As an expert in the real estate market of Douglas County, NE, I have witnessed firsthand the influence that proximity to major cities like Omaha and Lincoln can have on property prices. Located in the eastern part of Nebraska, Douglas County is home to over 500,000 residents and is the most populous county in the state. With its diverse economy, strong job market, and attractive quality of life, it's no surprise that real estate in Douglas County is highly sought after.
The Influence of Omaha and Lincoln
Omaha and Lincoln are two of the largest cities in Nebraska and are both located within close proximity to Douglas County. Omaha, with a population of over 470,000, is the largest city in the state and serves as a major economic hub.It is home to several Fortune 500 companies, including Berkshire Hathaway and Union Pacific Railroad, and has a thriving job market. Lincoln, with a population of over 280,000, is the state capital and is known for its strong education sector, with the University of Nebraska being located there. The close proximity to these two major cities has a significant impact on real estate prices in Douglas County. The demand for housing in the county is largely driven by people who work in Omaha or Lincoln but prefer to live in a more suburban or rural setting. This has led to an increase in property prices as more people are willing to pay a premium to live within commuting distance of these cities.
The Commuting Factor
One of the main reasons why people choose to live in Douglas County is its convenient location for commuting to Omaha or Lincoln.The county has a well-developed transportation network, including major highways and public transportation options like buses and light rail. This makes it easy for residents to travel to and from work in the cities, while still enjoying the benefits of living in a quieter and more affordable area. With the rising cost of living in Omaha and Lincoln, many people are choosing to live in Douglas County and commute to work. This has created a high demand for housing in the county, which has resulted in an increase in property prices. In fact, according to data from Zillow, the median home value in Douglas County is $190,000, which is significantly higher than the state average of $160,000.
The Urban vs.
Suburban DivideAnother factor that affects real estate prices in Douglas County is the urban vs. suburban divide. While Omaha and Lincoln are both urban cities with a higher cost of living, Douglas County offers a more suburban or rural lifestyle. This appeals to many people who are looking for a quieter and more affordable place to live, while still having access to the amenities and job opportunities of the nearby cities. The demand for suburban and rural properties in Douglas County has led to an increase in property prices, especially in areas that are closer to the cities.
This is because these properties offer the best of both worlds – a peaceful and scenic setting, with easy access to the urban centers for work and entertainment.
The Impact on Commercial Real Estate
It's not just residential real estate that is affected by proximity to major cities in Douglas County – commercial real estate also sees a significant impact. With Omaha and Lincoln being major economic hubs, businesses are constantly looking for office space and commercial properties in these areas. However, as the cost of real estate in these cities continues to rise, many businesses are turning to Douglas County for more affordable options. This has led to an increase in demand for commercial properties in the county, which has resulted in an increase in prices. This is especially true for areas that are close to major highways and have easy access to the cities.As more businesses choose to set up shop in Douglas County, the demand for commercial real estate is expected to continue to rise.
