As with any city, Omaha has an array of pros and cons when it comes to living in the Gateway to the West. Whether you’ve called the area home for decades or you’re considering a move in the new year, you’re likely looking to get in on the up-and-coming neighborhoods around town. Not only can this be an investment that proves successful in the long run, but it can also provide you with an abundance of community engagement, activities, and more as these neighborhoods continue to flourish and thrive. Omaha is home to a diverse selection of residents, including young professionals, families, retirees, and everybody in between! See which area neighborhood is best suited toward your goals and priorities, such as walkability, local amenities, and even just the general “vibe” of the area.
Dundee
Established in the late 19th century, Dundee has become one of Omaha’s most beloved neighborhoods. Despite being an established neighborhood, Dundee has continued to evolve over the years — maintaining and increasing its status as a vibrant and desirable area to call home. The emerging dining scene has added fresh appeal for many and the neighborhood’s walkability is a highly attractive feature to many. Visitors and residents alike quickly fall in love with the tree-lined streets and the preserved historic homes that are full of character. Dundee offers a timeless appeal that attracts buyers from all ages, backgrounds, and professions.
The neighborhood is steeped in historical lore, including its claim to fame as being the site of an early WWII bombing. These days, Dundee is a thriving hub for dining, shopping, and entertainment. The main strip is home to popular area restaurants, craft beer spots, coffee shops and cafes, and a selection of one-of-a-kind shopping boutiques. Serving as both a gathering place for residents and tourists alike, Dundee’s atmosphere can be described as both lively and relaxed. Dundee’s culinary excellence includes crave-worthy food from Avoli Osteria, Amsterdam Falafel & Kabob, and coal-fire pizza from Pitch Pizzeria. Living in Dundee means never sacrificing flavor when you dine out, so if you consider yourself a “foodie,” moving to Dundee may be the perfect spot to call home. Dundee also provides convenient access to downtown, midtown, and major highways.
Millard
Millard is located in southwest Omaha and has been a popular suburban area for some time, though can still be considered an up-and-coming spot for the region. Despite not experiencing rapid revitalization, Millard has continued to expand with steady growth and moderate development year over year. The neighborhood offers residents several things, namely suburban comfort, family-friendly amenities, and adequate proximity to all of the urban conveniences that can be found in Omaha. Not only is Millard an attractive option for families with young children, but professionals and retirees also find Millard to be a great home base. Developments in Millard over the years have included an expansion of housing, retail centers, and schools — which have worked in unison to increase the area’s overall appeal. The school district is regarded positively among families, which is a major draw for those looking to raise children in the area.
Another one of Millard’s draws is that the area features ample access to green spaces, including local parks and recreational facilities such as Zorinsky Lake. The park has 250+ acres, including two playgrounds, sports facilities, and hiking and bicycling paths. Millard also boasts a strong community spirit, which many visitors cite from the moment that they arrive. From local events throughout the year, including parades and farmers markets, to festivals and countless opportunities to make lasting relationships with neighbors and fellow community members — those who value close community ties may find just that in Millard.
Little Bohemia
Little Bohemia has been undergoing a dynamic revival. This under-the-radar gem was once a quiet enclave that has been transformed into a cultural hotspot within Omaha and has attracted a variety of new residents. Now marked by its eclectic mix of businesses, cafes, galleries, and boutique shops — the neighborhood boasts a walkable atmosphere and big experiences to be had. You’ll find locally owned restaurants and eateries serving up artisanal fare and craft beverages, as well as live music venues that draw in a younger, creative crowd. The community welcomes newcomers and residents enjoy an array of events throughout the year, such as the Little Bohemia Backyard Bash and the Little Bohemia Holiday Stroll during the winter season.
Omaha’s Little Bohemia area was originally settled by Czech immigrants in the late 19th century. Since then, Little Bohemia has been both characterized by its old-world character and for welcoming modern revitalization efforts. If you’re searching for a burgeoning art scene, such as local galleries and studios, then Little Bohemia may be of interest. The neighborhood also benefits from a diverse array of dining options, including delicious international cuisines that showcase the multicultural roots of the neighborhood. Little Bohemia has an abundance of historic architecture, which adds to its desirability and continues to attract new businesses and residents. If you love to shop, you’ll find a treasure trove of gems in Little Bohemia, such as Dusk Goods & Gifts and Fontenelle Supply Co.
Bennington
Bennington is a small-town community approximately 18 miles northwest of Omaha. The city is hailed as being peaceful and a touch rural, offering residents a quiet retreat away from the hustle of city life while still being close enough to take advantage of Omaha’s amenities. Over the years, Bennington has experienced steady growth with new developments, both residential and commercial, popping up. The city has also seen an addition of amenities that cater to families and young professionals seeking a more relaxed lifestyle. The tight-knit community offers friendly neighbors and a slower day-to-day pace, all while boasting good schools and nearby parks, trails, and outdoor recreation opportunities. A popular spot in town is the Stratford Park Neighborhood Pool for summertime swimming!
