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Valley

Valley

$519,795 Average Value
$268 Average Price per Sq Ft
25 Homes For Sale

Valley offers lakeside living and small-town vibes west of Omaha

Valley is a small Nebraska city bordered by the Platte River. While it’s considered a suburb of Omaha, it’s well beyond the western outskirts, with local businesses and highly rated schools that give it a distinct small-town character. Many neighborhoods center on private recreational lakes that offer sandy beaches and fishing and boating opportunities. Beyond the lakes, public parks and seasonal events bring the community together.

There are several private lakes for boating and fishing in the Valley area.
There are several private lakes for boating and fishing in the Valley area.
Valley is a small Nebraska town with big charm.
Valley is a small Nebraska town with big charm.
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Housing options range from starter homes to lakefront estates

Valley’s housing market consists mainly of single-family homes. Some Nationals and bungalows date to the early 1900s, but midcentury ranch-style homes are also common, and there's some newer construction in the mix as well. The median home sale price is $800,000, and prices usually range from the mid-$100,000s to the lower $1 millions. Luxury lakefront homes outside the city boundaries can fetch prices in the upper $1 millions. Many lakeside communities are governed by homeowners associations that maintain common amenities and enforce neighborhood covenants. Residents may be subject to rules regarding property modifications, lake access, boating and other recreational activities. The lakes usually become more crowded with boats, jet skis and swimmers during summer.

Ranch-style homes offer space and simplicity.
Ranch-style homes offer space and simplicity.
Modern homes blend style with functionality.
Modern homes blend style with functionality.
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Students thrive at DC West High School, known for academics and athletics.
Students thrive at DC West High School, known for academics and athletics.

Public schools are within walking distance of many homes

The Douglas County West Community Schools district serves local families. All three of its schools are within walking or biking distance of many homes in the main residential area. Douglas County West High School is highly rated and allows students to earn college credit through its dual enrollment program with the University of Nebraska Omaha.

What to expect from the different parts of Valley

Prospective buyers are often curious about the different sections of Valley and what they have to offer. Let’s take a closer look:

  • Valley Shores: a lake community adjacent to The Pines Country Club and golf course
  • Bluewater: a luxury lakeside development with extensive shore access and custom-built homes
  • Central Valley: best for budget-conscious buyers who want access to schools, parks and local businesses
Valley Shores lies to the north of the town center, while several other lakefront properties are west of the city. Buyers looking for lake access might appreciate Valley Shores’ combination of waterfront living and proximity to schools, parks and restaurants.

Valley residents enjoy quick access to Omaha’s downtown parks, museums and entertainment.
Valley residents enjoy quick access to Omaha’s downtown parks, museums and entertainment.

The commute to Downtown Omaha takes about 30 minutes

U.S. Route 275 runs directly through Valley and provides a straightforward connection to the greater Omaha region. Nebraska Highway 64 also passes through, offering another route for regional travel. Downtown Omaha is about 30 miles away, a drive that usually takes around half an hour. Health care is available closer to home at Methodist Women’s Hospital and CHI Lakeside, both within roughly 10 to 15 miles.

Local parks and family-friendly events bring the community together

Even if you don’t live on one of the lakes, Valley offers plenty of opportunities to get outside. At Valley City Park, you’ll find a public swimming pool, sports courts, a baseball field, a dog park and wide grassy expanses dotted with shade trees. Pavilions and picnic areas make it a popular spot for parties and reunions. East of town, Platte River Landing Park has a boat ramp and riverside walking paths. On Thursday evenings throughout the summer, Quasar Drive-In Theater hosts “Classics With a Cause,” bringing classic films to the outdoor big screen. But the signature event is Valley Days in August. The four-day celebration features a barbecue competition, a car show, kids’ activities, live music and a parade.

Valley City Park includes a large playground that's perfect for kids and families.
Valley City Park includes a large playground that's perfect for kids and families.
Enjoy a day of fishing and boating at the Platte River Landing Park.
Enjoy a day of fishing and boating at the Platte River Landing Park.
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Where Valley residents go for groceries and dining out

Valley has a handful of local restaurants, with more options in neighboring towns like Waterloo. Highlights include:

  • The Cottage Cup, a coffee shop serving fresh pastries and light fare
  • Con Amor Latin Kitchen, putting creative twists on traditional flavors
  • Gambino’s Pizza, a regional chain with classic and specialty pies available for delivery and carry-out
  • Spruce Street Tavern, a popular spot for pub grub, cold beer and live music
  • Salted Edge, a modern kitchen and bar with handcrafted cocktails and lake views in nearby Waterloo
There’s a small collection of local shops in town, too, including Sapphire Blue Gifts & More, which carries home goods, apparel, accessories and seasonal items. Longtime staple Dick’s Valley Market closed its doors in 2024, but many residents head to Omaha for grocery shopping and additional retail options. Fremont, about 12 miles north, provides another alternative for shopping, dining and everyday services.

Con Amor is a Valley dinner spot offering great food and atmosphere.
Con Amor is a Valley dinner spot offering great food and atmosphere.
Cool off with a cold drink at Spruce Street Tavern, a Valley favorite.
Cool off with a cold drink at Spruce Street Tavern, a Valley favorite.
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Comparing Valley to other western Omaha suburbs

When asked why someone might choose Valley over Omaha, Sallie Elliott has a theory. “It’s small-town living, with less traffic and lower property taxes than Omaha,” says the Realtor with Berkshire Hathaway Ambassador Real Estate, who’s been selling in the area since 2008. But how does it compare to nearby suburbs with lower median home sale prices? Waterloo, the next city over, is closer to Omaha, but it doesn’t have the network of private lake communities that sets Valley apart. If outdoor activities are a priority, you might consider Bennington, which offers access to Prairie View Lake & Recreation Area. Meanwhile, Elkhorn is known for its highly rated school district and newer suburban development, making it a magnet for families.

Adrienne Ryan
Written By
Adrienne Ryan
Kevin Franz
Photography Contributed By
Kevin Franz
Mary Desmond
Video By
Mary Desmond

Interested in learning more about homes in this area? Reach out to Sarah Lynch, an experienced agent in this area.

Agents Specializing in Valley, NE

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Schools

Source:
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. View GreatSchools Rating Methodology

Parks in this Area

Area Facts

Number of Homes
920
Number of Homes for Sale
25
Median Year Built
1973
Months of Supply
3.80
Average Single Family Home Size Sq Ft
2,063
Above the national average
1,934
Average Townhouse Size Sq Ft
2,095
Average 2 Bedroom Size Sq Ft
1,610
Median Lot Size Sq Ft
10,454

Open Houses

Homes for Sale

Homes for Rent

Distribution of Home Values

Source: Public Records

Average Home Value





Source: Public Records

Property Mix - Square Feet

Rental Home Trends

Number of Homes for Rent
3
Median Rent
$2,000
Median Single Family Home Rent
$1,875
Median 3 Bedroom Single Family Home Rent
$1,875
Median Townhouse Rent
$3,000
Median 3 Bedroom Townhouse Rent
$3,000

Weather

Annual Precipitation
34''
Average Winter Low Temperature
16°F
Average Summer High Temperature
86°F
Annual Snowfall
22''

Area Factors

Fairly bikeable

Bikeability®

50 / 100

Somewhat walkable

Walkability®

20 / 100
Source: Local Logic
Sources: Local Logic

Local Logic measures the walkability, access to public transit and bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.

Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
Valley