Valley

Living in Valley

Valley is a city in western Douglas County, Nebraska, on the far west side of the Omaha metro. It had 3,037 residents in the 2020 census, and the city covers about 6 square miles, a little over 1 square mile of which is water. If you are weighing Valley against homes closer in, our Omaha homes for sale page is a good place to compare.

The town has railroad roots. Valley was laid out in 1864, once it was clear the Union Pacific transcontinental railroad would reach the spot, and it was named for the Platte River valley. Today it is also home to the National Weather Service forecast office that serves eastern Nebraska and southwest Iowa.

Neighborhoods and Lake Living

Water is a big part of what makes Valley different. Several sandpit lakes, created by sand and gravel mining, have been turned into waterfront neighborhoods.

Valley also has a small town center, with the school campus on South Pine Street. Lake communities can have their own rules and fees, so we check those details for any home you are considering.

Getting Around

Highway 275 is the main route through Valley, and Reichmuth Road is another key road in town. Most drivers use Highway 275 and Highway 64 to connect to Maple Street and West Dodge Road heading into Omaha. Neighboring Waterloo sits to the east along the Elkhorn River, and you can learn more on our Waterloo homes for sale page.

Schools

Valley is served by Douglas County West Community Schools, usually called DC West. The district was formed in August 2005 when Valley Public Schools and Waterloo Public Schools merged, and it serves students from preschool through 12th grade. The main campus is at 401 S. Pine Street in Valley. Before the merger, the high school was Valley High School, home of the Valley Terriers. School boundaries can change, so always confirm the district and schools for a specific address.

Things to Do

• Two Rivers State Recreation Area: a Nebraska Game and Parks area next door in Waterloo, with seven fishing lakes, Platte River access, camping, swimming, trails and 10 Union Pacific cabooses turned into cabins.
• Elkhorn Crossing Recreation Area: on Bennington Road in Valley, with camping, fishing and a boat ramp.
• City parks: Valley City Park, Rogert Park, Valley Mini Park and the Joe Roberts Arboretum, plus the Valley swimming pool in summer.
• Twin Rivers YMCA: a community center with a gym, fitness equipment, a pool and child care.

Buying a Home in Valley

Valley gives buyers a mix of in town homes and lake properties at the western edge of the metro. Because lake neighborhoods, flood zones and special districts can vary from street to street, we look up the records for any property you are serious about instead of guessing.

Our team helps buyers compare Valley with nearby areas, so you can weigh schools, commute and lifestyle in one search. If you already own a home and plan to move, start with a free home valuation.

Frequently Asked Questions about Valley

What county is Valley, Nebraska in?

Valley is a city in Douglas County, Nebraska, on the western side of the Omaha metro.

What school district serves Valley?

Valley is served by Douglas County West Community Schools, known as DC West. The district formed in 2005 when Valley Public Schools and Waterloo Public Schools merged, and its main campus is at 401 S. Pine Street in Valley. Always confirm the district for a specific address.

How big is Valley?

Valley had 3,037 residents in the 2020 census. The city covers about 6 square miles, including a little over 1 square mile of water.

Does Valley have lake homes?

Yes. Several sandpit lakes in the Valley area, created by sand and gravel mining, have been turned into waterfront neighborhoods.

How did Valley get its name?

Valley was laid out in 1864, when it was clear the Union Pacific railroad would reach the area, and it was named for the Platte River valley.

Work With the Houses in Omaha Team

Thinking about a move to Valley, or comparing it with homes in Omaha? The Houses in Omaha Team can walk you through the area. Call Trina at (402) 202-1319 or send us a message, and we will help you plan your next step.