Artificial intelligence use doubles in rural Nebraska, poll shows
Lincoln, Nebraska, Oct. 28, 2026 — The latest results from the 2026 Nebraska Rural Poll show that most rural Nebraskans have used artificial intelligence tools — a sharp increase since the poll first asked about AI in 2024. However, many are still wary of AI’s reliability.
Fifty-five percent of rural Nebraskans surveyed have used any AI tool — up from 27% in 2024. Certain groups are more likely than others to have used the tools. At least three-quarters of respondents ages 19 to 39 have used them, compared to just 23% of those 65 and older. Other groups most likely to have used the tools include those with higher education levels or household incomes and women.
“The rapid growth in AI use shows that AI is becoming part of everyday life for many rural Nebraskans,” said Heather Akin, associate professor of agricultural and environmental sciences communication at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln. “As AI continues to evolve, it’s important that rural residents have opportunities to explore its uses, recognize its limitations and make informed decisions about when to use it. By supporting access and literacy about AI, Nebraskans can be more prepared to navigate this evolving technology.”
Generative AI uses machine learning and deep learning models to create new content — such as text, images, audio, videos or code — in response to what users ask. Examples include ChatGPT, Gemini and DALL-E.
Respondents to the Nebraska Rural Poll — conducted annually by Rural Prosperity Nebraska with funding from Nebraska Extension — were asked how often they use generative AI to explore, get advice or learn more about various topics. Although most respondents report using AI tools, the majority report never using them to learn about any of the individual topics listed. Just over one in 10 say they often or frequently use generative AI to learn more about: education and skill development (16%), topics that impact them or their family (14%), and science and technology (12%).
Respondents were also asked how interested they are in learning more about different aspects of AI. Many rural Nebraskans surveyed are somewhat or extremely interested in learning about the following: how to protect their privacy when using generative AI (45%), how to evaluate response accuracy (36%), how it can be biased (33%) and how to use it ethically (28%).
“The interest rural Nebraskans show in learning about privacy, accuracy and bias shows that they want to understand not just what AI can do, but how to use it responsibly,” said Mary Emery, director of Rural Prosperity Nebraska. “If we can provide accessible learning opportunities, Nebraskans can build confidence in these tools and make informed decisions about when and how AI can best serve their needs.”
The “Artificial Intelligence” report and its implications for rural Nebraska will be highlighted during a Rural Poll webinar at noon CST Nov. 18. Register here. The full report can be found on the Nebraska Rural Poll website.
The 2026 Nebraska Rural Poll marks the 31st year of tracking rural Nebraskans’ perceptions about policy and quality of life. It is the largest and longest-running poll of its kind. Questionnaires were mailed in April and May to nearly 6,900 Nebraska households, with 881 households from 86 of the state’s 93 counties responding. The poll carries a margin of error of plus or minus 3%. Current and past reports are available here.