$266,206Average Value$176Average Price per Sq Ft8Homes For Sale
The community of Carter Lake isn't far from Downtown Omaha.
Carter Lake lures homebuyers with its namesake fishing lake
In the late 19th century, a dramatic flood carved out a new channel of the Missouri River, leaving behind an oxbow-shaped lake and altering the natural border between Nebraska and Iowa. As a result, Carter Lake is the only Iowa city west of the river. But despite its zip code, the city is technically an Omaha suburb that stretches between Eppley Airfield and the downtown area. Its namesake lake curves around the northern boundaries, surrounded by parks, fairways and fishing spots. Many residents commute to Downtown Omaha and Council Bluffs, but the Prairie Flower Casino provides jobs closer to home.
How the housing market compares to nearby Omaha neighborhoods
Midcentury ranch-style homes line the residential streets, along with New Traditional houses that were added from the late 1990s through the early 2010s. Lot sizes vary but can reach up to a third of an acre, and some properties have lake access with private docks. The city’s median home sale price of $225,000 is lower than Omaha’s median and well below the overall median for Downtown Omaha, where apartments are far more common than single-family homes. Sale prices typically start in the upper $100,000s and climb to the mid-$600,000s, depending on size and location. If you’re looking for lower prices and don’t mind sacrificing direct access to the water, homes in nearby Florence Boulevard and Conestoga Community often sell for less. However, property taxes in Iowa are generally lower than in Nebraska. Depending on the overall cost of the home, that could significantly reduce your monthly costs.
Some homes along Carter Lake have private docks.
Cozy ranch homes can be found throughout Carter Lake.
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Outdoor life revolves around Carter Lake
The city’s namesake oxbow lake shapes most outdoor life here. Anglers can often be seen casting their lines at Mabrey Park, which hosts a youth fishing derby every June. Other lakeside green spaces include:
Levi Carter Park, featuring a playground and splash pad, a boat ramp and athletic facilities
Wavecrest Park, with a sandy swimming beach
Carter Lake Skate Park, where skaters can practice their tricks on ramps, rails and boxes
Shoreline Golf Course, a scenic 18-hole course
Another annual event, Carter Lake Days, is usually held on the last weekend in July. The family-friendly festival features a parade, a vendor fair, live music, a beer garden and fireworks.
Mabrey Park is a great place to go fishing.
Relax by the water at Wavecrest Park.
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Carter Lake offers short commutes, airport access and paved paths
Most residents rely on cars, and the 3-mile drive to Downtown Omaha usually takes less than 10 minutes in regular traffic. The businesses in Midtown Crossing are about 5 miles away, a roughly 15-minute drive. Although not many people rely on public transit around here, Omaha Metro bus routes serve the city, and they’re a more practical choice here than in some other Omaha neighborhoods. On the subject of practicality, Eppley Airfield is less than 2 miles away, making Carter Lake a convenient option for frequent travelers or airline workers. It’s a good spot for pedestrians and cyclists, too: Paved multiuse paths tie into the larger Omaha trail network, and the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge crosses the Missouri River into Council Bluffs a short bike ride away.
Carter Lake Elementary School is centrally located, making it easy for students to get to class.
The city is home to Carter Lake Elementary School
The Council Bluffs Community School District serves Carter Lake students. They’ll typically start at Carter Lake Elementary School, which serves kids from prekindergarten through fifth grade and offers Multilingual Learner and Spanish World Language Immersion programs. Heartland Christian School provides a highly rated private option across the river in Council Bluffs.
Where to eat locally and shop for groceries
Carter Lake isn’t a dining destination, but it does have a few places to grab a bite. Options include:
Vida, a Mexican joint serving tacos, burritos and micheladas
River’s Edge Café, a casual breakfast and burger spot tucked inside Prairie Flower Casino
Sky Bar & Grill, Prairie Flower Casino’s sports bar
There are a couple of convenience stores in town, but you’ll probably have to venture into Council Bluffs or Omaha for bigger shopping trips. Aldi and Baker’s are both nearby, and there’s also a Hy-Vee on the West Broadway commercial corridor in Council Bluffs.
Flood risk is a concern, but airplane noise isn’t usually a problem
Because the lake curves around the city, flood risk can be a factor in some areas. Your lender might require proof of flood insurance if you buy a home here. Some buyers also worry about airplane noise from nearby Eppley, but most locals say it's not a major concern.
