The fastest-growing city in the fastest-growing county in Nebraska
Gretna underscores its motto “The Great Life” with growth, proximity to Omaha and broad redevelopment plans. Located in Sarpy County, near the Elkhorn River, it is the fastest-growing city in Nebraska's fastest-growing county. With views of the Elkhorn Valley and its green hills, Gretna maintains a small-town feel.
The city of about 5,000 is a suburb of Omaha. Newcomers to Gretna can tap into the larger city’s Fortune 500 employers, award-winning dining scene and cultural destinations. New schools, housing, parks, and the proposed $3.2 billion Nebraska Crossing Expansion project are visible examples of growth in Gretna. “The expansion project is definitely something we’re looking forward to,” says Karen Jennings, a Realtor with BHHS Ambassador Real Estate for more than 15 years. “The goal is to bring new retail, new businesses and tourism, but it will likely bring the same to Omaha, which is positive for the region as a whole.”
The water tower is a marker for the south side of Gretna and can be seen for miles.
Gretna has small town vibes while being part of the greater Omaha area.
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Midcentury classics, brand-new suburban homes and estates with acreage
Compared to Sarpy County’s median home price of $350,250 and the national median of about $420,000, the median single-family home price in Gretna is $425,000. About 400 homes sold in the city in 2024, from three-bedroom townhouses and midcentury ranch-style homes starting around $200,000 to five-bedroom estates on several acres that have recently sold for about $2,000,000. Toward the south end of town, Pebblebrooke is a planned community with homes ranging between $320,000 and $470,000.
Larger lots are available on the edge of Gretna for residents.
Mid-century modern ranch homes are common in Gretna.
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The largest Hy Vee grocery and a future mixed-use project will change Gretna
The largest Hy Vee grocery store in the region opened in 2024 with 135,000 square feet, or 3.5 acres. The modern grocer offers an upscale giant deli and a Wahlburgers restaurant. Nebraska Crossing, an outlet mall, was approved in-concept by the city to expand into a much larger retail, entertainment, housing and sports hub. The $3.2 billion, 10-year project is expected to drive up property values and transform the city into a regional entertainment destination with 1,000 hotel beds and 3,000 apartment units as well as townhouses and condos. City voters narrowly approved the measure in early 2025, paving the way for revenue collection and reinvestment, though questions of implementation remain.
The largest Hy-Vee can be found near Gretna.
If you live in Gretna you likely love your Nebraska Football. Go Big Red.
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Gretna School District recently opened two new schools
The city is zoned for the rapidly growing Gretna School district, which has a B-plus grade from Niche. In response to recent growth, Cedar Hollow Elementary opened in 2023, and Gretna East High opened in 2024. “I’m confident there will be another high school to come,” says Jennings, “and I wouldn’t doubt that we’ll see more elementary schools as well.” The Nebraska Department of Education ranks the district “excellent,” the highest of four possible classifications.
Gretna High School serves South Sarpy County and the surrounding areas.
Squire John Thomas Elementary School serves students in PK through K-6.
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Gretna Crossing is the city’s newest park
The city manages eight parks and community-centered events throughout the year, including Paws at the Park, for dog lovers and their pups. Gretna Crossing Park opened in 2023 and attracts young families and outdoor athletes with a fishing pond, an 18-hole disc golf course, sports fields and an amphitheater. It also includes a playground and a new water park with a lazy river central feature.
Gretna Crossing Park is a great place to enjoy the outdoors.
Enjoy the outdoors with your furry friend at the dog park in Gretna Crossing Park.
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Despite growth, low crime rates are a source of pride in Gretna
The Sarpy County Sheriff’s Department is Gretna's law enforcement agency. It does not currently publish crime statistics specific to the city, but the overall rate of violent crimes is 1.022 reports per 1,000 residents, while the overall property crime rate is 8.369 per 1,000. Considering only crime rates, Gretna is safer than the Nebraska state average and the national average. Flooding from the Platte River and the Elkhorn River can occur during any season, but the risk is statistically low, according to First Street Technologies. In spring and summer, tornadoes pose a threat.
