Podcast
Business Advantages
Why York County Wins: Business Advantages That Drive Results
York County combines workforce access, central location, low-cost public power, and strong infrastructure to support manufacturing, logistics, and agribusiness operations.
York County offers:
- Access to a 318,000+ regional workforce
- 40 manufacturers | ~1,000 jobs | 318,000 labor shed
- Reach to 90% of the U.S. within two days
- Low-cost, reliable public power
- Central U.S. location at I-80 & Highway 81
- A pro-business, partnership-driven environment
Workforce & Labor Access
Access to a Regional Workforce of 318,000+
York County combines a strong local workforce with access to a regional labor shed of more than 318,000 workers. The community also serves as a net importer of labor, with over 40% of the workforce commuting into York County daily—expanding the available talent pool for employers.
Employers benefit from a workforce with deep roots in manufacturing, agriculture, and logistics. People in our region have experience in manufacturing, agriculture, healthcare, business and logistics environments.
Central U.S. Location & Market Access
Logistics & Transportation Infrastructure
Built for Efficient Movement of Goods
York County is positioned along one of the busiest transportation corridors in North America, with:
- Direct access to Interstate 80 (east/west) and U.S. Highway 81 (north/south)
- Rail service via BNSF
- Proximity to major logistics hubs in Lincoln and Omaha
Nebraska’s transportation ecosystem includes over 11,500 trucking companies, including two of the nation’s top 10 carriers.
Market Access
Reach 90% of the U.S. Within Two Days
Located at the intersection of Interstate 80 and U.S. Highway 81, York County offers unmatched access to national markets. Companies can reach 90% of the continental United States within two days by truck, supporting efficient distribution and reduced transportation costs.
York County Transportation & Logistics Map
Competitive Cost Structure
Cost Advantages That Improve Your Bottom Line
Businesses in York County benefit from:
- Low cost of electricity through Nebraska’s 100% public power system
- No inventory tax
- Competitive labor costs
- Low congestion and efficient operating environment
- York County’s coordinated approach between local leadership, utilities, and partners helps companies move from site selection to operation efficiently.
These advantages combine to reduce operating costs and improve long-term profitability.
Utilities
Public Power
Nebraska is the only state in the nation with a 100% publicly owned power system, resulting in some of the lowest electric rates in the country. York County’s strong utility partnerships ensure reliable, cost-effective service for energy-intensive operations.
Education & Workforce Pipeline System
Education and Training That Support Industry
York County offers strong K–12 education systems and access to higher education and workforce training programs. York University and regional higher educational partners provide a pipeline of talent, while Southeast Community College York Regional Learning Center support customized training and up-skilling opportunities. The Learning Center will be relocated to the York Regional Workforce Development Center once it is built, providing on-going training to both regional high school students and adult learners.
York Regional Workforce Development Center
Foreign Trade Zone Access
Access to Foreign Trade Zones
Companies in York County can leverage Foreign Trade Zones in Lincoln (#59) and Omaha (#19), both within 90 minutes, allowing for deferred or reduced customs duties and improved cash flow.
Pro-Business Environment
Nebraska is a right-to-work state with low levels of unionization, providing flexibility for employers. York County’s business community is collaborative and solution-oriented, with strong partnerships between industry, local leadership, and economic development organizations.