Pawnee City, Nebraska, has seen its population decline from 1,280 to 865 over 50 years
Pawnee City, not the fictional town in Parks and Recreation, but a real quaint town in Nebraska, is offering $50,000 in down-payment assistance to new residents who qualify as part of its Vision 2030 plan.
The small city has seen its population decline from 1,280 to 865 over 50 years, according to the civic group Pawnee Bold. It believes the housing initiative would create a “rural renaissance,” especially with remote workers.
Since its launch on March 14, the program has received 115 applications from families, professionals, and retirees.
However, the homes will start at $325,000, above the current $102,705 average home value in Pawnee City, per Zillow estimates. Additionally, qualified new residents must earn less than $69,450 for individuals to $115,100 for six-person households.