Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Wauneta, NE
Considering a move to Wauneta, NE? With a close-knit population of just 564, Wauneta offers small-town charm, affordable homes (median price $74,000), and low rents. Crime rates are much lower than the national average, and residents enjoy a short 11-minute average commute. Families benefit from local schools with low student-teacher ratios, and the area boasts 66% sunny days per year for outdoor living. Explore Wauneta’s relaxed lifestyle and welcoming community as you plan your next move.
Demographics - Wauneta, NE
Demographics - Wauneta, NE
Wauneta is a small, close-knit community of 564 residents, with a median age of 49.7, reflecting a mature population. The area is predominantly White (97%) and has a balanced gender ratio, while about 4% of residents speak languages other than English. Its moderate population density fosters a peaceful, neighborly atmosphere ideal for those seeking a quiet rural lifestyle.
Population:
564
Density:
800 per sq mi
Median Age:
49.7
Gender Ratio:
95 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
4.2%

Ethnic Composition
White:
97.0%
Black:
0.0%
Asian:
0.7%
Others:
2.3%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Wauneta, NE?
Wauneta offers a highly affordable cost of living, with a median home value of just $74,000 and average rent around $605 per month. Essential expenses like utilities and groceries remain below national averages, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious families and retirees. State tax rates are moderate, and overall living costs are significantly lower than in larger urban areas.
Median House Value:
$74,000
Gross Rent:
$605
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$115
Auto Insurance:
$1,210
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$870
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$370
State Taxes:
Low:
2.46%
|
High:
6.84%
Cost Of Living Index:
78.0
Grocery:
92.0
Housing:
43.0
Utilities:
95.0
Transportation:
85.0
Health Care:
91.0
Miscellaneous:
91.0
Crime
Is Wauneta, NE a safe place to live?
The village experiences notably low crime rates, with violent crime at just 85 incidents per 100,000 residents and a property crime rate well below national averages. Residents enjoy a 1 in 1,175 chance of being affected by violent crime, contributing to a safe and secure environment. Peace of mind and community trust are key features of life in Wauneta.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
85
Property Crimes Per 100k:
710
Crime Index:
795
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 1,175
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 141
Weather
What is the weather like in Wauneta, NE year-round?
Wauneta enjoys four distinct seasons, with warm, sunny summers reaching highs around 90°F and cold winters that dip to 15°F. The area receives about 21 inches of rainfall annually and boasts an impressive 66% of sunny days, perfect for outdoor activities. Residents can expect crisp autumns and pleasant springs, making the weather varied yet comfortable year-round.

Winter
Min:
15°F
Max:
38°F

Spring
Min:
36°F
Max:
66°F

Summer
Min:
60°F
Max:
90°F

Fall
Min:
34°F
Max:
68°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
20.7 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
66%
Neighbors
Wauneta’s neighbors reflect a welcoming rural community with a median household income of $47,300 and a low unemployment rate of 2.8%. Most residents have at least a high school education, and average commute times are just under 11 minutes. The poverty rate is relatively low, and families benefit from a friendly, stable environment with minimal reliance on public transport.
Median Income:
$32,000
Household Income:
$47,300
Family Income:
$60,500
Per Capita Income:
$25,100
Income Male:
$35,000
Income Female:
$25,900
Poverty Rate:
11.2%
Non English Speakers:
4.2%
Rent:
$605
Unemployment Rate:
2.8%
Public Transport Usage:
0.0%
Commute Time:
10.8 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
90.5%
Bachelors or More:
19.2%
Education
How are the schools in Wauneta, NE?
Wauneta offers quality education through its local public schools, featuring small class sizes and low student-teacher ratios that support personalized learning. While there are no private schools in town, Mid-Plains Community College is located just 38 miles away for higher education opportunities. Families benefit from a supportive academic environment and community-focused schools.

Public Schools
Name:
Wauneta-Palisade Elementary School
Street:
214 West Wichita, Wauneta, NE 69045
Phone:
308-394-5700
Students:
120
Student Teacher Ratio:
10.5
Name:
Wauneta-Palisade High School
Street:
214 West Wichita, Wauneta, NE 69045
Phone:
308-394-5700
Students:
95
Student Teacher Ratio:
8.9

Colleges
Name:
Mid-Plains Community College
City:
McCook
State:
NE
Distance:
38 miles
Students:
2,200
Healthcare
Healthcare in Wauneta is supported by local facilities like the Wauneta Care and Therapy Center and nearby Chase County Community Hospital, which provides emergency services. With 1.1 physicians per 1,000 residents and over 91% insured, access to basic medical care is reliable. The community’s healthcare index suggests solid coverage for routine needs, with specialized care available in nearby towns.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Wauneta Care and Therapy Center
Address:
427 Legion St, Wauneta, NE 69045
Phone:
(308) 394-5621
Type:
Skilled Nursing & Therapy
Emergency Services:
No
Name:
Chase County Community Hospital
Address:
600 W 12th St, Imperial, NE 69033
Phone:
(308) 882-7111
Type:
Critical Access Hospital
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.5%
Health Care Index:
71.0
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Wauneta, NE?
Wauneta's housing market is very affordable, with a median home price of $74,000 and about three-quarters of homes owner-occupied. Rental options are available with an average rent of $605, and the area maintains a low foreclosure rate and steady appreciation. New construction is limited, maintaining the town’s small-scale charm.
Median Home Price:
$74,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$605
Owner Occupied Rate:
74.2%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
8.5%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
2.9%
New Construction Rate:
0.7%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.1%
DMV Information
Wauneta residents are served by the Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles, headquartered in Lincoln, with convenient access to licensing and vehicle services both online and by phone. The DMV provides all essential services for drivers and vehicle owners in the state. For more information or appointments, residents can visit the official website or call the main office.
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.