Nebraska Counties. List Alphabetically (and by Population)

How many counties are there in Nebraska? As of 2024, there are a total of 93 counties in the state of Nebraska. Among them, Burt County is the oldest one (established in 1854) while Garden County is the youngest (established in 1910).  With population of 537,256, Douglas County is the most populated. The biggest county by land area is Cherry County (15,439 km²) and the smallest is Sarpy County (624 km²).

Largest Counties in Nebraska

1. Cherry County

County Seat: Valentine

  • Area: 5,961 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 5,689
  • Area Codes: 402, 308
  • Latitude and Longitude: 42.8201° N, 100.5507° W

Location and History

Cherry County, located in the north-central part of Nebraska, is the largest county in the state by area. Established in 1883, it was named after Samuel A. Cherry, an army officer who served in the region. The county is part of the Sandhills, a vast region of mixed-grass prairie on grass-stabilized sand dunes, which makes it unique in terms of its geography and ecology. Valentine, the county seat, is a small but vibrant town known for its outdoor activities and scenic beauty. The county’s history is deeply rooted in cattle ranching, which remains a vital part of its economy. The sparsely populated county is known for its wide-open spaces, natural beauty, and abundant wildlife.

Major Highways and Landmarks

Cherry County is traversed by major highways such as U.S. Route 83, which runs north-south through the county, connecting it to South Dakota and Kansas, and U.S. Route 20, which runs east-west. Notable landmarks include the Niobrara National Scenic River, known for its stunning waterfalls, cliffs, and abundant wildlife, and the Samuel R. McKelvie National Forest, which offers recreational activities such as hiking, fishing, and camping. The Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge is another significant site, providing a habitat for bison, elk, and numerous bird species. Valentine National Wildlife Refuge, with its sandhills and wetlands, is a popular destination for birdwatching and fishing.

2. Custer County

County Seat: Broken Bow

  • Area: 2,576 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 10,777
  • Area Codes: 308
  • Latitude and Longitude: 41.3950° N, 99.6398° W

Location and History

Custer County is located in central Nebraska and is known for its agricultural productivity. The county was established in 1877 and named after General George Armstrong Custer, who was famously defeated at the Battle of Little Bighorn. Broken Bow, the county seat, was founded in 1882 and quickly became a center for farming and ranching, which are still the primary economic activities in the county today. The fertile soil and rolling plains of Custer County have made it one of the leading agricultural regions in Nebraska, with corn, soybeans, and cattle being the main products.

Major Highways and Landmarks

Custer County is accessible via major highways such as U.S. Route 183, which runs north-south through the county, and Nebraska Highway 2, which runs east-west and is part of the Sandhills Journey Scenic Byway. Notable landmarks include the Broken Bow City Square, which features historic buildings and a charming downtown area. The county is also home to the Nebraska State 4-H Camp at Halsey National Forest, a popular destination for youth programs and outdoor activities. Additionally, Victoria Springs State Recreation Area, one of Nebraska’s oldest parks, offers camping, fishing, and picnicking in a serene natural setting.

3. Lincoln County

County Seat: North Platte

  • Area: 2,575 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 34,914
  • Area Codes: 308
  • Latitude and Longitude: 41.1269° N, 100.7654° W

Location and History

Lincoln County is located in west-central Nebraska, named after President Abraham Lincoln. The county was established in 1866 and quickly became an important transportation hub due to its location along the Union Pacific Railroad. North Platte, the county seat, is historically significant as the home of the North Platte Canteen, which served millions of soldiers during World War II. The county’s economy has traditionally been based on agriculture, railroads, and, more recently, tourism. The North Platte River, which flows through the county, has been a vital resource for irrigation and recreation.

Major Highways and Landmarks

Lincoln County is served by major highways such as Interstate 80, which runs east-west through the county, connecting it to Omaha and Denver, and U.S. Route 83, which runs north-south. Notable landmarks include Buffalo Bill Ranch State Historical Park, which preserves the home of the famous showman Buffalo Bill Cody, and the Golden Spike Tower, offering panoramic views of Bailey Yard, the world’s largest railroad classification yard. The Lincoln County Historical Museum in North Platte offers exhibits on the area’s pioneer and railroad history. Lake Maloney State Recreation Area is a popular spot for boating, fishing, and camping.

