Cost of Living: Lincoln, NE vs Anchorage, AK (2026)

Lincoln

Nebraska
77
VS

Anchorage

Alaska
113

Lincoln is 36% cheaper than Anchorage.

$1,045/mo ↓ 28%
Median Rent
$1,453/mo ↑ 39%
$69,991/yr ↓ 29%
Median Income
$98,152/yr ↑ 40%
$248,200 ↓ 34%
Home Value
$375,900 ↑ 51%
$1,140/mo ↓ 33%
Owner Costs
$1,698/mo ↑ 49%
291,932
Population
289,069

Tax Comparison

6.64%
Income Tax
0%
5.5%
Sales Tax
0%
1.73%
Property Tax
1.04%

Affordability

17.9%
rent-to-income
Affordability
17.8%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Lincoln, NE and Anchorage, AK, the overall cost of living indices are 77 and 113 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $408/month cheaper in Lincoln, saving renters about $4,896/year.

Median household income is $28,161/year higher in Anchorage. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Lincoln is $248,200 compared to $375,900 in Anchorage.

Alaska has no state income tax, giving Anchorage residents a significant tax advantage over Nebraska's 6.64% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Lincoln vs Anchorage — common questions

Is Lincoln or Anchorage cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Lincoln is cheaper to live in with an index of 77 compared to 113 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Lincoln and Anchorage?
Median rent in Lincoln is $1,045/month and in Anchorage it's $1,453/month — a difference of $408/month.
Which city has higher income, Lincoln or Anchorage?
Median household income is $69,991 in Lincoln and $98,152 in Anchorage. Median household income is $28,161/year higher in Anchorage.
How do taxes compare between Nebraska and Alaska?
Nebraska has 6.64% income tax, 5.5% sales tax, and 1.73% property tax. Alaska has 0% income tax, 0% sales tax, and 1.04% property tax.
Should I move to Lincoln or Anchorage?
It depends on your priorities. Lincoln has a cost index of 77 with median rent of $1,045/mo, while Anchorage has a cost index of 113 with rent of $1,453/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
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