Nebraska Border
Crofton, NE
Crofton is a city in Knox County, Nebraska, with a 2020 Census population of 756 (est. 902 ACS 2024, 920 Data Commons 2023). Located 16 miles southwest of Yankton, South Dakota (18-20 minute drive via NE-12/SD-52), it's a small rural community in northeast Nebraska.
Housing Market
Crofton median home value $282,694 (up 4.8% YoY Zillow 2026), median sale $32.5K last month (down 81.4% YoY Redfin, small sample). Typical: single-family ranches/split-levels on 0.2-1 acre lots; ZIP 68730 median sale $322.5K ($135/sq ft). Vs Yankton $241K median, Crofton similar/higher for available stock; low inventory (few listings).
Schools
Crofton Community Schools (PK-12, 366 students, 12:1 ratio) is Knox County's largest district, covering 175 sq mi. 67% math proficient, 57% reading (above NE state avgs ~50-55%), B+ facilities. St. Rose of Lima Catholic (1-8, 110 students, 10 teachers).
Economy
Local employers small: Kayton International (12 farm machinery), People's Grocery (11), West-Hodson Lumber (9). Agriculture dominant; many commute to Yankton (18 min) for Avera/prison/school jobs. Stable rural economy, low turnover.
Lifestyle
Daily: People's Grocery main store; dining CJ's at the Lake (20 min), local cafes. Healthcare: Crofton Clinic basic (Creighton Health van to Yankton 18 min); events senior center, community club. Quiet farming town, annual visits/festivals.
Why Buyers Consider It
Buyers seek affordability (similar $280K to Yankton $241K), larger land (1+ acres), quiet rural life vs Yankton bustle. Lewis & Clark Lake 20-30 min (NE-12/SD-52); Nebraska property taxes lower (1.36% vs SD 1.22%) but no SD no-income-tax edge. Drawback: fewer amenities, tiny pop (756).
Connection to Yankton
Crofton residents shop Hy-Vee/Walmart Yankton (18 min), healthcare Avera Sacred Heart/prison jobs, entertainment/lake rec. Broadway Chrysler/Yankton employers list Crofton commutes; van service medical.
Frequently Asked
Crofton-Yankton commute?
16 miles, 18-20 min NE-12/SD-52.
Taxes NE vs SD?
NE property 1.36% effective, income tax; SD no income tax, property 1.22%.
Lake access?
20-30 min to Lewis & Clark ramps.
Interested in Crofton, NE?
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