Startup Costs in Nebraska

Data current as of May 2026

Nebraska offers affordable operating costs centered around Omaha, which punches above its weight as a business hub - it is home to Berkshire Hathaway and four other Fortune 500 companies. The state has low unemployment, which means finding employees can be competitive despite low labor costs. Lincoln's university population creates demand for food and service businesses.

Nebraska (NE) by the Numbers

LLC Filing Fee
$100
Annual Report
$25
State Income Tax
5.20%
Sales Tax
5.50%
Min Wage
$15.00/hr
Cost of Living
0.91x
Labor Cost
0.90x
Rent Index
0.75x

What Nebraska's Numbers Mean for Founders

  • State income tax caps at 5.20%.
  • Labor costs are 10% below the national average, a margin advantage for service and retail operations.
  • Commercial rent is 25% below the national average, which gives you more square footage for your budget.
  • Minimum wage is $15.00/hour - on the high end nationally, which lifts your entry-level labor costs.
Capital: Lincoln
Major metros: Omaha, Lincoln, Bellevue, Grand Island
Top industries: Agriculture, Insurance, Transportation, Technology

Nebraska Cost Guides (10)