Get to know Grand Island

Community Profile

Community Snapshot

Population

Median Age

53,131

34.7

Median Household Income

Labor Market Population

$57,104

43,000

Transportation

BY CAR - Grand Island, benefits from a robust road network that includes Interstate 80 and U.S. Highways 30, 34, and 281, allowing efficient commuting within the state. This infrastructure supports quick transportation for business and personal travel, with major highways acting as a hub for efficient travel throughout the state.

BY TRAIN - Rail service in Grand Island is provided by Union Pacific and Burlington Northern-Santa Fe, offering significant connectivity and opportunities for industrial development. Rail infrastructure supports both existing businesses and potential new developments, making it a strategic location for rail-dependent industries.

BY PLANE - The Central Nebraska Regional Airport (CNRA) in Grand Island offers direct flights to major cities such as Phoenix, Las Vegas, and Dallas. It serves as a key economic asset, supporting over 2,200 jobs and generating more than $171 million in economic output annually. The airport is equipped with modern terminals and supports business and general aviation, making it a crucial hub for regional transportation.

Education

PUBLIC SCHOOL DISTRICTS

  • Grand Island Public Schools

  • Northwest Public Schools

  • Central Catholic Schools

  • Heartland Lutheran High School

LOCAL POST-SECONDARY SCHOOLS

  • Central Community College

  • Bellevue University

  • University of Nebraska - Kearney

  • Hastings College

Workforce

EMPLOYMENT TRENDS

Grand Island boasts a relatively low unemployment rate compared to national averages, thanks to a robust job market and various employment opportunities. The city's strategic location in Central Nebraska contributes to its economic growth and attracts businesses looking for a central hub. Job opportunities are abundant in sectors like healthcare, education, manufacturing, and retail, which are experiencing steady growth and demand for skilled workers.

DEMOGRAPHICS

The workforce in Grand Island is diverse, with a mix of experienced professionals and young workers entering the job market. The city has initiatives aimed at retaining young talent and attracting new professionals to ensure a dynamic and competitive labor force and programs designed to encourage networking and professional development among young workers.​

KEY INDUSTRIES

Grand Island's economy is primarily driven by several key industries, including agriculture, manufacturing, healthcare, education, and retail. Agriculture remains a vital part of the local economy, with a focus on farming, livestock, and agribusiness services. The city also hosts manufacturing plants that produce various goods, such as machinery, metal products, and food products.

Top employers include:

  • JBS

  • Grand Island Public Schools

  • CHI Health St. Francis

  • Hornady Manufacturing

  • CNH Industrial America

  • WalMart

  • Chief Industries

  • McCain Foods

  • City of Grand Island

  • Principal

The Railside District at Night

The Railside District at Night

The Mural Project in Downtown Grand Island

The Mural Project in Downtown Grand Island

Kinkaider Brewing Co. in Railside

Kinkaider Brewing Co. in Railside

Hear Grand Island - Summer Concert Series in Railside

Hear Grand Island - Summer Concert Series in Railside

Ladies on the Prairie at Stuhr Museum

Ladies on the Prairie at Stuhr Museum

Horse Racing at Fonner Park

Horse Racing at Fonner Park

Sources include Grand Island Area Economic Development Corporation, Grand Island Area Chamber of Commerce, and City of Grand Island
Photos courtesy of visitgrandisland.com