Nebraska rural residents report declining well-being

The 2026 Nebraska Rural Poll indicates a decline in the perceived well-being of rural residents. According to the study, 47% of respondents believe they are better off than they were five years ago, a decrease from 53% the previous year.

Mental health ratings also saw a downturn. Only 24% of those surveyed described their mental health as excellent, compared to 34% last year. Additionally, the proportion of respondents rating their mental health as ‘only fair’ rose from 13% to 22%.

Feelings of powerlessness have also increased, with 38% of respondents agreeing that life has changed so much that most people are powerless to control their lives, up from a historical average of approximately 31%. Despite these current challenges, long-term optimism remains relatively stable; 44% of respondents believe they will be better off in ten years.