Taxes:
Low:
2.46%
|
High:
6.84%
Cost Of Living Index:
82.1
Grocery:
94.0
Housing:
56.2
Utilities:
90.8
Transportation:
93.7
Health Care:
95.4
Miscellaneous:
88.6
Crime
Is Sidney, NE a safe place to live?
Crime rates in Sidney are slightly above national averages, with a chance of 1 in 406 for violent crime and 1 in 47 for property crime. While these rates warrant awareness, the city remains a generally safe choice for families and individuals seeking small-town living. Community vigilance and local law enforcement help maintain safety.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
246
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,145
Crime Index:
2,391
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 406
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 47
Weather
What is the weather like in Sidney, NE year-round?
Sidney experiences classic Nebraska weather, with cold winters dipping to 13°F and warm summers reaching up to 89°F. The city enjoys 63% sunny days annually and receives about 19 inches of rainfall each year, offering a pleasant balance of seasons. Residents can expect mild springs and crisp autumns.
Winter
Min:
13°F
Max:
39°F
Spring
Min:
36°F
Max:
66°F
Summer
Min:
57°F
Max:
89°F
Fall
Min:
34°F
Max:
68°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
18.7 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
63%
Neighbors
Households in Sidney typically earn around $58,800, with a low unemployment rate of 2.8% and a poverty rate of 11.5%. Most residents commute just 13 minutes to work, and public transportation use is minimal. The city’s educational attainment is strong, with over 92% holding a high school diploma or higher.
Median Income:
$36,200
Household Income:
$58,800
Family Income:
$72,500
Per Capita Income:
$30,100
Income Male:
$42,000
Income Female:
$34,000
Poverty Rate:
11.5%
Non English Speakers:
7.2%
Rent:
$850
Unemployment Rate:
2.8%
Public Transport Usage:
0.2%
Commute Time:
13.2 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
92.3%
Bachelors or More:
23.8%
Education
How are the schools in Sidney, NE?
Sidney boasts strong public schools, including Sidney High School and Sidney Middle School, both offering favorable student-teacher ratios. Families can also choose from private school options or attend the local campus of Western Nebraska Community College. Access to quality K-12 education and nearby higher education supports lifelong learning in the community.
Public Schools
Name:
Sidney High School
Street:
1100 19th Ave
Phone:
308-254-5855
Students:
435
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.3
Name:
Sidney Middle School
Street:
1515 9th Ave
Phone:
308-254-3247
Students:
340
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.7
Private Schools
Name:
St. Patrick's Catholic School
Street:
1029 3rd Ave
Phone:
308-254-4215
Students:
100
Colleges
Name:
Western Nebraska Community College - Sidney Campus
City:
Sidney
State:
NE
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
180
Name:
Chadron State College
City:
Chadron
State:
NE
Distance:
100 miles
Students:
3,000
Healthcare
Sidney residents have access to local healthcare at Sidney Regional Medical Center, a full-service hospital offering emergency services. With 1.7 physicians per 1,000 people and over 91% health insurance coverage, quality care is readily available. The community benefits from a healthcare system that meets most routine and urgent needs.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Sidney Regional Medical Center
Address:
1000 Pole Creek Crossing, Sidney, NE 69162
Phone:
(308) 254-5825
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.7
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.8%
Health Care Index:
71.3
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Sidney, NE?
The housing market in Sidney is stable and affordable, with a median home price at $158,000 and average two-bedroom rents around $800. About 65% of homes are owner-occupied, and the market sees low foreclosure and vacancy rates. Modest home appreciation and limited new construction reflect a steady, accessible market for buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$158,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$800
Owner Occupied Rate:
65.4%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.8%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
2.6%
New Construction Rate:
0.5%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.8%
DMV Information
Sidney’s DMV services are provided by the Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles, conveniently located on 11th Street. Residents can access vehicle registration, licensing, and information both in person and online. The office offers standard state services for local drivers and new arrivals.
State:
Nebraska
Department:
Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
2101 11th St, Sidney, NE 69162
Phone:
308-254-4261
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.