Limited public transportation but easy access to Omaha
“We’re growing fast in Gretna, and our highways must expand to accommodate that. Right now, another exit off I-80 is in the works,” says Jennings of a project expected to launch in early 2025 and be complete by winter. Travelers along Gretna highways see new development and construction in almost every direction. Interstate 80 connects Omaha to Lincoln and flows through Gretna, making commutes of 30 and 40 minutes, respectively, easy, with ordinarily mild traffic. Highway 370 connects to Papillion, Bellevue, and Offut Air Force Base. Highway 6 connects to Elkhorn in west Omaha. The closest commercial airport to Gretna is Eppley Airfield in east Omaha.
Interstate 80 and Highway 370 are major transportation routes near Gretna.
Interstate 80 provides a quick route for Gretna residents to travel.
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Written By
Sarah Albiston
Photography Contributed By
Kevin Franz
Video By
Jonathan Bradley
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Sherryl Longacre,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
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On average, homes in Gretna, NE sell after 72 days on the market compared to the national average of 49 days. The median sale price for homes in Gretna, NE over the last 12 months is $413,332, down 2% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Welcome to your dream home in one of Gretna's newest subdivision! This beautiful 4-bed, 3-bath ranch offers modern living with a prime by the new Crossing City Park. Step into an open-concept with abundant natural light and stylish finishes. The kitchen boasts stainless steel appliances, reverse osmosis water system, and ample counter space. Outside, the white PVC privacy fence surrounds a
Beautifully updated 4 bed, 3 bath ranch in desirable Plum Creek! This home has been meticulously maintained with fresh paint throughout—walls, ceilings, trim, doors, and cabinets. Exterior updates include painted garage/front doors and shed, refreshed landscaping, tree trimming, and fencing/shed repairs. Inside features new door hardware, electronic blinds, updated fixtures, and fire safety
This Bellbrook home with an open floor plan has stainless steel appliances, quartz countertops, wood floor, birch cabinets, and walk in pantry. The spacious primary bedroom includes walk in closet and a full primary bath including a whirlpool tub and shower. The main floor includes an office with French doors and can easily be converted into a fourth bedroom. The large rec room includes new
Embrace the opportunity to build your dream home in the Deer Hollow estate development, located west of Gretna. This walkout lot, situated in a tranquil setting, is non-builder attached and offers direct access to green space and a beautiful tree line. With gas, city water and sewer connections already in place, there's no need to worry about a propane tank, septic systems or wells. Take
Embrace the opportunity to build your dream home in the Deer Hollow estate development, located west of Gretna. This walkout lot, situated in a tranquil setting, is non-builder attached and offers direct access to green space and a beautiful tree line. With gas, city water and sewer connections already in place, there's no need to worry about a propane tank, septic systems or wells. Take
Seize the chance to create your dream home in the secluded Deer Hollow estate development, located west of Gretna. This desirable flat lot, offering endless possibilities, is non-builder attached and awaits your personal touch. Benefit from the convenience of gas, city water and sewer connections, eliminating the need for a propane tank, septic system or well. Take advantage of the freedom to add
Welcome to Gretna Landing, where modern luxury meets small-town charm in one of Nebraska's fastest-growing communities. Opening Summer 2025, this premier apartment community offers thoughtfully designed homes that blend sophistication with comfort. Step into your new apartment featuring soaring 9' ceilings, well-equipped chef-style kitchens with gleaming stainless steel appliances, and elegant
Incredible ranch in highly desirable area. Big primary suite has walk in closet and updated bathroom with double vanity sinks. Home welcomes you with cozy corner fireplace and vaulted ceilings. Home features beautiful laminate floorings and gorgeous tile. Stainless steel appliances. The basement is unfinished and has much potential for activities or storage. Large covered deck. Big fenced
On top of your monthly rent, our Apartminium Package includes water, sewer, trash, valet trash, pet rent, garage rent, high speed internet & access to our state-of-the-art amenities. Salute, Bella, Grassetto, & Terrazza floor plans at $250/month. Villa, Fiore, Torre, Chalet, Amalfi, Vinicola, & Prato floor plans are $300/month.
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