4. Holt County

County Seat: O’Neill

  • Area: 2,417 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 10,067
  • Area Codes: 402
  • Latitude and Longitude: 42.4567° N, 98.6493° W

Location and History

Holt County is located in north-central Nebraska and was established in 1876. The county was named after Joseph Holt, a U.S. Postmaster General and Secretary of War. O’Neill, the county seat, is known as the “Irish Capital of Nebraska,” reflecting the heritage of its founder, General John O’Neill, an Irish-American soldier and leader. Holt County’s economy is primarily based on agriculture, with cattle ranching and crop production being the main economic activities. The county’s vast plains and fertile soil have made it an important agricultural region in the state.

Major Highways and Landmarks

Holt County is accessible via U.S. Route 20, which runs east-west through the county, and U.S. Route 275, which connects the county to Norfolk and other parts of Nebraska. Notable landmarks include the O’Neill Shamrock, a large shamrock painted in the middle of O’Neill’s main street, symbolizing the town’s Irish heritage. The county is also home to the Holt County Historical Museum, which preserves the history of the region, and the Cowboy Trail, a converted railroad trail that offers scenic views for hikers and cyclists. The annual St. Patrick’s Day celebration in O’Neill is one of the largest in the state and a major cultural event.

5. Sheridan County

County Seat: Rushville

  • Area: 2,441 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 5,246
  • Area Codes: 308
  • Latitude and Longitude: 42.7186° N, 102.4631° W

Location and History

Sheridan County is located in the northern Panhandle of Nebraska, bordering South Dakota. The county was established in 1885 and named after General Philip Sheridan, a Union general during the Civil War. Rushville, the county seat, developed as a service center for the surrounding agricultural region. The county’s history is closely tied to the development of the western frontier, with cattle ranching playing a significant role in its economy. The landscape of Sheridan County is characterized by rolling plains, sandhills, and the Pine Ridge, a rugged escarpment that provides a unique environment within the state.

Major Highways and Landmarks

Sheridan County is accessible via U.S. Route 20, which runs east-west through the county, and Nebraska Highway 87, which provides access to the southern parts of the county. Notable landmarks include the Hudson-Meng Bison Kill Site, an important archaeological site that provides insight into prehistoric life on the Great Plains. The county is also home to the Fort Robinson State Park, a historic site that was once a military outpost and now offers camping, hiking, and horseback riding. The Pine Ridge National Recreation Area provides opportunities for outdoor activities in a scenic and rugged setting.

6. Garden County

County Seat: Oshkosh

  • Area: 1,731 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 1,837
  • Area Codes: 308
  • Latitude and Longitude: 41.4014° N, 102.3496° W

Location and History

Garden County is located in western Nebraska, within the Sandhills region. The county was established in 1909 and named for its fertile soil, which was considered suitable for farming despite the challenging environment. Oshkosh, the county seat, developed as a small but important center for agriculture and cattle ranching. The North Platte River runs through the county, providing a vital water source for irrigation and livestock. Garden County’s economy is primarily based on agriculture, with cattle ranching and hay production being the main activities. The county’s remote location and sparse population give it a unique character within the state.

Major Highways and Landmarks

Garden County is accessible via U.S. Route 26, which runs east-west through the county, connecting it to Scottsbluff and Ogallala. Nebraska Highway 27 runs north-south through the county, providing access to the Sandhills region. Notable landmarks include Crescent Lake National Wildlife Refuge, which provides a habitat for a wide variety of wildlife and offers opportunities for birdwatching, fishing, and hiking. The county is also home to Ash Hollow State Historical Park, a site that preserves the history of the Oregon Trail, with features such as wagon ruts and historic structures. Lake McConaughy, located nearby, is a popular destination for boating, fishing, and camping.

