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Nebraska: Congressional District 2
Nebraska: Congressional District 2
Nebraska’s 2nd Congressional District is anchored on the Missouri River, in Omaha to the east and past the Platte River toward the west. As a state, Nebraska has a Lower Climate Vulnerability Risk Rating, but the vast majority of communities in this district are doing even better, with Lowest Climate Risk ratings. Among the great places that are climate resilient: Omaha, Gretna, La Vista and Wahoo.
Living in this Nebraska region, encompassing its largest city and extending west past the Platte River, offers a distinctly Midwestern experience, blending urban vibrancy with the expansive calm of the Great Plains. Residents enjoy a quality of life characterized by a practical, unpretentious ethos and a strong sense of community. The climate features four distinct seasons, from warm, sunny summers to cold, snowy winters, providing opportunities for lots of activities, though life here often feels less hurried than in coastal regions. A significant draw is the affordable cost of living, particularly for housing, making it an attractive area for families and individuals seeking greater financial stability.
The economy in this part of Nebraska is surprisingly robust and diverse, anchored by a major metropolitan center that serves as a hub for finance, insurance, transportation, and healthcare. As one moves west, agriculture remains a foundational industry, with corn, soybeans, and livestock production shaping the landscape and contributing significantly to the regional economy. This blend creates a stable job market with opportunities across various sectors. Educational opportunities are strong, with numerous well-regarded public school districts, often boasting high graduation rates, and several prominent universities and colleges contributing to a vibrant academic and cultural scene, particularly in the larger urban areas.
COMMUNITY SNAPSHOTS
Ashland, Saunders County
Ashland Livability Stats:
Suburban ● $$ ● Schools: A ● Crime: B ● Community Health: Above Average ● Nearby Airport
Ashland Homes for Sale and Rent
Ashland is a small, historic town located almost perfectly between Omaha and Lincoln, offering a blend of rural charm and convenient access to two major metropolitan areas. This unique location allows residents to enjoy a peaceful, community-focused lifestyle while having a short commute for work and entertainment.
The community is known for its picturesque setting along the Platte River, which provides a variety of outdoor recreational opportunities. Residents enjoy nearby attractions such as Eugene T. Mahoney State Park and the Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum. Ashland's downtown area is characterized by its historic architecture, local shops, and restaurants, giving it a distinct small-town feel.
Ashland is served by the Ashland-Greenwood Public Schools, which are highly valued by the community. The town's economy is supported by its role as a local hub and its location, with many residents working in either Lincoln or Omaha. The blend of a historic small town with modern amenities and a strong connection to nature makes Ashland a very appealing place to live.
Ashland Climate Stats
Saunders County, where Wahoo is located, has a relatively low overall climate vulnerability. It ranks 87th out of 93 counties in Nebraska and falls into the 9th national vulnerability percentile for lowest vulnerability.
Key Vulnerabilities
Social & Economic (Climate Impacts): The vulnerability related to the social and economic costs of climate change is high, ranking in the 98th national percentile.
Economic & Productivity Losses: Vulnerability in this area is also high, ranking in the 94th national percentile and 12th in Nebraska.
Temperature: Vulnerability to temperature ranks in the 90th national percentile and 40th in Nebraska.
Areas of Relative Resilience
Social & Economic (Community Baseline): The county has very low vulnerability to social and economic stressors that affect community resilience, ranking in the 4th national percentile.
Health (Community Baseline): Factors reflecting the overall state of population health show very low vulnerability, ranking in the 5th national percentile.
Infrastructure: Vulnerability in essential structures and services is low, ranking in the 18th national percentile.
Health (Climate Impacts): Expected changes in community health from a warming climate also show low vulnerability, ranking in the 14th national percentile.
Extreme Events: The vulnerability to historical and projected extreme weather events is moderate, ranking in the 40th national percentile.
Overall Vulnerability: Saunders County's climate vulnerability is very low, ranking 87th out of 93 counties in Nebraska, which places it in the 9th national vulnerability percentile (lowest vulnerability).
Gretna, Sarpy County
Gretna Livability Stats:
Suburban ● $$ ● Schools: B ● Crime: N/A ● Community Health: Average ● Nearby Airport
Gretna Homes for Sale and Rent
Gretna, Nebraska, is a rapidly growing community that offers a highly desirable suburban lifestyle with easy access to the amenities of the Omaha metropolitan area. Located just southwest of Omaha, Gretna provides residents with a small-town feel while being minutes away from a major urban center.
