The Best Counties to Buy Land in Nebraska

Rolling prairies stretching as far as the eye can see, golden cornfields swaying in the breeze, and the occasional picturesque barn dotting the landscape. Welcome to Nebraska, folks – a land of opportunity for those looking to stake their claim in the heartland of America.

Now, if you're thinking about buying land in the Cornhusker State, you're onto something good. But with 93 counties spread across more than 77,000 square miles, where do you even start? Don't worry, we've got you covered. Let's dive into some of the best counties for land purchases in Nebraska, backed by some pretty interesting numbers and local know-how.

First things first, let's talk shop. According to the USDA's National Agricultural Statistics Service, Nebraska's farm real estate value (that's land and buildings, mind you) averaged a cool $3,100 per acre in 2022. Now, hold onto your hats, because that's a whopping 21% jump from 2021. If that doesn't scream "investment opportunity," I don't know what does. Oh, and here's another tidbit for you: the Nebraska Department of Economic Development reports that the state's population grew by 7.4% between 2010 and 2020. More people means more demand for land and housing. You do the math.

Nebraska: More Than Just Cornfields

Now, don't go thinking Nebraska is all flat farmland. This state's got range, baby. We're talking rolling hills in the east, rugged Sandhills in the north-central region, the fertile Platte River Valley, and the High Plains of the Panhandle. It's like a buffet of landscapes, each with its own flavor and perks.

Sure, agriculture is the big cheese here. Corn, soybeans, and cattle are the headliners. But don't sleep on the urban scene. Omaha and Lincoln are thriving cities that offer a taste of city life with easy access to those wide-open spaces. It's the best of both worlds, really.

What to Look for When Buying Nebraska Land

Before we start naming names (counties, that is), let's talk about what makes a piece of land worth its salt in Nebraska:

1. Soil Quality: If farming's your game, soil is your name. Eastern counties generally have the good stuff, while the west might need a bit more TLC.
2. Water Access: Nebraska's sitting pretty on the Ogallala Aquifer, but water availability can be as unpredictable as a Nebraska spring. Counties with reliable water sources are golden.
3. Infrastructure: Roads, power lines, internet – the works. The closer you are to civilization, the easier (and often pricier) things get.
4. Economic Mojo: Strong local economies usually mean land values hold steady or even climb. Something to think about.
5. Rules and Regs: Each county's got its own rulebook. Make sure it plays nice with your plans.
6. Eye Candy: If you're in it for the views, some counties have more to offer than others. Beauty is in the eye of the landholder, after all.

Now, let's get to the good stuff – the counties that are turning heads in the Nebraska land market.

Top Picks for Farm Folk

1. York County

Smack dab in east-central Nebraska, York County is like the prom queen of agricultural land. Rich, loamy soil? Check. Access to water from the Upper Big Blue Natural Resources District? You bet. If you're dreaming of corn and soybean fields stretching to the horizon, York County might just be your slice of heaven.

Why York County Rocks:

• Crop yields that'll make your neighbors green with envy
• Irrigation setup that's the envy of the state
• Close enough to major grain markets to keep your wallet happy

2. Custer County

Now, if you're more of a "little bit of this, little bit of that" type, Custer County in central Nebraska might be your jam. It's one of the biggest counties in the state and offers a mix of cropland and rangeland. Perfect for those who can't make up their minds (in a good way).

Custer County Perks:

• Diverse landscape that's great for crops and cattle
• Part of the legendary Nebraska Sandhills
• More bang for your buck compared to those pricey eastern counties

3. Cuming County

Ever heard of the "Livestock Feeding Capital"? Well, now you have. Cuming County in northeast Nebraska is where it's at if you're into cattle or thinking about growing some serious feed crops.

Why Cuming County's a Winner:

• A agricultural community that's got your back
• Soil so good, your crops will practically grow themselves
• Everything you need for a successful livestock operation

For the Homebodies and Nature Lovers

1. Lancaster County

Home to Lincoln (that's the state capital, for those in the back), Lancaster County is perfect for folks who want a bit of country living with city perks just around the corner.

Lancaster County Highlights:

• Land options from small acreages to "I can't see my neighbors" sized plots
• Jobs aplenty and a stable economy (thanks, government offices!)
• Culture, education, and yes, Husker football

2. Sarpy County

If you've got your eye on the Omaha metro area, Sarpy County is where it's at. It's growing faster than a cornstalk in July, making it a solid bet for future development.

Why Sarpy County's Hopping:

• Infrastructure that's expanding quicker than you can say "suburban sprawl"
• Omaha's job market is just a hop, skip, and a jump away
• Choose your own adventure: suburban lots or rural hideaways

3. Keith County

Dreaming of lakeside living? Keith County in western Nebraska is calling your name. Home to Lake McConaughy (locals call it "Big Mac"), it's a paradise for water lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Keith County Perks:

• Views that'll make your Instagram followers jealous
• Hunting and fishing that'll keep you busy year-round
• More affordable than those fancy lake houses back east

Up-and-Coming Counties to Watch

1. Dawson County

Sitting pretty along the Platte River in central Nebraska, Dawson County is like that band you discover before they hit it big. It's got a nice mix of agriculture and industry, making it a potential goldmine for savvy investors.

Why Dawson County's on the Rise:

• Growing industrial sector (hello, job opportunities!)
• Good mix of cropland and rangeland
• Land prices that won't make your wallet weep (yet)

2. Scotts Bluff County

Out in the Panhandle, Scotts Bluff County is serving up some serious landscape goals. From sugar beet fields to those iconic bluffs, this county's got range.

Scotts Bluff County Standouts:

• Scenery that looks like it belongs on a postcard
• Diverse ag opportunities (ever thought about growing sunflowers?)
• Tourism industry that's just starting to take off

Some Friendly Advice for Land Buyers

1. Do Your Homework: Each county's got its own quirks. Get to know them before you buy.
2. Water, Water Everywhere?: Not necessarily. Make sure you understand the water situation for any land you're eyeing.
3. Think Long-Term: Land's not a get-rich-quick scheme. Consider how things might change down the road.
4. Call in the Pros: A good land agent is worth their weight in gold (or corn, in Nebraska).
5. See It to Believe It: Nothing beats boots on the ground. Visit in different seasons if you can.
6. Market Savvy: Land values can be as unpredictable as Nebraska weather. Be ready to do some serious legwork to get the best deal.
7. Keep Your Options Open: Traditional land sales can take forever (we're talking 1-2 years for vacant land). But there are companies out there, like Land Boss, that buy land for cash. They've been around for 5 years and have over 100 land deals under their belt. Could be worth a look if you're in a hurry.

Final Thoughts

There you have it, folks – a whirlwind tour of some of Nebraska's finest land-buying opportunities. Whether you're dreaming of vast farmlands, a quiet acreage, or a slice of lakeside paradise, the Cornhusker State's got something for everyone.

Remember, buying land is a big deal. It's not like picking up a new pair of boots. Take your time, do your research, and maybe chat with some locals. They usually know where the good stuff is.

And hey, if all this talk of research and waiting around for traditional sales has you feeling overwhelmed, there's no shame in exploring other options. Companies like Land Boss specialize in making the land-buying process quick and painless. With their experience and cash offers, you could be living the Nebraska dream sooner than you think.

So, what are you waiting for? Your piece of Nebraska paradise is out there waiting for you. Go find it!

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