Written By
Adrienne Ryan
Photography Contributed By
Seth Johanson
Video By
Jonathan Bradley
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Mark Ciochon,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Carter Lake, IA sell after 29 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in Carter Lake, IA over the last 12 months is $222,500, up 11% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Spacious 4-bedroom, 2-bath home just one block from Carter Lake Elementary! This larger floor plan offers a unique layout unlike most Carter Lake split-foyer homes, with direct access to the main level from the front entry and access to basement at the rear of the home. Offering approximately 1,820 finished sq. ft., the home features new flooring, six recently replaced windows while the others
This beautiful walk-out ranch home offers the perfect combination of comfort, style, and convenience in a quiet location just minutes from downtown Omaha, Eppley Airfield, Council Bluffs, shopping, dining, and major interstate access. Step inside to find the farmhouse feel, inviting living spaces, an open layout ideal for everyday living & entertaining, and a functional kitchen with ample
Seller offering to pay closing costs for FHA, conventional and VA borrowers. Welcome to a new construction townhome in the heart of Carter Lake. Zero entry home that walks into an open living/dining/kitchen on main floor. The second floor has three bedrooms with the primary bedroom having its own bathroom. Home has an attached two car garage. Close to downtown Omaha and minutes to Eppley Airport.
This home offers a recently updated kitchen, AND new roof in 2024. To top it all off, it's nestled on a huge double lot by the lake. Enjoy mountain cabin vibes in the great room, soaring ceilings & skylights. Huge primary bedroom w/ separate entrance, or use this room as a second family room that walks out to the private yard! Plenty of updates throughout! Bask in the summer sun in your huge
Brand new Class-4 impact-resistant roof provides protection against Midwest wind, hail, and severe weather while offering added peace of mind and potential insurance savings. This pre-inspected charming ranch-style home blends inviting curb appeal, welcoming front porch is the perfect place to enjoy your morning coffee or greet guests. Inside, fresh interior paint and updated flooring. Major
Jody SortinoUnited Country Loess Hills Realty & Auction
Welcome to a brand new zero entry townhomes in the heart of Carter Lake. Minutes from downtown Omaha and Eppley Airport. This ranch townhome offers an attached two car garage, walk in primary shower, and open living/kitchen area. Kitchen includes an island for entertaining guests, along with a booth style dining area. Agent has equity.
Rare opportunity to own a lakefront home in an exclusive gated community. Located less than 10 minutes from downtown Omaha and Eppley Airfield, this 1.5-story home offers a unique blend of convenience, privacy, and recreation. Enjoy direct lake access for boating, fishing, jet skiing, paddleboarding, and more. Start your mornings on the deck overlooking the water and spend evenings cruising the
Exceptional commercial development opportunity in Carter Lake featuring four contiguous parcels totaling 11.9 acres, strategically positioned with excellent traffic exposure and accessibility. The property's commercial zoning supports a broad range of permitted uses, including maintenance facilities, utilities, office space, communication services, construction sales, parking structures, and
Step inside to find brand-new flooring throughout, fresh interior paint, new light fixtures, and an abundance of natural light from the new windows. The stunning new kitchen features gorgeous granite countertops, new cabinetry, a new sink, and a full suite of brand-new appliances, creating the perfect space for cooking and entertaining. The completely renovated bathroom offers a fresh, modern
Venecia VargasBetter Homes and Gardens Real Estate The Good Life Group
Step into modern comfort with this almost new manufactured home located in Carter Lake, Iowa. Designed with today's lifestyle in mind, this home features a spacious open-concept floor plan that seamlessly connects the living room, dining area, and kitchen- perfect for entertaining or everyday living. The kitchen boasts a large center island, ample cabinet space, and modern finishes, making it
3 Bedroom, 2 Bathroom Manufactured Home Available in Carter Lake, IA Do not miss this opportunity to live in a beautiful 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom manufactured home in Carter Lake, Iowa. Homes like this do not stay on the market for long. This home features a spacious open floor plan that creates a bright, welcoming living space, perfect for entertaining or simply enjoying everyday life. The
This home is located on a corner lot and includes a detached garage, fenced yard all the way around the property, basement, washer/dryer included and pet friendly!Rent: $1,350.00RENTERS INSURANCE REQUIRED: Peterson Bros Realty Liability to Landlord Insurance(Only Covers Unit): $15.00 OR you can get your own renters insurance policy that covers both your personal belongings and the
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