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Scottsbluff, NE

Frequently asked questions

Scottsbluff, NE

Scottsbluff is a city in Scotts Bluff County, Nebraska, United States, in the Great Plains region. The population was 14,436 at the 2020 census. Scottsbluff is the largest city in the Nebraska Panhandle, and the 13th-most-populous city in Nebraska.

Scottsbluff was founded in 1899 across the North Platte River from its namesake, a bluff that is now protected by the National Park Service as Scotts Bluff National Monument. The monument was named after Hiram Scott (1805–1828), a fur trader with the Rocky Mountain Fur Company who was found dead in the vicinity on the return trip from a fur expedition. The smaller town of Gering had been founded south of the river in 1887. The two cities have since grown together to form the 7th-largest urban area (the Scottsbluff Micropolitan Statistical Area) in Nebraska.

Scottsbluff was founded in 1899 by the Lincoln Land Company, a subsidiary of the Burlington Railroad. By 1900, the Burlington Railroad laid tracks into the town and placed a discarded boxcar next to the tracks as a temporary depot. Scottsbluff was the first town in the region to be located along a railroad line, resulting in some older businesses relocating from Gering to Scottsbluff.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 6.27 square miles (16.24 km²), of which 6.22 square miles (16.11 km²) is land and 0.05 square miles (0.13 km²) is water.

The 2020 census counted 14,436 people, 6,011 households, and 3,450 families in Scottsbluff. The population density was 2,177.4 per square mile (840.3/km²). There were 6,573 housing units at an average density of 991.4 per square mile (382.6/km²). The racial makeup was 71.54% (10,328) white, 1.18% (171) black or African-American, 3.18% (459) Native American, 1.11% (160) Asian, 0.1% (15) Pacific Islander, 10.27% (1,483) from other races, and 12.61% (1,820) from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race was 29.0% (4,294) of the population.

Of the 6,011 households, 29.6% had children under the age of 18; 37.8% were married couples living together; 34.0% had a female householder with no husband present. 35.2% of households consisted of individuals and 17.2% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.4 and the average family size was 3.0.

27.0% of the population was under the age of 18, 9.3% from 18 to 24, 25.4% from 25 to 44, 20.3% from 45 to 64, and 19.5% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 35.2 years. For every 100 females, the population had 85.9 males. For every 100 females ages 18 and older, there were 80.6 males.

The 2016-2020 5-year American Community Survey estimates show that the median household income was $49,182 (with a margin of error of +/- $4,570) and the median family income $61,381 (+/- $7,457). Males had a median income of $34,432 (+/- $4,668) versus $28,093 (+/- $2,212) for females. The median income for those above 16 years old was $30,336 (+/- $1,820). Approximately, 12.4% of families and 15.9% of the population were below the poverty line, including 18.3% of those under the age of 18 and 13.5% of those ages 65 or over.

Health and wellness are paramount in Scottsbluff, with the city offering various amenities and services to support the well-being of its residents. The Regional West Medical Center stands as a cornerstone in providing comprehensive healthcare services to the community. Explore the parks, facilities, and programs the Scottsbluff Parks and Recreation Department offers. These spaces provide opportunities for outdoor activities such as walking, jogging, sports, and picnicking. Join local fitness centers and gyms to participate in exercise programs, fitness classes, and strength training. Some popular options include Elite Total Fitness, Warehouse Fitness Center and Anytime Fitness. Discover the walking and biking trails in and around Scottsbluff, such as the Saddle Rock Trail and North Overlook Trail. These trails offer opportunities for outdoor exercise and enjoyment of nature.

Top sites in Scottsbluff, NE include Riverside Discovery Center, Midwest Theater, Legacy of the Plains Museum, and Riverside Campground.

Population: 14,283 (2022). Elevation: 3,947 feet (1,203 meters). Area: 6.27 square miles (16.24 km²). ZIP Code: 69361. Area code(s): 308.

FAQs

What's the cost of living in Scottsbluff, NE?

Scottsbluff is 16% less expensive than the national average and 4% less expensive to live in than the average city in Nebraska. This assumes a $72,000 annual salary and a 2 Bedroom Apt. Food costs in Scottsbluff are more affordable than average in the United States. Transportations costs in Scottsbluff are as affordable than average in the United States.

Is Scottsbluff, NE a good place to retire?

Scottsbluff offers retirees access to numerous parks, trails, and outdoor activities, as well as affordable housing options. The city is also home to Western Nebraska Community College, which offers educational and volunteer opportunities for retirees. Nebraska offers retirees an affordable lifestyle with a welcoming community, diverse cultural scene, and ample opportunities for outdoor activities. While harsh winters, limited public transportation, and healthcare options may be a concern for some, many retirees find Nebraska to be an ideal place to retire and enjoy their golden years.

Is Scottsbluff, NE a nice place to live?

Living in Scottsbluff offers residents a sparse suburban feel and most residents own their homes. In Scottsbluff there are a lot of parks. Many families and young professionals live in Scottsbluff and residents tend to lean conservative. The public schools in Scottsbluff are above average.

Sources

Wikipedia

City of Scottsbluff

Regional West Medical Center 

Scottsbluff Parks and Recreation Department 

Elite Total Fitness

Warehouse Fitness Center 

Anytime Fitness

Saddle Rock Trail 

North Overlook Trail

Riverside Discovery Center

Midwest Theater

Legacy of the Plains Museum

Riverside Campground

Erieri

Unbiased

Niche

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