City Profile
Papillion, Nebraska
USA · Comprehensive city data and intelligence
Papillion, Nebraska, is a vibrant and growing suburb located in Sarpy County, just southwest of Omaha. Originally platted in 1870, the city's name is derived from the Papillion Creek, which runs through its center, reportedly named by French explorers who observed an abundance of butterflies along its banks. Over the years, Papillion has transformed from a small frontier town into a thriving community, attracting residents with its blend of suburban tranquility and convenient access to urban amenities. Its strong sense of community, coupled with a commitment to quality of life, makes it an appealing place for families and professionals alike. The city is part of the Papillion-La Vista Public School District, known for its growth and comprehensive programs, further enhancing its appeal to families seeking good educational opportunities for their children. Papillion's strategic location, combined with its continuous development and community-focused initiatives, solidifies its position as a desirable place to live in the Omaha metropolitan area.
Nebraska, known as the "Cornhusker State," offers a blend of rural charm and urban opportunities with a strong sense of community. Its economy is deeply rooted in agriculture, particularly corn, soybeans, and cattle production, but also boasts growing sectors in manufacturing, finance, insurance, healthcare, and transportation. The cost of living in Nebraska is generally lower than the national average, primarily due to more affordable housing. The state experiences a continental climate with hot summers, cold and snowy winters, and significant seasonal temperature variations, with the eastern part being more humid and the western part semi-arid. Residents often enjoy a relaxed pace of life, friendly communities, and access to outdoor activities, though major entertainment and nightlife options are more concentrated in larger cities like Omaha and Lincoln.
How this 73/100 was calculated five components, with every reading behind them
| Component | Readings used | Points | Weight | Contributes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Safety | Safety score: 72 / 100 | 72.0 | 30% | 21.6 |
| Affordability | Cost of living index (100 = national baseline): 104.0 | 38.8 | 25% | 9.7 |
| Economy & jobs | Median household income: $111,679 Income needed to live here: $55,000 Unemployment rate: 2.2% | 98.8 | 20% | 19.8 |
| Growth | Population growth rate: 4.44% Job growth rate: 4.44% | 100.0 | 15% | 15.0 |
| Business climate assessment | Business climate assessment: 68 / 100 | 68.0 | 10% | 6.8 |
| Overall score | 72.8 | |||
Provenance.
These figures were produced by the research pass recorded as
Gemini (Tier 1 (fast), q=83), last refreshed
20 September 2026.
They are researched estimates drawn from public sources, not a licensed data feed.
Each component is scored against fixed published endpoints, so this number is comparable with any other city and does not move as the dataset grows. Scoring framework 2026.10 — full methodology, weights and accepted ranges.
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Cost of Living
Papillion's cost of living is slightly higher than the national average, with housing being a significant contributing factor. While overall expenses are around 4% higher than the U.S. average, this is largely driven by housing costs, which are about 17% higher than the national average. However, other categories like groceries, transportation, and healthcare tend to be at or below the national average, offering some balance. The median home price in Papillion is $311,000 as of 2024, and the median household income is $111,679, indicating a strong income level that helps offset the higher housing expenses for many residents. This economic profile suggests that while housing is a notable expense, the overall financial picture for residents is generally positive due to robust earning potential.
Income
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The economy of Papillion is robust and growing, with a diverse job market that employs approximately 13,500 people. The largest industries in Papillion are Health Care & Social Assistance, Educational Services, and Retail Trade. The highest-paying sectors include Utilities, Professional, Scientific, & Technical Services, and Finance & Insurance. Employment in Papillion has seen a growth rate of 4.44% from 2023 to 2024, indicating a healthy and expanding job market. Major employers in the area include CHI Health, a prominent healthcare provider, and the City of Papillion itself, alongside the Omaha Storm Chasers and Sarpy County government. The presence of large companies like Walmart, Costco, and Target also contributes significantly to the local employment landscape, offering a wide range of job opportunities across various sectors.
The average salary in Papillion is $65,000 per year. You would need approximately $55,000 to live comfortably.
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Papillion's transportation landscape is predominantly car-dependent, with most residents relying on personal vehicles for daily commutes. The average commute time is approximately 23 minutes, which is slightly shorter than the national average. While public transportation options are limited, with only one primary bus route (Route 93) and a specialized service for those with disabilities, the city's road network is designed for vehicular travel. Key routes like Highway 370 provide essential east-west connectivity, linking Papillion to Omaha and surrounding areas. Commuting north and south can be more challenging due to the lack of direct interstate access in those directions, often leading commuters to utilize arterial roads that can experience congestion during peak hours.
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