Southwest

Tap into the spirit of the West with unforgettable recreation across Southwest Nebraska. In North Platte, home of legendary showman William “Buffalo Bill” Cody, the past meets present with a vibrant creative community, public art, and live entertainment. Catch a play at the community playhouse, groove at the annual Nebraskaland Days, or explore the historic Canteen District for hand-dipped ice cream and local finds.

Celebrate cowboy culture at the Ogallala Round-Up Rodeo or at McCook’s Kiplinger Arena, a premier venue drawing over 30,000 rodeo lovers each year. Head to Front Street’s Cowboy Museum, then grab a seat at the Crystal Palace Revue — the longest-running summer stock theater in Nebraska. And for outdoor lovers, Ogallala opens the door to Lake McConaughy, Nebraska’s largest lake with white sand beaches and water sports galore.

Hungry yet? End the day feasting at a local steakhouse favorite like Coppermill in McCook or Ole’s Big Game in Paxton, where big flavors meet big stories. Or bring the whole family, including the dog, to Pals Brewing Company. Whether you’re spending the day on the lake or watching bucking broncos, Nebraska’s southwest region is an endless land of rugged entertainment.

Southwest Nebraska is where thousands realize their true career potential — with balance and real growth opportunity.

Looking to work with an agricultural company that makes the safety of its employees a top priority? Sustainable Beef in North Platte is changing the food production industry with its state-of-the-art angus beef production facility in North Platte. In logistics, Union Pacific’s Bailey Yard (the largest rail yard in the world) is always on the lookout for skilled workers in roles like CDL drivers, diesel mechanics, and yard managers.

Healthcare is another major industry here. Community Hospital in McCook and other regional health centers employ thousands in roles like registered nurse, radiology tech, and medical billing specialist. And if you’re in education, Mid-Plains Community College offers full- and part-time employment opportunities.

You’ll also find jobs in finance, from loan officers and tellers to investment analysts, thanks to the region’s many small banks and financial firms. And in agriculture, large livestock ranches and agricultural businesses are hiring ranch hands, equipment operators, agtech specialists, and animal health professionals.

No matter your background, there’s a career path waiting in Southwest Nebraska — and a quality life to match.

Are you looking for open spaces and small town living that feels like it’s on the cusp of the next big Gold Rush? In Southwest Nebraska, you’ll find high-quality healthcare, forward-thinking schools, and safe neighborhoods — all wrapped in a cost of living that’s 18% lower than the national average. Enjoy more value in your rent or mortgage while experiencing four distinct seasons, with comfortable summers and winters that don’t overstay their welcome.

Ogallala and North Platte offer some of the best southwest public schools in Nebraska, while Mid-Plains Community College provides more than 50 academic programs to help you pivot, grow or launch your next career.

Healthcare here goes beyond basic care. Community Hospital in McCook serves more than 30,000 people in Western Nebraska and northwest Kansas with advanced medical services. Ogallala Community Hospital provides comprehensive care close to home, and North Platte’s Great Plains Health is staffed by specialists across 30+ fields, offering top-tier treatment with a local touch.

Life in southwest Nebraska is refreshingly laid-back, low pretense, and genuinely committed to its community values. Invite a relaxed pace into your life while enjoying all the quality amenities you could ever need.