Cost of Living in Lincoln, NE

How far does a $70,000 salary go in Lincoln? Estimated income taxes on that gross salary total approximately $10,200 per year — combining federal taxes with Nebraska's state income tax. Subtract rent for a 2-bedroom apartment ($1,141/month based on HUD Fair Market Rents for the Lincoln metro area) and the estimated annual take-home is $46,108, or roughly $3,842 per month for everything else: food, transportation, savings, and discretionary spending.

The Lincoln metro has a cost of living index of 83.6 according to the Bureau of Economic Analysis Regional Price Parities (national average = 100). At 16% below the national average, Lincoln is a genuinely affordable metro where everyday expenses stretch further than in most cities.

At a $70,000 salary, the estimated 2-bedroom rent in Lincoln represents approximately 20% of gross income. That falls comfortably below the 30% rent-burden guideline, a healthy position for building savings.