Increasing Housing Inventory is a Key Step Toward Growth in York County

Housing is a challenge across the United States, with experts estimating a deficit of 4.7 million homes. Americans need access to enough housing inventory, as well as affordable homes and rental options. York County, Nebraska, isn’t exempt from the national housing crunch. In 2025, the county population grew by 4% and the city population by 2%. While this is positive news and reflects longer-term growth trends, these newly arrived York residents need somewhere to live.

“Housing is an essential part of economic development,” says Lisa Hurley, Executive Director of the York County Development Corporation. “The challenges we face in York County are no different than those in Seattle, Austin, or Miami. Communities of all sizes need more inventory and a range of attainable housing to support growth.”

Fortunately, several projects in York County are in development to provide housing to current and future residents. Here’s how this part of Nebraska is tackling the housing shortage. 

Three Housing Developments Are Under Construction 

There are currently three housing projects in York County that will increase the region's overall inventory. These projects include:

• Countryside Estates: Two single-family homes have been completed as part of a 12-home project. This development is led by Champion Home Builders, Inc., in partnership with Nate Eldred and Nic Sieler of Hillcrest Homes.
• 1901 Investments: This development will add seven homes to Bradshaw, with two ready for touring and one currently ready for purchase. These homes were relocated to new basements and will be completely remodeled. Potential buyers can attend an open house and ribbon-cutting event on Thursday, May 21, to see the properties. 
• The Village of McCool Junction and the City of Henderson have also built new subdivisions with lots for sale.

These housing units are designed to support family units and York professionals. People who want to stay in York County because of the community and opportunities here can find the housing they need. 

YCDC Develops and Shares Housing Assistance Programs 

Economic development teams are rarely involved in land purchases for residential use or in the implementation of housing projects. It is not their role to build houses for residents. However, they are often involved in projects to recruit developers and construction companies to the region in order to attract housing projects.

“Economic developers are connectors,” says Hurley. “We bring people together and create environments for opportunity and growth. We want to prove that York County is a viable choice for new housing projects.”

The team at YCDC also shares housing opportunities and programs for existing properties, including resources for renters. These programs make it easier for people to find housing options or for potential landlords and investors to fix properties. These programs offer alternative ways to increase housing inventory without relying on new construction. 

The Housing Shortage Needs Multi-Faceted Solutions

In the same way that a healthy economy needs diverse industries and business sizes, a stable housing environment needs properties that accommodate a range of budgets and family goals. Not everyone is ready to purchase property or needs a four-bedroom single-family house. Economic development teams need to work with housing authorities and developers to create options for different lifestyles.

“It’s not enough to build new houses; we need to create opportunities for affordable living and support all residents in York County,” says Hurley. “This means supporting young professionals renting apartments for the first time, growing families with babies on the way, families who want to upsize, and senior residents who want to age in place in smaller homes.”

York County is growing as more people discover this beautiful part of Nebraska. Along with creating job opportunities through business expansion and attraction programs, YCDC is working with local leaders to address the housing needs of people eager to call York County home. 

Keep Up With Housing Development in York County

YCDC frequently shares housing updates through its various communication channels. It posts about developments and open houses online, shares programs on social media, and sometimes talks about housing on its 17-County podcast. This is one of the best sources for housing news in York County.

You can also reach out directly if you have any questions about housing in the area. Contact YCDC today about new construction projects, available programs, and the overall plan for the future. Our team is happy to share opportunities and get you the information you need.