Ritzville, Nebraska is a small community in Adams County, Nebraska. Its population was 1,673 in the 2010 census and is estimated to reach 1,641 by 2020. The city was incorporated 142 years ago. It is a farming community with a historic legacy and is a key stop on Interstate 90.
The poverty rate is the percentage of the population living below the poverty line. Lower rates indicate a more affluent community. The rent burden in Ritzville is less than the state's average of 30.0%, and neighboring cities, like Tekoa and Millwood, have rent burdens that are lower than the state average. A full 35% of the population in Ritzville City lives below the poverty line.
In the early nineteenth century, wheat was the town's major crop. More acreage was put into cultivation each year. The town quickly grew to become a commercial and shipping hub. In addition, it was the only town of any size in the county. The city's cultural status took off in 1907, when the Carnegie Library was dedicated. At the dedication, Governor Albert E. Mead gave a speech. The library still serves as the cultural center of Ritzville.
There are 4 bank branches in Ritzville. The city's largest bank is Columbia State Bank. Other banks include U.S. Bank National Association, Wheatland Bank, and U.S. Bank.