With its thriving economy and scenic countryside appeal, Valley, Nebraska has developed into one of eastern Nebraska’s most admired locations for small-town living. Yet, despite its growth over the last 20 years, this charming Douglas County town has never lost its beloved “hometown” character. From quaint two-story homes to sprawling acreages to stunning lakeside property, the City of Valley has a wide variety of real estate options for the potential homeowner to choose from.

Named for the nearby Platte River Valley, this picturesque community is bordered by farmland and several impressive sand-bottomed lakes – popular areas for boating, fishing and other traditional water sports. Along with recreational water activities, Valley’s beautiful lakes are home to several popular lakefront communities. Each one of these communities has a large assortment of choices for breathtaking lakeside living and its own distinct personality.

Those communities include:

• Ginger Cove Lake
• Ginger Woods
• Mallard Landing
• Valley Shores
• Timber Lodge
• Timber Shores
• Bluewater

Several prominent manufacturing firms – 3M, Valmont Industries and Midwest Manufactures – are located in Valley. A significant percentage of Valley’s residents are employed with these well-known companies. Other universal occupations for Valley residents include construction, education and farming. Many residents commute to their jobs with several metropolitan areas (Fremont, Omaha and Lincoln) just a short drive away from this area.

While Valley’s population is made up of a wide range of ages, numerous families with young children have chosen to settle in Valley. (The median age of the population is in the mid-40s.)Children of these families typically attend Douglas County West Community Schools (commonly referred to as DC West). DC West is a consolidated school system formed in 2005,between the public-school systems of Valley and neighboring Waterloo, Nebraska. DC West provides a comprehensive education for preschool through 12th grade. The school system has two campuses – preschool and middle school students (5th-8th) attend the Waterloo campus, while elementary (K-4th) and high school students (9th -12th) attend the Valley location. Bus service is provided between the two campuses for parents and students’ convenience. Several well-known colleges and universities are also conveniently located within an hour or more away for students looking to further their education.

Along with the lakeside recreation activities, this delightful community has a substantial arts and entertainment culture. Residents enjoy theatrical presentations and classes at the Elkhorn Valley Community Theatre; the beautiful artwork and classes at The Gallery; and antiquing at Black Horse Antiques. For those who prefer athletics – golfers admire the 18-hole semi-private golf course at the Pines Country Club; and the Twin Rivers YMCA has various activities for all ages to take part in.

Even though Valley is a small town, this rural area has a vibrant community complete with plenty of annual community events to keep residents occupied – from the Valley Veterans BBQ Competition to the Valley Days Celebration to the Valley Car Show. Plus, with three city parks, nearby recreational areas and the Joe Roberts Arboretum – residents of all ages find plenty of entertainment.