Did you know that Omaha itself ranks #35 in the best places to live in the United States for 2022?! With great access to highly ranked schools, high employment rates, fantastic shopping, dining, and entertainment options plus a nature lovers’ paradise of outdoor activities and attractions…Omaha has become a mecca for newcomers. The real estate market here is bustling as well. But you won’t want to wait to find your new home. More homes have become available, so choices are becoming more plentiful, but with interest rates on the rise, now is the time to lock in on your choice.

With Omaha as its hub, the surrounding communities also offer great choices for families to find their ideal homes and neighborhoods. The following 5 cities top the list this year as the best places to call HOME around Omaha.

#5- Bennington

Small town living at its best along the Missouri River at the border of Iowa. Bennington offers wonderful schools touting academic excellence, a phenomenal city parks system filled with green space, playgrounds, and sports courts & baseball complex, and of course the Bennington Rail Museum. There are ample dining, shopping, and entertainment options as well. Search all Homes for Sale in Bennington.

#4- LaVista

Welcome to the friendly, small town with all the big city amenities! LaVista is situated on the northern edge of Sarpy County, in the Greater Omaha area. This lovely community features well-kept homes on beautiful tree-lined streets, with diverse and high-quality housing options. Home to many corporate entities, employment rates are high. There are 17 parks in LaVista, including a 62-acre sports complex with a swimming pool, community center- with youth & senior recreation programs, and a library. Schools in LaVista are second to none and part of the Papillion LaVista Community Schools.  If shopping, dining, and entertainment are concerns, you’ll be happy to know that Omaha is at your fingertips and offers top-of-the-line experiences in every category. Search all Homes for Sale in LaVista

#3- Chalco

A mid-sized city, part of Omaha metro along the eastern border of Nebraska and the Iowa border running along the Missouri River. This city seamlessly blends old and new with a beautiful historic district along the waterfront while also implementing new high-rise residential developments. The downtown area is modern with amazing development along the former rail yards. Since this is another backyard community to Omaha, all the shopping, dining, and entertainment options you’d like to see are truly within a short drive to the city but Chalco itself offers plenty of options as well. There are plenty of places for kids to be active outdoors, great schools, and a safe community for growing families makes this a perfect choice for your next home.  Search all Homes for Sale in Chalco

#2- Gretna

Known as a peaceful, charming, and scenic community along the Missouri River, this highly sought-after city- part of the Omaha Metro area, will steal your heart. With lots of green space and parks available, you’ll have ample space to relive the stress of the day on walking, biking, or hiking trails, visit community parks, or just meander the countryside. This community is known for its wonderful family festivals and community involvement. The Fall is especially magical with Vala’s Pumpkin Patch- you won’t want to miss that! Excellent schools and community facilities, friendly neighbors, and just a short drive to the great amenities of Omaha.  This is a growing community where home values are rising, and investment opportunities are endless.  Search all Homes for Sale in Gretna

#1- Papillion

Looking for a place to live that offers year-round outdoor recreation? You’ve found it in Papillion…and so much more! Adding “ambiance and charm” along with continual progress to an already breathtaking landscape, Papillion can give you many reasons why you should call this community your NEW HOME! Home to Walnut Creek Recreation Area and Sumter Amphitheater along with Papio Fun Park and Aquatic Center- entertainment and fun are always at your fingertips. Papillion also takes great pride in their community festivals and events, one of which is Papillion Days- filled with dancing, crafts, music, a parade, carnival, and even fireworks! Their Shadow Lake Town Center is home to 70+ stores, dining, and service providers.  Families with children will be delighted with A+ schools courtesy of the Papillion LaVista Community Schools always boasting academic excellence. Truly the perfect place for your next HOME.  Search all Homes in Papillion here.

Wherever you choose to build your lasting memories, I’m here to help. As an associate real estate broker and agent, my years of experience and expertise in the Omaha and Southeastern Iowa real estate market will prove invaluable to you in this ever-changing and competitive market.

Let’s set up a time to discuss your questions and goals and develop your plan to meet them.