Cities and Towns in Lancaster County, Nebraska

Founded in 1855, Lancaster County is one of 93 counties in the state of Nebraska. Historically, Lancaster County was formed from Cass and Pierce Counties. The city of Lincoln is the county seat. With FIPS code of 109, Lancaster County has a population of 324,514 and area of 839 square miles (2,173 km²).

List of all cities in Lancaster County, NE alphabetically

City/Town	Postal Code	Area Code
Agnew, NE	68428	402
Air Park, NE	68524	402
Bennet, NE	68317	402
Bethany, NE	68505	402
Centerville, NE	68404	402
Cheney, NE	68526	402
Davey, NE	68336	402
Denton, NE	68339	402
Emerald, NE	68528	402
Firth, NE	68358	402
Hallam, NE	68368	402
Havelock, NE	68529	402
Hickman, NE	68372	402
Holland, NE	68372	402
Lincoln, NE	68501	402
	68502	402
	68503	402
	68504	402
	68505	402
	68506	402
	68507	402
	68508	402
	68509	402
	68510	402
	68512	402
	68514	402
	68516	402
	68517	402
	68520	402
	68521	402
	68522	402
	68523	402
	68524	402
	68526	402
	68527	402
	68528	402
	68529	402
	68531	402
	68532	402
	68542	402
	68583	402
	68588	402
Malcolm, NE	68402	402
Martell, NE	68404	402
Panama, NE	68419	402
Prairie Home, NE	68527	402
Princeton, NE	68404	402
Raymond, NE	68428	402
Roca, NE	68430	402
Rokeby, NE	68523	402
Saltillo, NE	68430	402
Sprague, NE	68438	402
State House, NE	68509	402
University of Nebraska, NE	68588	402
University of Nebraska E Campus, NE	68583	402
University Place, NE	68504	402
Walton, NE	68461	402
Waverly, NE	68462	402

Major Cities and Towns in Lancaster County, Nebraska

Lincoln, Nebraska

Location and History

Lincoln, the county seat of Lancaster County, is located in southeastern Nebraska and serves as the state capital. The city was founded in 1856 and named after President Abraham Lincoln. It became the state capital in 1867, shortly after Nebraska achieved statehood. Originally settled as a railroad town, Lincoln quickly grew in prominence due to its central location along major transportation routes, including the Burlington and Missouri River Railroad. The city’s history is deeply tied to the development of the railroad, which facilitated commerce and the movement of people. As Nebraska’s state capital, Lincoln became the political, cultural, and educational heart of the state. The University of Nebraska, founded in 1869, played a significant role in shaping the city’s development, transforming it into a center of higher education and research. Over the years, Lincoln expanded rapidly, attracting a diverse population and becoming a hub for government, education, healthcare, and commerce. Today, Lincoln is known for its vibrant arts scene, strong economy, and high quality of life.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Lincoln is home to the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, a major public research university that contributes to the city’s educational and economic vitality. The city also has a well-regarded public school system, including several high schools such as Lincoln High School, East High School, and Northeast High School. Lincoln has a rich cultural landscape, with landmarks such as the Nebraska State Capitol, a stunning example of art deco architecture, and the Sunken Gardens, a tranquil urban park. The Sheldon Museum of Art and the Haymarket District, a historic area full of shops and restaurants, add to the city’s vibrant atmosphere. Lincoln also hosts numerous events, including the annual Nebraska State Fair and the Lincoln Calling Music Festival. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy the city’s extensive park system, which includes Antelope Park, Wilderness Park, and the Oak Lake Park, offering opportunities for hiking, biking, and picnicking.

• Area: 93.52 sq mi
• Population: 292,657 (2020 census)
• Zip Codes: 68501-68588
• Latitude: 40.8136° N
• Longitude: 96.7026° W

