Nebraska Leading the Nation: Ranked #3 for Strong Families

Nebraska has just been recognized as one of the top three states in the nation for families, ranking #3 in the newly released Family Structure Index. The index analyzed demographic and fertility data to measure key family structure trends across the United States.

Strong families are the foundation of strong communities and the future of our state and nation. Nebraska’s ranking is a testament to our values and our state’s commitment to marriage, family, and the well-being of children.

The Family Structure Index highlights the critical role of strong marriages and stable family environments for the well-being of children and societal health. While Nebraska’s high ranking reflects our state’s national leadership in prioritizing marriage and family values, there is still much work to be done. 

• • 62.3% of adults ages 25 to 54 in Nebraska are married.
  • Nebraska has a 1.94 fertility rate, one of the highest in the nation.
  • 58.8% of children ages 15 to 17 live with their married birth or adoptive parents.

Nebraska follows Utah (#1) and Idaho (#2) in the index ranking, with neighboring states South Dakota and Wyoming completing the top five. This ranking reaffirms the importance of our work to advocate for pro-family policies, oppose legislation that undermines marriage, and partner with churches to celebrate God’s design for marriage and advance a culture of family, freedom, and life in our state.

Strong families don’t happen by accident—they require intentionality, support, and policies that promote marriage and family stability. Visit NFA’s 2025 Bill Tracker for a list of proposed legislation that will impact families and parental rights. Together, we can continue leading the nation by strengthening Nebraska’s foundation for future generations.

The Family Structure Index was developed by Brad Wilcox, Professor of Sociology and Director of the National Marriage Project of the University of Virginia, in partnership with our sister organization in Ohio, The Center for Christian Virtue, and The Institute for Family Studies. To learn more and view the full report, visit CCV.org/FamilyIndex.