The town of Bennington hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, including Winterfest, a St. Patrick’s Day Parade, and Easter egg hunts! Bennington Daze is an annual June gathering that includes corn hole tournaments, dancing, a parade, and a fireworks show! While Bennington is further from downtown Omaha than other neighborhoods cited on this list, it’s still close enough for a daily commute of 20-30 minutes. This number increases for those working in South Omaha and living in Bennington.
Leavenworth
Omaha’s Leavenworth is situated just south of downtown and is considered one of the up-and-coming neighborhoods in the city going into 2025. Leavenworth is best characterized by its vibrant urban atmosphere, as well as its unique historic charm. Hailing as one of Omaha’s oldest neighborhoods, residents enjoy the beautiful vintage homes, the mature trees that line the streets, and a mix of both residential and commercial properties. Over recent years, Leavenworth has experienced revitalization with an influx of new businesses, restaurants, and entertainment venues that have drawn in a younger, more energetic crowd and families of all ages. Leavenworth is a couple of miles from downtown, making for a convenient commute and easy access for those looking to experience city nightlife on the weekends.
Leavenworth features a mix of historic homes and newly renovated properties, which makes it an attractive option for both families and first-time homebuyers. The walkability of the neighborhood allows residents to access local parks, cafes, and shopping without relying on a car. As the area continues to develop, residents can expect additional amenities and recreational options to meet the needs of the influx of residents and interested buyers.
Gretna
Gretna is a city in Sarpy County, located approximately 20 miles southwest of Omaha. This up-and-coming area offers the perfect balance between small-town ambiance and modern convenience, with an ultra-friendly atmosphere and an excellent school district. Gretna is hailed by many as a great place to settle down and raise a family or for young professionals looking to lead a quieter lifestyle without having to give up all of the bigger city amenities found in Omaha. The town has seen a growing number of residential developments over the years, as well as an influx of spacious homes and family-oriented neighborhoods. Gretna is also home to a number of local parks, such as Gretna Crossing Park, Peterson Park, and Lincoln Place Park. Residents also benefit from local events and festivals, as well as community sports programs.
Since Gretna is situated along major highways, commuting to Omaha is feasible and some residents even make their way to Lincoln via I-80 West. With the winning combination of affordability, accessibility, and quality of life — Gretna is a sought-after destination for individuals looking to settle down between Omaha and Lincoln. Infrastructure and amenities are expected to continue expanding, poising the area for sustained growth and characterizing the city as a rapidly developing piece of the Omaha metro area.
Benson
Omaha’s Benson neighborhood is located northwest of downtown. Benson is characterized by its lively and unique vibe, which has transformed it into one of the city’s most vibrant districts. Not only hailing as an art hub, Benson also has a historic charm all of its own — blending working-class roots seamlessly with a flourishing cultural scene that attracts new residents and tourists alike. The heart of Benson is found along Maple Street, which is home to new and trendy restaurants, craft breweries, cafes, and plenty of shopping to fill an afternoon. Benson is also attractive to a younger crowd due to live music offerings at venues like The Waiting Room Lounge which hosts both local and nationally touring acts. The nightlife options in Benson are a draw for those who prioritize evening entertainment options.
Benson has a strong local community and residents often cite a sense of belonging. Recurring events throughout the year, such as Benson First Friday art walks and annual festivals all contribute to this sense of camaraderie among neighbors and fellow Omahans. Benson’s proximity to downtown Omaha also makes it an attractive option for professionals and those who value easy access to Omaha’s amenities, all while enjoying a more laid-back neighborhood feel at home.
Aksarben Village
Aksarben Village is a self-contained community on the western side of the Omaha area. The neighborhood is known for its vibrant urban feel, which seamlessly blends work, play, and community. Once a historic racetrack, the neighborhood has been transformed into a lively destination complete with trendy restaurants and bars, boutique shopping options, and plenty of entertainment. The neighborhood is a great find and has been thriving over the years as businesses and even a complete retail center have decided to call Aksarben home. Aksarben’s Stinson Park hosts events throughout the seasons such as concerts, open-air markets, and even fitness classes — all of which combine to foster a deep sense of community and connection for residents.
As far as location, affordable housing, and things to do within the community — Aksarben is one of the best areas in Omaha, Nebraska to call home. In fact, Aksarben spelled backwards is … Nebraska! The area is bustling with delicious local coffee shops, family-owned restaurants, fitness studios, small businesses, and housing options that range from modern-style apartments to historic bungalows with plenty of personality. The neighborhood is also in close proximity to schools like Nebraska Medicine, College of Saint Mary, and the University of Nebraska-Omaha. The neighborhood is a prime destination for young professionals, families, and visitors alike who want to experience everything that Omaha has to offer.
Let Us Introduce You to Omaha’s Up-and-Coming Areas!
If you’re interested in moving to Omaha or relocating to a different neighborhood, our friendly and professional team at NP Dodge Real Estate would be happy to show you around. From Council Bluffs to Sarpy East, our team of 500+ real estate professionals knows the area best! We can help you find the perfect neighborhood for you and your family, all while taking into consideration what amenities and features are most important to you.