A solid choice for building in Central. Defined zoning, low flood risk, and very affordable land.
๐67/100AcreScore
๐ฐ$4KLand $/acre
๐ $75KHome Value
๐ฅ2,959Population
๐+0.5%Growth (10yr)
๐5%Flood RiskLow
๐ก๏ธCentral NE.ClimateZone 5a
๐๏ธ Can You Build Here?
Sherman County has local zoning regulations. Check with the county building department for specific rules on your parcel. Barndominiums may require conditional use permits in some zones.
Zone
Min Lot
Barndo OK?
Residential
Varies
โ ๏ธ Conditional
Agricultural
None
โ Yes
Commercial
Varies
โ No
Sherman County has local zoning. Contact the county building department for specific regulations.
๐ What Permits Do You Need?
Most states allow owner-builders to act as their own general contractor for personal residences. Check Nebraska requirements โ licensed subs are typically needed for electrical, plumbing, and HVAC.
Required Permits
โข Building permit (residential)
โข Septic permit (if no public sewer)
โข Electrical permit
โข Plumbing permit
Permit Office
Sherman County Building Department
Loup City, NE
Contact county clerk for current hours and requirements
๐ What's the Flood & Soil Risk?
Very low flood risk. Only 5% of Sherman County land falls within FEMA-designated flood zones โ well below the national average.
5%
In Flood Zone
Good
Soil Drainage
Good
Septic Viability
Source: FEMA National Flood Hazard Layer, USDA Web Soil Survey
๐ฐ What Does It Cost?
Extremely affordable. Median land prices around $3,500 per acre make Sherman County one of the most budget-friendly options in Nebraska.
$4K
Median $/acre
$75K
Median Home Value
$120โ200
Build Cost $/sqft
1.5%
Property Tax Rate
Source: U.S. Census Bureau ACS 2024, Sherman County Assessor
๐๏ธ Why People Love Living Here
Sherman County sits in the heart of Central. Loup City is 5 min away. Nebraska has a state income tax โ factor that into your cost-of-living calculations.
๐๏ธ
Affordable Land
Median land at $3,500/acre means you can buy more, build bigger, and still stay under budget.
๐
Established Community
Zoning provides predictability โ you know what your neighbors can and can't build. Good for long-term property value.
At a Glance
Population2,959
10-Year Growth+0.5%
County SeatLoup City
State Income TaxYes
ClimateCentral NE. (Zone 5a)
How Close Is Everything?
Loup City5 min
Central Nebraska Regional Airport60 min
Austinvaries
๐ง Utilities & Infrastructure
Most rural Sherman County land uses well water and septic systems. Municipal utilities are available near Loup City. Check with local utility providers for your specific parcel.
Electric ProviderLocal Co-op / TXU
WaterWell or Municipal
SewerSeptic (most rural)
InternetVaries by location
Cell CoverageVariable
Natural GasPropane common in rural areas
๐ฆ Financing & Incentives
Sherman County qualifies for USDA Rural Development loans โ zero-down-payment financing for eligible buyers in most areas.
New listings, zoning changes, and builder availability โ delivered to your inbox.
โ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I build a barndominium in Sherman County?
Check with the Sherman County Building Department for specific zoning rules on your parcel. Some zones allow barndominiums outright, others may require conditional use permits.
How much does land cost in Sherman County?
Median price is approximately $3,500 per acre, though prices vary by location, road access, and improvements. USDA Rural Development loans may be available for eligible buyers.
Is Sherman County eligible for USDA Rural Development loans?
Yes โ most of Sherman County qualifies for USDA Rural Development programs, including zero-down-payment home loans for eligible buyers.
What is the property tax rate in Sherman County?
The effective property tax rate is approximately 1.5%. Check with the county assessor for the most current rates and any available homestead exemptions.
Do I need a licensed contractor to build in Sherman County?
Most states allow owner-builders to act as their own general contractor for personal residences, though requirements vary by state and county. In Nebraska, check local building codes for specific licensing requirements. You'll typically need licensed professionals for electrical, plumbing, and HVAC work.