It is bordered by Västmanland to the north, Södermanland to the east, Östergötland to the southeast, Västergötland to the southwest, and Värmland to the northwest.

The traditional provinces of Sweden serve no administrative or political purposes, but are historical and cultural entities.

In the case of Närke, the province makes up the southern part of Örebro County.

Norse mythology mentions three kings of Närke, Nidud, Olof the Sharp-sighted and Sporsnjall.

In Närke, the hundreds were: Football in the province is administered by Örebro Läns Fotbollförbund.