Omaha, Nebraska is a vibrant and burgeoning Midwestern city that is in the process of an enormous renovation. The city has committed over two billion dollars to build a showcase riverfront, gentrify the downtown area, and build world-class facilities. As a classic Midwestern river city, Omaha has a perfect foundation upon which to build. This cash influx and commitment to rebirth comes as the city approaches its sesquicentennial, or 150th birthday. As this project nears completion, many believe that the city's commitment to bring Omaha into the millennium will no doubt create a city that may one day rival Chicago for the title of the best of the Midwest.

What you can expect from Omaha is typical of the Midwest quality of life. You'll find easy access to the arts and cultural events, a low crime rate, solid public school system, and residents who are diverse, educated, and very down to earth. This combination has resulted in numerous accolades for the city. Redbook Magazine named Omaha to its list of Ten Best Cities for Working Mothers. Parenting Magazine called it one of the Top Ten Cities in the Nation to Raise a Family. Ladies' Home Journal named it to its Ten Best Big Cities for Women list. The prestigious Forbes Magazine recently called Omaha one of the Top Fifteen Regions in the Nation. And a unique accolade, "E" The Environmental Magazine called Omaha one of the Top Eco-Cities in the Nation, based on the city's air and water quality, availability of open spaces, and population stability.

With all of this to offer, Omaha supports a population of just under 400,000 residents, which represents a healthy five percent growth since the year 2000. The average age of an Omaha resident is 34 years old, with an annual household income of approximately $46,000 per year. While homes in Omaha continue to appreciate at a steady level, this is still an affordable housing market. Most buyers will be able to find something in their price range, from a cozy one-bedroom condominium to a sprawling executive estate. The median home value in the area, as listed on the 2000 Census, was $145,650.

Omaha benefits from having diverse economic streams, and this is a good indicator that a potential blip in one sector would not disrupt the local economy. The majority of Omaha residents, nearly thirteen percent, are employed in the retail trade. There is a tie for second place between the sectors of wholesale trade and finance/insurance, each employing about ten percent of residents. Omaha's strong workforce continues to draw Fortune 500 firms to the area. Some of the biggest employers here are ConAgra Foods, Mutual of Omaha Companies, Union Pacific, Berkshire Hathaway and Peter Kiewit and Sons. It is worth noting that thirty five other Fortune 500 firms maintain plants or service centers in the area. Additionally, Omaha is the headquarters of nearly thirty insurance companies and dozens of international firms.

Omaha residents have a variety of options for recreation. The city has approved public art in the metro areas as well as in open spaces, making a casual stroll through the city like a free museum ticket. The trails at Fontenelle Forest are also a popular place for walking. And this city has a number of good restaurants and bistros, with foods ranging from all-American comfort food to cutting-edge cuisine. There area a number of microbreweries in this town, and above all, a chance to indulge in some of that famous Omaha beef. Residents here also have numerous opportunities to see various live theater, music, dance and off-Broadway productions. And the city regularly hosts festivals that honor seasonal events, cultural offerings, different styles of music, art, and cuisine.

Omaha is a city that provides a family-friendly backdrop to everyday living. And its two billion dollar facelift is giving locals even more to be proud of. If you are thinking about moving, consider a move to Omaha, Nebraska! To find out more, request our free relocation packet today.