Assisted Living in Nebraska
What It Costs Across Nebraska
While the statewide median for assisted living in Nebraska is around $4,076 per month, costs can vary significantly depending on where you look. For example, recent data from 2024 indicates the average monthly cost across Nebraska is $5,399. Major cities often see higher prices, with Omaha averaging $6,150 per month and Lincoln at about $5,874 per month. In contrast, areas like Grand Island can be more affordable, with averages closer to $5,305 per month. Historically, some regions like Bellevue have shown even lower averages at $3,448 per month. These price differences often reflect the cost of living in the area, demand for services, and the range of amenities offered by facilities.
Will Medicaid Help Pay?
Yes, Nebraska offers the Aged and Disabled Waiver (AD Waiver), a specific Medicaid program designed to help cover assisted living services for eligible residents. This waiver assists seniors aged 65 or older, and individuals of any age with physical disabilities, who require a nursing home level of care but wish to remain in a community setting. The AD Waiver can help cover services like personal care, adult day health care, and respite care. However, it's important to understand that this is not an entitlement program; enrollment slots are limited, meaning there can be a waiting list for services. To be eligible, applicants must meet Nebraska Medicaid's financial requirements, which in 2023 meant income below $1,215 a month for "categorically needy" individuals or demonstrating that medical expenses reduce their available income to approximately $392 a month for "medically needy" applicants. Not all assisted living facilities accept the Medicaid Waiver, and some may require private payment for a period before accepting waiver funds.
How to Find a Good Facility
Finding the right home for your loved one is a big step, and Nebraska has many options. As of March 2026, Nebraska has 279 licensed assisted living facilities offering 13,973 licensed beds. The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) is the state agency responsible for licensing and overseeing these facilities. They conduct inspections prior to a facility being licensed and routinely afterward, and can also inspect anytime they deem it necessary. When looking for a facility, it's crucial to confirm they can meet your family member's specific needs, as services vary from one location to another. You can check inspection records for any facility directly through the DHHS website, which is an invaluable tool for understanding a facility's compliance history.
Last updated: March 2026. Sources: Genworth 2024, state licensing agency.