The fastest-growing city in the fastest-growing county in Nebraska
Gretna underscores its motto “The Great Life” with growth, proximity to Omaha and broad redevelopment plans. Located in Sarpy County, near the Elkhorn River, it is the fastest-growing city in Nebraska's fastest-growing county. With views of the Elkhorn Valley and its green hills, Gretna maintains a small-town feel.
The city of about 5,000 is a suburb of Omaha. Newcomers to Gretna can tap into the larger city’s Fortune 500 employers, award-winning dining scene and cultural destinations. New schools, housing, parks, and the proposed $3.2 billion Nebraska Crossing Expansion project are visible examples of growth in Gretna. “The expansion project is definitely something we’re looking forward to,” says Karen Jennings, a Realtor with BHHS Ambassador Real Estate for more than 15 years. “The goal is to bring new retail, new businesses and tourism, but it will likely bring the same to Omaha, which is positive for the region as a whole.”
The water tower is a marker for the south side of Gretna and can be seen for miles.
Gretna has small town vibes while being part of the greater Omaha area.
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Midcentury classics, brand-new suburban homes and estates with acreage
Compared to Sarpy County’s median home price of $350,250 and the national median of about $420,000, the median single-family home price in Gretna is $425,000. About 400 homes sold in the city in 2024, from three-bedroom townhouses and midcentury ranch-style homes starting around $200,000 to five-bedroom estates on several acres that have recently sold for about $2,000,000. Toward the south end of town, Pebblebrooke is a planned community with homes ranging between $320,000 and $470,000.
Larger lots are available on the edge of Gretna for residents.
Mid-century modern ranch homes are common in Gretna.
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The largest Hy Vee grocery and a future mixed-use project will change Gretna
The largest Hy Vee grocery store in the region opened in 2024 with 135,000 square feet, or 3.5 acres. The modern grocer offers an upscale giant deli and a Wahlburgers restaurant. Nebraska Crossing, an outlet mall, was approved in-concept by the city to expand into a much larger retail, entertainment, housing and sports hub. The $3.2 billion, 10-year project is expected to drive up property values and transform the city into a regional entertainment destination with 1,000 hotel beds and 3,000 apartment units as well as townhouses and condos. City voters narrowly approved the measure in early 2025, paving the way for revenue collection and reinvestment, though questions of implementation remain.
The largest Hy-Vee can be found near Gretna.
If you live in Gretna you likely love your Nebraska Football. Go Big Red.
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Gretna School District recently opened two new schools
The city is zoned for the rapidly growing Gretna School district, which has a B-plus grade from Niche. In response to recent growth, Cedar Hollow Elementary opened in 2023, and Gretna East High opened in 2024. “I’m confident there will be another high school to come,” says Jennings, “and I wouldn’t doubt that we’ll see more elementary schools as well.” The Nebraska Department of Education ranks the district “excellent,” the highest of four possible classifications.
Gretna High School serves South Sarpy County and the surrounding areas.
Squire John Thomas Elementary School serves students in PK through K-6.
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Gretna Crossing is the city’s newest park
The city manages eight parks and community-centered events throughout the year, including Paws at the Park, for dog lovers and their pups. Gretna Crossing Park opened in 2023 and attracts young families and outdoor athletes with a fishing pond, an 18-hole disc golf course, sports fields and an amphitheater. It also includes a playground and a new water park with a lazy river central feature.
Gretna Crossing Park is a great place to enjoy the outdoors.
Enjoy the outdoors with your furry friend at the dog park in Gretna Crossing Park.
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Despite growth, low crime rates are a source of pride in Gretna
The Sarpy County Sheriff’s Department is Gretna's law enforcement agency. It does not currently publish crime statistics specific to the city, but the overall rate of violent crimes is 1.022 reports per 1,000 residents, while the overall property crime rate is 8.369 per 1,000. Considering only crime rates, Gretna is safer than the Nebraska state average and the national average. Flooding from the Platte River and the Elkhorn River can occur during any season, but the risk is statistically low, according to First Street Technologies. In spring and summer, tornadoes pose a threat.
Limited public transportation but easy access to Omaha
“We’re growing fast in Gretna, and our highways must expand to accommodate that. Right now, another exit off I-80 is in the works,” says Jennings of a project expected to launch in early 2025 and be complete by winter. Travelers along Gretna highways see new development and construction in almost every direction. Interstate 80 connects Omaha to Lincoln and flows through Gretna, making commutes of 30 and 40 minutes, respectively, easy, with ordinarily mild traffic. Highway 370 connects to Papillion, Bellevue, and Offut Air Force Base. Highway 6 connects to Elkhorn in west Omaha. The closest commercial airport to Gretna is Eppley Airfield in east Omaha.
Interstate 80 and Highway 370 are major transportation routes near Gretna.
Interstate 80 provides a quick route for Gretna residents to travel.
Having built a home herself, Jenn has first hand knowledge of the fun and exciting home building process, which she couples with her 15 years of residential real estate experience to ensure a seamless process for you and your family. Jenn and her team are Elkhorn residents, engrained in the community, and here as your area experts.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
