Lake Manawa State Park provides boating, swimming, and fishing opportunities along its scenic shoreline. The Tom Hanafan River's Edge Park showcases stunning views of the Omaha skyline and connects to the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge spanning the Missouri River. History comes alive at the Union Pacific Railroad Museum through interactive railroad exhibits, while the unique Squirrel Cage Jail welcomes visitors for tours and ghost hunts. The Hitchcock Nature Center features hiking trails with panoramic views of the Loess Hills.
The Council Bluffs housing market includes approximately 100 homes for sale, with prices ranging from $90,000 to $882,000. The median sale price sits at $225,000, while townhomes command a median price of $275,000. Single family homes have a median price of $227,000, and two bedroom condos typically sell for a median price of $240,000. Downtown Council Bluffs single family homes have a median price of $167,500, while Lake Manawa area homes reach a median of $270,000. The Valley View neighborhood commands a median price of $265,000 for single family homes.
Council Bluffs maintains a cost of living 8.5% below the national average. A family with school age children should aim for a $97,000 annual salary, while renters need approximately $55,000 to live comfortably. The 1.61% property tax rate compares favorably to nearby Omaha at 1.75%. Local restaurants like 712 Eat + Drink serve scratch made recipes, while Boxer Barbeque Co. draws diners with acclaimed barbecue. The commute to Omaha typically takes 10 to 20 minutes via multiple bridge crossings. Two highly rated public schools serve the area: E.A. Kreft Primary School and Lewis Central Senior High School, both earning B+ ratings from Niche.
