Start Fresh in the Midwest - 20 Things to Know About Living in Omaha, Nebraska

Living in Omaha, Nebraska, may seem quaint to out-of-state coastals looking from the outside. But as the largest city in Nebraska, it’s far from that. National and international giants like Mutual of Omaha and Berkshire Hathaway call it home, as do 1.5 million people in its metro area. Perched on the Missouri River, Omaha offers its residents a low-key metropolitan lifestyle with plenty of access to the outdoors.

We’ll cover everything you need to know about living in Omaha, Nebraska, from the cost of living, the pros and cons of living in Nebraska, the best places to live, and even the top restaurants in town.

Omaha at a Glance

• Opposite of Council Bluffs, Iowa, the city of Omaha is situated on the west bank of the Missouri River, and is a part of Douglas County.
• Omaha was first founded in 1854, and coined the nickname of a “gateway to the West.” (Sorry, St. Louis)
• Omaha has an approximate population of 477,000 and takes up close to 143 square miles in land area.
• The median age in Omaha is 36 years old.

Living in Omaha, Nebraska, means getting the best of big city amenities combined with the feel of a close-knit community. And the views aren’t bad, either. 
(Source: Visit Omaha via Facebook)

1. Big City Perks Meet an Affordable Lifestyle in Omaha

Is it expensive to live in Omaha? Not really. With a cost of living index of 90.8, the cost of living is slightly above the rest of the state, but 9.2 percent lower than the national average. So, if you’re moving from a city like Minneapolis — where the cost of living index is 7.2 percent above the national average — you may find your dollar going further than before. 

Some of the main cost of living factors that go into Omaha’s affordable lifestyle include housing, utilities, and transportation, with housing and transportation in particular much lower than the U.S. average. 

According to the MIT Living Wage calculator, a family of four in Omaha with two working adults needs to earn about $111,000 annually before taxes to meet basic needs. For a single adult living alone — like a single young professional or retiree — that number moves down to $46,000 annually before taxes.

So, what is a good salary in Omaha? You can figure it out by using the 50/30/20 rule: 50 percent of your salary should go to your needs like housing and transportation; 30 percent to “wants” like entertainment and hobbies; and 20 percent toward paying off debt, building your savings, or investing. Using this calculation, a family of four with two working parents would need closer to $222,000 annually before taxes, and a single adult would need $92,000 annually before taxes.

2. There are Pros and Cons of Living in Omaha, Nebraska

Is Omaha, Nebraska, a good place to live? It is if you want a family-friendly city that’s easy to navigate and filled with stuff to do. As is the case with every place, though, there are pros and cons of living in Nebraska. Here are some of the most notable ones.

Pro: You Get to Experience “Midwestern Nice” in Person

People throughout the Midwest are known for their friendliness and hospitality. Because of the city’s tight-knit community in particular, it’s never a challenge to talk to new people and make some friends while living in Omaha, Nebraska.

Con: Winter Conditions Are Harsh 

The good thing for those living in Omaha, Nebraska, is that the city experiences each of the four seasons. What are Omaha winters like? Cold and somewhat harsh. Temperatures may regularly drop below 10 degrees Fahrenheit, and the roads can get quite icy. 

Pro: Life in Omaha, Nebraska, Is Family-Friendly

Is Omaha a good place to live with a family? Yes! According to WalletHub, the city of Omaha is one of the top 25 places in the U.S. to raise a family. This is due to the great local public school systems, affordable neighborhoods, and fun things to do nearby. 

Con: Omaha Has a Limited Nightlife Scene

Omaha offers a variety of entertainment; however, those who enjoy the nightlife scene may feel like the city is lacking in that aspect. Theaters, local events, and music venues are some of the main entertainment options found throughout the city instead of clubs and dance halls.

Pro: Getting Around Omaha Is Easy

You’ll need a car to get around, but living in Omaha, Nebraska, does mean enjoying a few more walkable areas than other similarly sized cities. You can park downtown and walk from shop to shop, but getting groceries, commuting, and your daily errands will require a set of wheels. 

Con: Property Taxes Are High

This may be surprising. Nebraska has some of the highest property taxes in the country, ranked fourth in the nation. This is balanced by comparatively low home prices, but you may find yourself paying a similar amount with taxes and fees tacked on top.

Pro: There’s Always Something To Do

No matter if you’re single, raising a family, or retired, there are plenty of fun things to do local to Omaha. The Henry Doorly Zoo is very popular among kids, while the Joslyn Art Museum and Omaha Fashion Week attract people of all ages.

Con: Crime Rates Are a Concern 

Is Omaha, Nebraska, safe? As is the case with many larger cities, the answer isn’t clear-cut. With around a one in 24 chance of being a victim of either property or violent crime, certain parts of Omaha are not always the safest, such as Aksarben South and Florence. Violent crime rates are among the highest in the nation, with a roughly 1 in 220 chance of becoming a victim. Property crime rates are higher than violent crime rates, with roughly a 1 in 27 chance. 

