Waterloo

Living in Waterloo

Waterloo is a small community on the Elkhorn River in western Douglas County, Nebraska. It had 935 residents in the 2020 census. If you are comparing small town living with homes closer in, our Omaha homes for sale page is a good place to start.

Waterloo grew up with the railroad. The Union Pacific designated a stop here in 1870, and Elias Kelsey and John Logan founded the town in 1883 after two earlier attempts at incorporation failed. The town was briefly abandoned after the Great Flood of 1881. The name may honor the Battle of Waterloo or Kelsey's birthplace of Waterloo, New York.

Where Waterloo Is

The town itself sits between the Elkhorn River and Highway 275, with Highway 64 and Blondo Street nearby. Many people also think of the land between the Platte River and the Elkhorn River as part of the Waterloo area. Highways 275, 64 and 6 are the main roads people use to get in and out of town. Valley is Waterloo's neighbor to the west, and you can learn more on our Valley homes for sale page.

Schools

Waterloo is part of Douglas County West Community Schools, or DC West. The district formed in August 2005 when Waterloo Public Schools and Valley Public Schools merged. The main campus, including the high school, is at 401 S. Pine Street in Valley, and the district also has a middle school building in Waterloo. School boundaries can change, so always confirm the district and schools for a specific address.

Things to Do

• Two Rivers State Recreation Area: one of the most popular recreation areas in Nebraska, at 27702 F Street in Waterloo, with seven fishing lakes, Platte River access, camping, kayaking, swimming, equestrian trails and 10 Union Pacific cabooses refurbished into cabins.
• Two rivers close by: the Elkhorn River runs along the town, and the Platte River is to the southwest.
• Waterloo Public Library: the town's public library, with its own long local history.

Buying a Home in Waterloo

Waterloo offers a small town setting with river and recreation access on the western edge of the metro. Parts of the area sit near the rivers, and the town publishes floodplain information, so we look up flood zone and county records for any property you are serious about instead of guessing.

Our team helps buyers compare Waterloo 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 Waterloo

What county is Waterloo, Nebraska in?

Waterloo is in Douglas County, Nebraska, on the Elkhorn River west of Omaha.

How did Waterloo get its name?

Waterloo was founded in 1883 by Elias Kelsey and John Logan. The name may honor the Battle of Waterloo or Kelsey's birthplace of Waterloo, New York.

What school district serves Waterloo?

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

What is there to do near Waterloo?

Two Rivers State Recreation Area is in Waterloo, with seven fishing lakes, Platte River access, camping, swimming, trails and caboose cabins. The Elkhorn River also runs along the town.

Work With the Houses in Omaha Team

Thinking about a move to Waterloo, 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.