$240,518Average Value$148Average Price per Sq Ft12Homes For Sale
Crete’s economy centers on farming, food and education
Crete is a small community less than 30 miles from Lincoln. Many are drawn here for employment at Nestlé Purina, Smithfield Foods, Doane University and Crete Area Medical Center. "It's still a huge farming community as well. So, you have those salt-of-the-earth people there," says broker Nicole Zalesky, who has over 20 years of experience and co-owns Zalesky Realty & Auction. The town was settled as early as 1860, when the Bickle family built their log cabin on the east bank of the Big Blue River. The introduction of the railroad and its local university fast-tracked its evolution. Crete has several registered historic districts, including Doane University and its downtown area, where several buildings are marked by an 1888 embossment.
Doane University campus features historic buildings and green spaces.
Crystal’s Bakery adds local flavor to Crete’s Main Street district.
Farmers market brings fresh produce and local goods to downtown Crete.
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From 1800s charm to character-rich new construction
Home styles span 100 years. "We have your big beautiful two-and-a-half-story historical homes that have been here since the early 1900s to the late 1800s. And then you have your basic ranch-style homes built anywhere from the 1940s to the 1990s," Zalesky says. "And now you're getting more of your newer, character-building [custom] type of homes as well." Burlington Estates is a relatively new addition to the city with a mix of single-family homes and townhouses. The College Hill neighborhood showcases Victorian-style residences, Colonial Revivals, Craftsman bungalows and other classic forms of architecture from Crete’s earliest chapter. Homes closer to town exist on suburban and city-style lots, while those on the outskirts can be on acres. The area's median sales price is around $312,000, higher than the state's figure.
Victorian-style homes and Craftsman bungalows line College Hill neighborhood.
Single-story ranch-style residence reflects Crete’s traditional housing design.
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Families gather at parks for sports, swimming and seasonal events
Tuxedo Park is the largest green space and home to the local fairgrounds, where festivities are held every July. Spanning 96 acres, it's a popular spot for camping along the Blue River and encompasses diverse outdoor recreation. Families cheer from the stands during the season as local leagues play at the park's softball complex and baseball field. Families and their kids gather at the playground on the park's southern side; its northern portion offers a range for trap and skeet shooting. Trails weaving through the park grounds draw skiers during the winter. Other city parks include Wildwood Pool, where people practice their laps and play tennis, and Armory Park, with its soccer and flag football fields. College Heights Country Club features a 9-hole public golf course.
Tuxedo Park sign marks the entrance to the city’s largest park.
Playground at Tuxedo Park offers space for kids to explore.
Armory Park sign welcomes visitors to the sports fields.
Armory Park offers open fields for soccer and flag football.
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A restored theater and casual dining anchor downtown
Crete's historic downtown area showcases Italianate and Art Deco-inspired buildings. A cornerstone of the area is The Isis Theater, which opened in 1926 and debuted fresh renovations in 2024. Today, it's a popular spot to catch a movie, including the occasional free screening. The dining scene is casual. Locals can dine on comfort food at 9th Street Bar and Grill at breakfast, lunch and dinner. Guanajuato Mexican Restaurant is one of several spots to get south-of-the-border fare. Crete Foodmart, Super Latina Market and a meat store specializing in wagyu beef provide grocery options. Retailers include Crete Ace Hardware, New Beginnings Thrift Store and the yarn store Wool & Whimsy.
Isis Theatre stands as a cultural landmark in Crete’s downtown.
Guests enjoy hearty meals inside 9th Street Bar and Grill in downtown Crete.
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Pioneer Days lets students learn in a living history setting
Crete Heritage Society maintains the original Bickle family homestead. An old, one-room schoolhouse is on the grounds. It hosts Pioneer Days annually, where fourth graders gather to learn in a historic setting dressed in old-fashioned garb. "Crete also has a big pumpkin festival in October and Cinco de Mayo is huge here," Zalesky says. "It just seems like they have a little something going on all year." Sunday worship is also an important event. Despite Crete's relatively small size, over a dozen churches are here.
Students can pursue higher education without leaving town
Students attend Crete Public Schools, a small district that participates in school choice. Crete Elementary School covers kindergarten through second grade and earns an A on Niche. Third through fifth graders head to Crete Intermediate School, scoring a B rating. Crete Middle School also gets a B, and Crete High School maintains a B minus. The high school broke ground on a new sports complex in 2025 that will be used by various teams, including football and track. Doane University provides a close-to-home option for higher education, ranking No. 21 for Best Value Schools by U.S. News & World Report.
Crete Elementary School serves students in pre-K through grade 2.
Crete Intermediate School serves grades 3 through 5.