There are lots of affordable housing options and architectural styles in Omaha.
(Source: Richland Homes via Facebook)

3. Omaha’s Housing Market Is Affordable

Housing prices are one of Omaha’s most affordable living perks, as the average home price of $293,800 is much lower compared to the U.S. average of $369,100. 

Ever since Omaha was first founded in the mid-1800s, the area has evolved into a thriving midwestern city full of distinct neighborhoods with beautiful historic home styles. Georgian/Colonial, Tudor, American Craftsman, Ranch, and Queen Anne Revival are some of the city’s most unique yet gorgeous styles.

4. There Are Lots of Reasonable Renting Options in Omaha

Studio and one-bedroom apartments are always one of the most sensible options for young professionals moving to the city for work, and Omaha offers very affordable rates that might allow you to work a little extra space and additional comfort into your budget.  With an average apartment size of just over 900 square feet, the average rent in Omaha is close to $1,300 for a one-bedroom.

Not only does life in Omaha, Nebraska, come with fantastic public schools, but there are quality higher educational opportunities as well.
(Source: Creighton University via Facebook)

• Clarkson College
• College of St. Mary
• Metro Community College
• Nebraska Methodist

8. You Can Still Watch Sports in Omaha — Even if There Aren’t Many Traditional Professional Teams

Even though Omaha isn't famous for its professional sports teams, there are plenty of events that fans can attend that will satisfy even the most ardent sports fans. You can watch some NCAA basketball at the CHI Health Center and support the Creighton Men's Basketball team, catch a glimpse of future stars in the MLB at Werner Park, or go to a soccer match and support the Union Omaha. You can also watch a hockey game and get to see the UNO Mavericks at Baxter Arena.

And every year, Omaha hosts the baseball College World Series, where the best college baseball teams from around the country travel to the city and determine the national champion. Those two weeks in the early summer bring the city to life. 

Like getting out there, staying active, and playing sports rather than just sitting back and watching? The local Omaha Sports Complex is an indoor turf facility that hosts a plethora of sports for people of all ages. 

9. Omaha Experiences the Best (and Worst) of All Four Seasons

Living in Omaha, Nebraska, provides you with the opportunity to experience each of the four seasons, which you can’t always get in other parts of the country. Summer has the warmest weather, with temperatures that typically remain in the 80s during the day and drop to the 60s at night. 

In the springtime, the average temperature of 63 degrees is a bit lower than in the summertime, with an average low of around 40 degrees. Fall weather has high temperatures in the mid-30s and lows in the mid-teens. Winters can be brutal, with temperatures dropping into the mid-teens and approximately 28 inches of snowfall taking place from December to February.

10. Omaha Crime Rates Are High

The crime rate in Omaha is among the highest in the country, with a rate of 42 per 1,000 residents. It's one of the highest crime rates in the nation among large cities and small towns, with a one in 24 chance that someone will become a victim of some type of crime.

11. Low Unemployment Rates Match Many Job Opportunities

Omaha has a very low unemployment rate of just 3.3 percent, primarily due to the high number of established companies offering job opportunities in the area.

Fortune 500 and 1,000 companies like ConAgra Brands, Union Pacific, and Kiewit are always available options for employment in Omaha. Warren Buffett and his massive real estate conglomerate, Berkshire Hathaway, are headquartered in Omaha, along with several tech companies like Buildertrend and Hudl. Omaha is also home to the First National Bank of Omaha, which is the largest privately owned bank in the state.

12. Omaha Has Several Standout Hospitals

The city of Omaha is known for its top-notch healthcare facilities, as it is home to the headquarters of CHI Health, a leading provider of quality care throughout the state of Nebraska. Healthcare professionals preparing to work in Omaha can also enjoy a variety of great amenities, such as excellent medical education and top notch research facilities.

In addition to CHI Health, Omaha is home to other top medical facilities in the region, such as the Children's Hospital and Medical Center and the Boys Town National Research Hospital, which have been dedicated to providing the best possible care for children. The Methodist Women's Hospital is also known for its standout services to women's health.

The Joslyn Art Museum is Nebraska's largest art museum, known for its impressive collections of European, American, and Native American art.
(Source: Joslyn Art Museum via Facebook)

13. Omaha Has a Unique Arts and Culture Scene

Through its various museums, theaters, and music venues, Omaha is proud to show off its unique culture at every corner. Admire works of art from around the world at the Joslyn Art Museum, or visit the Durham Museum for a look at train cars from the 1930s and ’40s, as well as a replica grocery store that dates back to 1915.

Bluebarn Theatre is the favorite local hotspot to watch both national and local plays, and you can even catch a thrilling performance at the local Opera or the Omaha Symphony at the Holland Performing Arts Center.

14. Foodies Are Spoiled Rotten in Omaha

The restaurant scene in Omaha has been growing constantly over the past couple of years, and the city is now an underrated foodie destination. Begin your day with a variety of creative dishes like the Meathead Benny or cinnamon roll pancakes at Early Bird, or if you're feeling lunch instead, head to the award-winning burger joint Stella's Bar & Grill or Yoshitomo for sushi. 