7. Sioux County

County Seat: Harrison

  • Area: 2,067 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 1,200
  • Area Codes: 308
  • Latitude and Longitude: 42.4667° N, 103.8848° W

Location and History

Sioux County is located in the far northwestern corner of Nebraska, bordering Wyoming and South Dakota. The county was established in 1877 and named after the Sioux Native American tribe, which historically inhabited the region. Harrison, the county seat, is the smallest county seat in Nebraska and serves as the primary community for this sparsely populated area. Sioux County is characterized by its rugged terrain, including the Pine Ridge and the Wildcat Hills, making it one of the most scenic and geologically interesting regions in Nebraska. The economy of Sioux County is primarily based on cattle ranching, with tourism also playing a role due to the county’s natural attractions.

Major Highways and Landmarks

Sioux County is accessible via U.S. Route 20, which runs east-west through the county, and Nebraska Highway 29, which runs north-south, connecting Harrison to Wyoming. Notable landmarks include Agate Fossil Beds National Monument, a significant paleontological site that preserves fossils from prehistoric mammals. The county is also home to the Toadstool Geologic Park, known for its unique rock formations and badlands, which offer a glimpse into the area’s ancient geological history. The nearby Fort Robinson State Park, located just outside the county, is another major attraction, offering a range of recreational activities and historical exhibits.

8. Keith County

County Seat: Ogallala

  • Area: 1,110 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 8,207
  • Area Codes: 308
  • Latitude and Longitude: 41.1287° N, 101.7197° W

Location and History

Keith County is located in western Nebraska, along the Platte River. The county was established in 1873 and named after M.C. Keith, a pioneer rancher and businessman. Ogallala, the county seat, has a rich history as a cattle town, serving as a key stop on the Great Western Cattle Trail during the late 19th century. The town was known for its rowdy atmosphere during the cattle drive era, earning it the nickname “Gomorrah of the Plains.” Today, Keith County’s economy is driven by agriculture, tourism, and the services provided to travelers along Interstate 80, which runs through the county.

Major Highways and Landmarks

Keith County is served by major highways such as Interstate 80, which runs east-west through the county, and U.S. Route 26, which follows the Platte River. Notable landmarks include Lake McConaughy, Nebraska’s largest reservoir, known for its white sand beaches, excellent fishing, and water sports. The nearby Lake Ogallala State Recreation Area offers additional opportunities for camping and wildlife viewing. The Front Street and Cowboy Museum in Ogallala preserves the history of the Old West, with exhibits on the cattle drives and a recreated frontier town. The Petrified Wood Gallery in Ogallala showcases unique geological specimens and Native American artifacts.

9. Sheridan County

County Seat: Rushville

  • Area: 2,441 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 5,246
  • Area Codes: 308
  • Latitude and Longitude: 42.7186° N, 102.4631° W

Location and History

Sheridan County is located in the northern Panhandle of Nebraska, bordering South Dakota. The county was established in 1885 and named after General Philip Sheridan, a Union general during the Civil War. Rushville, the county seat, developed as a service center for the surrounding agricultural region. The county’s history is closely tied to the development of the western frontier, with cattle ranching playing a significant role in its economy. The landscape of Sheridan County is characterized by rolling plains, sandhills, and the Pine Ridge, a rugged escarpment that provides a unique environment within the state.

Major Highways and Landmarks

Sheridan County is accessible via U.S. Route 20, which runs east-west through the county, and Nebraska Highway 87, which provides access to the southern parts of the county. Notable landmarks include the Hudson-Meng Bison Kill Site, an important archaeological site that provides insight into prehistoric life on the Great Plains. The county is also home to the Fort Robinson State Park, a historic site that was once a military outpost and now offers camping, hiking, and horseback riding. The Pine Ridge National Recreation Area provides opportunities for outdoor activities in a scenic and rugged setting.

