Moving to Nebraska offers a combination of career opportunities, affordability, and a warm Midwest lifestyle. The state’s economy is supported by several major sectors, offering prospective residents a variety of options. Nebraska’s major industries range from agriculture to technology, attracting workers in a growing job market. Whether you’re browsing Omaha homes for sale or Lincoln apartments, you’ll find plenty of reasons to call Nebraska home. Explore the industries that make Nebraska a great place to live and work.
Nebraska Overview: Home Prices, Income, and Employment
Top Employers in Nebraska
University of Nebraska: 16,000 employees Walmart: 13,000 employees Berkshire Hathaway: 12,000 employees CHI Health: 10,300 employees Offutt Air Force Base: 10,000 employees
Nebraska’s 10 Major Industries
1. Agriculture and Agriculture
Major Employers: Union Grain Co. (St. Rivolie), Ag Processing Inc. (Omaha), and Aurora Cooperative (Aurora).
Agriculture is the backbone of Nebraska’s economy, employing more than 50,000 people in agriculture, livestock management, and agricultural technology. Major crops include corn and soybeans, and the state ranks high in cattle production. Jobs in this industry range from practical farming to agricultural engineering to food processing. Nebraska’s agricultural heritage and innovative farming practices make it attractive to those seeking stability in this important sector. Additionally, the state’s rural housing is affordable, making it ideal for those working in agriculture.
Considering moving to Nebraska to work in this industry? Consider homes for sale in Kearney or Aurora.
2. Manufacturing
Major employers: Valmont Industries (Omaha), Kawasaki Motors Manufacturing Corp. (Lincoln), and Becton Dickinson (Nebraska location).
Manufacturing is a growing industry in Nebraska, producing everything from machinery to pharmaceuticals. This division employs skilled workers in production, assembly, and quality assurance. Many companies offer competitive wages and career advancement opportunities. Nebraska’s central location makes it a manufacturing and distribution center, attracting professionals from across the country.
Considering moving to Nebraska to work in this industry? Consider homes for sale in Lincoln or Omaha.
3. Transportation and warehousing
Major Employers: Werner Enterprises (Omaha), Union Pacific (Omaha), Crete Carrier Corporation (Lincoln)
Transportation and logistics companies thrive in Nebraska because of its central location. This industry employs drivers, logistics coordinators, and warehouse operators. Nebraska’s large cities, where many of these companies are based, offer renters and buyers plenty of housing options. Nebraska’s role as a shipping hub ensures a steady demand for skilled labor. Home buyers and renters also benefit from living near a busy transportation hub.
Considering moving to Nebraska to work in this industry? Consider homes for sale in Omaha or Lincoln.
4. Finance and Insurance
Major Employers: Mutual of Omaha (Omaha), Ameritas (Lincoln), Nelnet (Lincoln)
Nebraska’s Finance and Insurance sector offers careers in banking, underwriting, and investment management. Leading companies attract professionals looking for competitive pay and career advancement. Cities like Omaha and Lincoln blend urban convenience with community-oriented living. This industry contributes to Nebraska’s strong economy and supports Nebraska’s status as a great place to live and work.
Considering moving to Nebraska to work in this industry? Consider homes for sale in Omaha or Waterloo.
5. Medical and social assistance
Major Employers: Nebraska Medicine (Omaha), CHI Health (Omaha), Bryan Health (Lincoln)
Healthcare is a growing industry in Nebraska, with nursing, administrative, and medical research roles. Large employers offer excellent training and benefits to their workers. Living near a medical hub means you have easy access to quality medical services and local resources. The job security in this field makes it an attractive option for professionals.
Considering moving to Nebraska to work in this industry? Consider homes for sale in Lincoln or Waverly.
6. Education
Major Employers: University of Nebraska (Lincoln), Creighton University (Omaha), Bellevue University (Bellevue)
Nebraska’s education system offers roles for teachers, administrators, and support staff. The state’s colleges and universities are major employers and contribute to a thriving academic community. The University of Nebraska at Lincoln is the state’s largest employer with 16,000 employees. These cities also offer a variety of housing options for renters and buyers near top schools.
Considering moving to Nebraska to work in this industry? Consider homes for sale in Lincoln or Bellevue.
7. Information technology
Major employers: Hudl (Lincoln), Infogroup (Papillion office), Buildertrend (Omaha)
Nebraska’s IT sector is growing, offering jobs in software development, data analysis, and cybersecurity. Leading technology companies attract talent with competitive salaries and innovative work environments. Our central location in Nebraska also appeals to IT professionals looking for work-life balance. The expansion of the technology industry ensures a steady demand for skilled labor.
Considering moving to Nebraska to work in this industry? Consider homes for sale in Papillion or Omaha.
8. Food processing
Major Employers: Conagra Brands (office in Omaha), Smithfield Foods (Nebraska location), Hormel Foods (Nebraska location)
Nebraska food processing plants supply products throughout the country and are responsible for production, quality assurance, and management. Meat and poultry processing alone generates more than $26 billion in revenue. These jobs often include training and opportunities for advancement. Workers also benefit from job security in this essential industry. Many communities in Nebraska thrive because of food processing jobs.
Considering moving to Nebraska to work in this industry? Consider homes for sale in Omaha or Crete.
9. Energy production
Major Employers: Nebraska Public Power District (Columbus), Tenaska (Omaha), OPPD (Omaha)
Nebraska’s Energy Department is committed to renewable energy and efficient utilities. Nebraska Public Power District and Omaha Public Power District offer jobs in electrical engineering, maintenance, and environmental compliance. Black Hills Energy supports Nebraska communities with natural gas service. Energy professionals are drawn to Nebraska for its commitment to sustainability.
Considering moving to Nebraska to work in this industry? Consider homes for sale in Columbus or Omaha.
10. Retail industry
Major Employers: Cabela’s (Sidney), Scheels (Nebraska location), Hy-Vee (Nebraska location)
The retail industry provides diverse employment opportunities in Nebraska’s urban and rural areas. Cabela’s is headquartered in Sydney and specializes in outdoor gear and apparel. Kearney’s Buckle offers fashion retail and management roles. Retail jobs attract people who seek dynamic, customer-facing roles.
Considering moving to Nebraska to work in this industry? Consider homes for sale in Lincoln or Sidney.