One of the best places to eat dinner in Omaha is Dante, where you can enjoy a variety of classic Italian dishes such as the spaghetti carbonara or the rigatoni bolognese. For the whole family, try the Fat Tony or the Burrata Baller at Virtuoso Pizzeria.  

15. Omaha Is the Steak Capital of Nebraska

Omaha is Nebraska’s steak capital, as it’s home to one of the country's largest producers of beef, Omaha Steaks. Since 1917, this institution has been serving up ribeyes, porterhouses, and other cuts of meat to hungry locals.

Omaha's best steakhouses can prepare your favorite cuts of meat and do the cooking for you whenever you feel like going out to eat. You will have to try the famous Trail Boss Prime Rib or the Whiskey Filet at The Drover, and you can also enjoy a scrumptious bone-in ribeye at Spencer's for Steaks and Chops. 

16. Local Breweries Will Not Leave You Disappointed 

Although Omaha doesn't have a lot of history as a beer destination, it has recently become a great place to drink beer as there has been an influx of new breweries in recent years. Some popular spots include:

• Kros Strain Brewing: Enjoy a variety of activities such as cornhole, giant Yahtzee, and Chippo golf while sampling Kros Strain Brewing's rotating selection of beer.
• Brickway Brewery & Distillery: The Brickway Brewery & Distillery patio is the ideal location to enjoy a beautiful day with a variety of beverages, such as Coffee Vanilla Stout.
• Omaha Beer Week: Try different breweries' beers all at once during Omaha's Beer Week. This event is an annual winter festival that features food-pairing parties, bus tours, and festivals.

17. The Old Market Has Everything You Need in One Place

Old Market is located in downtown Omaha and is an exciting location to visit that features several historic buildings and a variety of local restaurants, bars, and other unique shops. For example, you can find retro candies and other sweets at places like Hollywood Candy, or try duck fries and Cassoulet at Le Bouillon for a taste of France.

The Old Market's Passageway Gallery features a variety of local art and jewelry. You can also visit Homer's Music & Gifts to find used DVDs, records, and CDs.

The Omaha Farmers Market is held here every weekend morning from June to October, featuring various fruits and vegetables, dairy products, and pastries. 

Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium features Desert Dome — the world's largest indoor desert.
(Source: Visit Omaha via Facebook)

18. Omaha’s Zoo Experience Is Unlike Any Other

The Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium in Omaha features over thirty-five thousand animals, and it's one of the largest zoos in the world. It spans more than 160 acres, and it features the world's largest indoor desert and the Suzanne & Walter Scott Aquarium. Guests can also explore a tunnel that lets them swim with sharks, sea turtles, or fish. You'll also have the opportunity to spot different species of birds and animals as you explore the Lied Jungle or get up close and personal with the massive primates in the Hubbard Valley.

19. There Are Tons of Fun Things To Do in Omaha, Nebraska

The fun events held throughout the year in Omaha are diverse, with plenty of ways to keep people of all interests entertained.

• Maha Festival: The Maha Festival is a four-day event that features music, comedy, and poetry readings
• Taste of Omaha: Taste of Omaha is a local event that features samples from various restaurants, as well as live music. You can also watch some of the area's best chefs compete.
• Omaha Fashion Week: One of the largest events in the country dedicated to fashion is the Omaha Fashion Week, which takes place every spring and fall.
• Omaha River City Rodeo: The Omaha River City Rodeo is a fun and adventure-filled event that features barrel racing, bronco riding, and steer wrestling.
• Oktoberfest: At Oktoberfest, enjoy live music, dancing, and cold beer in the Bier Garden.

20. And, There Are Also Plenty of Free Things To Do in Omaha, Nebraska

In addition to all of the fun events that can be found local to Omaha, there are a variety of other ways for people of all ages to have access to entertainment without a cost while living in Omaha, Nebraska.

• RiverFront: Bridges Omaha’s Old Market and North Downtown, and features three parks encompassing over 70 acres that offer beautiful landscapes, city views, and fun recreational activities.
• Hot Shops Art Center: The galleries of the Hot Shops Art Center are free to the public, with over 70 artists working in hot shops like glass blowing, pottery, bronze casting, and blacksmithing. 
• Live music: From July through September you can find jazz, soul/funk, latin, and other types of music when you visit Turner Park.

Moving to Omaha? PODS has flexible moving and storage options so you can plan your move according to your needs.

What To Know Before Moving to Omaha? Have PODS in Your Corner.

While it might be easy to find your dream Omaha home, actually getting there is the challenging part. With a portable moving container from PODS, you can load all of your belongings into the container while it’s conveniently located in your driveway. And, one month’s storage is built into the cost of every move so there’s no need to feel rushed.

They can deliver a container right to your driveway, and will even connect you with local packing and loading services if you need help with the heavy lifting. You can also keep your moving container in a PODS Storage Center until you're ready for the big move. 

If you’ve decided that living in Omaha, Nebraska, is right for you, visit PODS online for a free local moving quote or call 877-350-7637 for long-distance moving. It’s time to make moving to Omaha a reality.

Editor’s note: For ease of reading, monthly rental prices were rounded to the nearest $25 and home values were rounded to the nearest $100.