10. Holt County

County Seat: O’Neill

  • Area: 2,417 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 10,067
  • Area Codes: 402
  • Latitude and Longitude: 42.4567° N, 98.6493° W

Location and History

Holt County is located in north-central Nebraska and was established in 1876. The county was named after Joseph Holt, a U.S. Postmaster General and Secretary of War. O’Neill, the county seat, is known as the “Irish Capital of Nebraska,” reflecting the heritage of its founder, General John O’Neill, an Irish-American soldier and leader. Holt County’s economy is primarily based on agriculture, with cattle ranching and crop production being the main economic activities. The county’s vast plains and fertile soil have made it an important agricultural region in the state.

Major Highways and Landmarks

Holt County is accessible via U.S. Route 20, which runs east-west through the county, and U.S. Route 275, which connects the county to Norfolk and other parts of Nebraska. Notable landmarks include the O’Neill Shamrock, a large shamrock painted in the middle of O’Neill’s main street, symbolizing the town’s Irish heritage. The county is also home to the Holt County Historical Museum, which preserves the history of the region, and the Cowboy Trail, a converted railroad trail that offers scenic views for hikers and cyclists. The annual St. Patrick’s Day celebration in O’Neill is one of the largest in the state and a major cultural event.

List of All Counties in Nebraska Alphabetically

Below please see all Nebraska counties which are listed in alphabetical order.

  1. Adams County, NE
  2. Antelope County, NE
  3. Arthur County, NE
  4. Banner County, NE
  5. Blaine County, NE
  6. Boone County, NE
  7. Box Butte County, NE
  8. Boyd County, NE
  9. Brown County, NE
  10. Buffalo County, NE
  11. Burt County, NE
  12. Butler County, NE
  13. Cass County, NE
  14. Cedar County, NE
  15. Chase County, NE
  16. Cherry County, NE
  17. Cheyenne County, NE
  18. Clay County, NE
  19. Colfax County, NE
  20. Cuming County, NE
  21. Custer County, NE
  22. Dakota County, NE
  23. Dawes County, NE
  24. Dawson County, NE
  25. Deuel County, NE
  26. Dixon County, NE
  27. Dodge County, NE
  28. Douglas County, NE
  29. Dundy County, NE
  30. Fillmore County, NE
  31. Franklin County, NE
  32. Frontier County, NE
  33. Furnas County, NE
  34. Gage County, NE
  35. Garden County, NE
  36. Garfield County, NE
  37. Gosper County, NE
  38. Grant County, NE
  39. Greeley County, NE
  40. Hall County, NE
  41. Hamilton County, NE
  42. Harlan County, NE
  43. Hayes County, NE
  44. Hitchcock County, NE
  45. Holt County, NE
  46. Hooker County, NE
  47. Howard County, NE
  48. Jefferson County, NE
  49. Johnson County, NE
  50. Kearney County, NE
  51. Keith County, NE
  52. Keya Paha County, NE
  53. Kimball County, NE
  54. Knox County, NE
  55. Lancaster County, NE
  56. Lincoln County, NE
  57. Logan County, NE
  58. Loup County, NE
  59. Madison County, NE
  60. McPherson County, NE
  61. Merrick County, NE
  62. Morrill County, NE
  63. Nance County, NE
  64. Nemaha County, NE
  65. Nuckolls County, NE
  66. Otoe County, NE
  67. Pawnee County, NE
  68. Perkins County, NE
  69. Phelps County, NE
  70. Pierce County, NE
  71. Platte County, NE
  72. Polk County, NE
  73. Red Willow County, NE
  74. Richardson County, NE
  75. Rock County, NE
  76. Saline County, NE
  77. Sarpy County, NE
  78. Saunders County, NE
  79. Scotts Bluff County, NE
  80. Seward County, NE
  81. Sheridan County, NE
  82. Sherman County, NE
  83. Sioux County, NE
  84. Stanton County, NE
  85. Thayer County, NE
  86. Thomas County, NE
  87. Thurston County, NE
  88. Valley County, NE
  89. Washington County, NE
  90. Wayne County, NE
  91. Webster County, NE
  92. Wheeler County, NE
  93. York County, NE

Map of Nebraska Counties

Map of Nebraska Counties