Waverly, Nebraska

Location and History

Waverly is located just northeast of Lincoln, Nebraska, and was established in the late 1800s. Originally known as “Waverly Station,” the town grew as a railroad stop for travelers heading to and from Lincoln. It was named after the Waverley novels by Sir Walter Scott, reflecting the early town’s aspiration to be a culturally significant community. Waverly’s economy initially focused on agriculture, with local farms producing grain and livestock. The arrival of the Burlington and Missouri Railroad in the late 1800s helped establish Waverly as a small trading hub for the surrounding rural areas. Over time, Waverly transitioned from an agricultural economy to a suburban one, as its proximity to Lincoln made it an attractive location for people seeking a quieter lifestyle while remaining close to urban amenities. Today, Waverly is a growing residential community, with many residents commuting to Lincoln for work.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Waverly is served by the Waverly Public Schools district, which includes Waverly High School. The district is known for its academic excellence and sports programs, particularly in basketball and football. A prominent landmark in Waverly is the Waverly Community Center, which hosts social events and provides recreational facilities for residents. The town also features several local parks, including Waverly Park, where residents can enjoy picnicking, playgrounds, and sports facilities. One of the most scenic spots in the area is the nearby Branched Oak Lake, which offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and camping. Waverly is a close-knit community that hosts events like the Waverly Harvest Festival, which celebrates the town’s agricultural roots with food, entertainment, and a parade. The town’s suburban growth, combined with its rural charm, makes it an appealing place for families and individuals seeking a peaceful lifestyle near Lincoln.

• Area: 1.74 sq mi
• Population: 4,400 (2020 census)
• Zip Codes: 68462
• Latitude: 40.9079° N
• Longitude: 96.5742° W

Hickman, Nebraska

Location and History

Hickman is a village located just southwest of Lincoln, in Lancaster County. It was founded in 1886 and named after the Hickman family, who were early settlers in the area. Initially, Hickman was a small agricultural community, and its location near the Little Salt Creek made it an ideal spot for farming. The village grew steadily through the early 20th century, thanks in part to the railroad, which provided transportation for goods and helped boost the local economy. In the 1990s and 2000s, Hickman experienced significant growth as suburban development from Lincoln spread southward. The town remains primarily residential, though it maintains strong ties to agriculture, with local farms producing a variety of crops. Hickman is a quiet, family-friendly community that attracts people seeking a slower pace of life while remaining close to Lincoln’s urban amenities.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Hickman is served by the Norris School District, which includes Norris High School, a well-regarded institution known for its academic achievements and athletic programs. One of Hickman’s main landmarks is the Hickman Heritage Center, which highlights the village’s history through exhibits and community programs. The village also boasts several local parks, such as the Hickman Park and the adjacent Little Salt Creek, which offer opportunities for hiking, picnicking, and fishing. Residents and visitors can enjoy a variety of recreational activities, including sports leagues, community events, and outdoor festivals. The town also celebrates its heritage with the annual Hickman Summer Festival, which features live music, food vendors, and games. Hickman’s combination of small-town charm and suburban growth makes it an appealing place to live for those looking for easy access to Lincoln while enjoying a quieter lifestyle.

• Area: 1.02 sq mi
• Population: 2,900 (2020 census)
• Zip Codes: 68372
• Latitude: 40.6994° N
• Longitude: 96.6785° W

Bennett, Nebraska

Location and History

Bennett is a small village located southeast of Lincoln, Nebraska, and was founded in 1887. It was originally a farming community that relied heavily on the nearby South Salt Creek for irrigation and transportation. The village grew as a result of the Burlington and Missouri River Railroad, which helped transport goods and people to and from Lincoln. Despite its early growth, Bennett has remained a quiet, rural community throughout the 20th century, with agriculture continuing to be the primary economic activity. Over time, Bennett has become a bedroom community for Lincoln, with many residents commuting to the city for work. The village has maintained its small-town charm, with a close-knit population and a strong sense of community pride.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Bennett is served by the Waverly Public Schools district, with students attending the Waverly schools. The community has limited public amenities but is known for its historic downtown area and local businesses. Bennett’s most significant landmark is the historic Bennett Depot, a preserved railroad station that symbolizes the town’s past as a railroad stop. Bennett is also home to the Bennett Community Park, which provides a space for recreational activities, including baseball, picnics, and family gatherings. The nearby South Salt Creek offers opportunities for fishing and wildlife observation. While Bennett does not host large festivals, it holds small community events, including holiday celebrations and local gatherings that help foster a sense of togetherness. Its proximity to Lincoln makes Bennett a peaceful place to live with easy access to urban amenities.

• Area: 0.27 sq mi
• Population: 510 (2020 census)
• Zip Codes: 68317
• Latitude: 40.6146° N
• Longitude: 96.4825° W