Crete Middle School educates students in grades 6 to 8.
Crete High School serves grades 9 to 12 and has a new sports complex.
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Lincoln is less than 30 miles away via Highway 33
Nebraska Highway 33 passes through Crete, connecting the city to the broader area, including Lincoln, less than 30 miles away. Saline County Area Transit provides public transportation, offering door-to-door services scheduled in advance.
Written By
Kathryn Ashworth
Photography Contributed By
Pasha Chichagov
Video By
Taylor Noll
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
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GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Crete, NE sell after 23 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Crete, NE over the last 12 months is $296,000, up 4% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Value, Value, Value! Experience the perfect blend of architectural integrity and modern refinement in this meticulously maintained ranch. Originally built by a respected local builder for his own family, this residence is a testament to quality craftsmanship, featuring exceptional construction with interior/exterior drain tile and a history of zero water intrusion. The main level offers three
Contract Pending; available for backup offers. This home could be a great fit, if you desire an acreage-like space for in-town living. Nestled on a secluded street, this solidly built, all-brick ranch sits on nearly 3/4 of an acre-offering privacy, room to play, and space to grow. With 4 + 1 bedrooms | 3 bathrooms, there's plenty of room for everyone. You'll appreciate the quality craftsmanship
Seller Financing Available! Butterfly Acres - where building your dream home can come true. No builder attached 3 acres with wide open spaces. 13 miles from Lincoln, located in Lancaster County.
Come Build your Dream Home on 11.76 acres of a few trees and other character. Is off the beaten path but is only a few miles off of pavement. Located just few miles from Crete and minutes from Lincoln and is in Wilber-Clatonia School District.
Build your dream home in one of Crete's newest developments. This lot is a flat townhome lot. It has access to a common area including a pond. This lot is committed to Vermaas Construction, they have multiple floorplans to choose from or bring them your custom design. Call today for a tour of the area and to discuss option. Covenants and HOA information available upon request.
Build your dream home in one of Crete's newest developments! This lot is suitable for a walk-out basement home. It backs up to a wooded area providing extra privacy. Includes access to a common area including a pond. Choose your builder! NO builder restrictions! Call today for a tour of the area and to discuss options. Covenants and HOA information available upon request.
Build your dream home in one of Crete's newest developments. This lot is a walkout townhome lot. It backs to a wooded area and has access to a common area including a pond. This lot is committed to Vermaas Construction, they have multiple floorplans to choose from or bring them your custom design. Call today for a tour of the area and to discuss option. Covenants and HOA information available
This beautifully maintained 3 bedroom, 2 bath home features original woodwork, stunning hardwood floors, updated windows, and newer HVAC, hot water heater, and appliances, all included. Enjoy the inviting covered front porch and spacious back deck perfect for relaxing or entertaining. Situated on a large corner lot with a detached double garage, storage shed, and a cozy cabin with electricity and
Build your dream home in one of Crete's newest developments. This lot is suitable for a daylight basement home. Lot backs to a wooded area for extra privacy and provides for access to common area and pond. Choose your builder!! NO builder restrictions. Call today for a tour of the area and to discuss options. Covenants and HOA information available upon request.
Prime industrial real estate offering exceptional potential for development. This versatile property is zoned for industrial use, making it ideal for warehouses, manufacturing, storage, or future expansion projects. With excellent access and a strategic location, it provides a strong foundation for businesses seeking room to grow. A rare opportunity to secure buildable industrial land in a
Build your dream home in one of Crete's newest developments. This lot is a walk out townhome lot. It backs up to a wooded area and has access to a common area including a pond. This lot is committed to Vermaas Construction, they have multiple floorplans to choose from or bring them your custom design. Call today for a tour of the area and to discuss option. Covenants and HOA information available
This stunning 1.5-story home offers over 3,600 square feet of living space, designed with entertaining and comfort in mind. 3 spacious bedrooms and 4 baths, including a luxurious primary suite. Enjoy multiple family rooms and a versatile loft, perfect for an office or potential 4th bedroom. A formal dining room and eat-in kitchen are ideal for hosting and family meals. Soaring cathedral and 9'
Build your dream home in one of Crete's newest developments. This lot is a flat townhome lot. It has access to a common area including a pond. This lot is committed to Vermaas Construction, they have multiple floorplans to choose from or bring them your custom design. Call today for a tour of the area and to discuss option. Covenants and HOA information available upon request.
Build your dream home in one of Crete's newest developments. This lot is suitable for a walk-out basement home. It backs up to a wooded area and pond for additional privacy. Common area access including a pond. Choose your builder! NO builder restrictions! Call today for a tour of the area and to discuss options. Covenants and HOA information available upon request
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