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 Mural Project in Downtown Grand Island
Kinkaider Brewing Co. in Railside
Hear Grand Island - Summer Concert Series in Railside
Ladies on the Prairie at Stuhr Museum
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