The city's economy is supported by its growth as a residential hub, with many residents commuting to Omaha for work. However, the local economy is also healthy with a below-average unemployment rate and a growing number of jobs in sectors like healthcare, education, and retail.
For amenities and recreation, Gretna provides a wide range of options for families and individuals. The Gretna Public Schools system is highly regarded and known for its strong community involvement. The city is home to numerous parks, a new YMCA with a water park, and is a short drive from attractions like the Nebraska Crossing Outlets, Eugene T. Mahoney State Park, and Vala's Pumpkin Patch, which is a major regional draw in the fall. Gretna's community spirit is evident in its many local events and a welcoming atmosphere that balances a quiet suburban life with the convenience of a nearby city.
Gretna Climate Stats
Sarpy County, which includes Gretna, exhibits a low overall climate vulnerability compared to most counties in Nebraska and the United States. The county ranks 92nd out of 93 counties in Nebraska for overall climate vulnerability, placing it in the 6th national vulnerability percentile (lowest vulnerability).
Key Vulnerabilities:
Temperature: The vulnerability to temperature ranks in the 91st national percentile and 35th in Nebraska.
Social & Economic (Climate Impacts): The social and economic costs associated with climate change rank in the 76th national vulnerability percentile.
Pollution Sources: The county's vulnerability to pollution sources ranks in the 82nd national percentile and 7th in Nebraska.
Land Use: The vulnerability related to land use is in the 87th national percentile and 17th in Nebraska.
Minority Status & Language: This area shows notable vulnerability, ranking in the 80th national percentile and 11th in Nebraska.
Areas of Relative Resilience:
Infrastructure: The county's infrastructure is a significant strength, with a vulnerability ranking in the 6th national percentile.
Health (Community Baseline): Factors reflecting the baseline state of population health show very low vulnerability, ranking in the 5th national percentile.
Social & Economic (Community Baseline): Social and economic stressors that impact community resilience are also very low, ranking in the 18th national percentile.
Health (Climate Impacts): Expected changes in community health resulting from a warming climate show low vulnerability, ranking in the 14th national percentile.
Extreme Events: Historical and projected extreme weather event occurrences show low vulnerability, ranking in the 7th national percentile.
Overall Vulnerability: Sarpy County's overall climate vulnerability is extremely low, ranking it 92nd out of 93 counties in Nebraska, which places it in the 6th national vulnerability percentile (lowest vulnerability).
Wahoo, Saunders County
Wahoo Livability Stats:
Suburban ● $$ ● Schools: A ● Crime: B ● Community Health: Above Average ● Nearby Airport
Wahoo is a historic and close-knit community that offers a traditional small-town experience with a strong sense of local pride. As the county seat of Saunders County, it provides a peaceful, family-friendly environment and is an ideal place for those seeking a slower pace of life.
The economy in Wahoo is diverse and stable, with a focus on local businesses, agriculture, and manufacturing. Many residents are employed in education and healthcare, contributing to the city's strong community foundation. Wahoo is also home to a number of businesses that provide local job opportunities.
For amenities and recreation, Wahoo offers a variety of options. Residents can enjoy the outdoors at Lake Wanahoo, a popular recreation area offering fishing, no-wake boating, camping, and hiking trails. The Wahoo Civic Center provides a range of recreational and fitness opportunities, including a pool and a gym, along with hosting youth and adult sports programs. The city is served by Wahoo Public Schools, which are a source of community pride and offer a supportive educational environment. Wahoo's blend of strong community ties, local amenities, and a peaceful setting makes it a welcoming place to call home.
Wahoo Climate Stats
Saunders County, where Wahoo is located, has a relatively low overall climate vulnerability. It ranks 87th out of 93 counties in Nebraska and falls into the 9th national vulnerability percentile for lowest vulnerability.
Key Vulnerabilities
Social & Economic (Climate Impacts): The vulnerability related to the social and economic costs of climate change is high, ranking in the 98th national percentile.
Economic & Productivity Losses: Vulnerability in this area is also high, ranking in the 94th national percentile and 12th in Nebraska.
Temperature: Vulnerability to temperature ranks in the 90th national percentile and 40th in Nebraska.
Areas of Relative Resilience
Social & Economic (Community Baseline): The county has very low vulnerability to social and economic stressors that affect community resilience, ranking in the 4th national percentile.
Health (Community Baseline): Factors reflecting the overall state of population health show very low vulnerability, ranking in the 5th national percentile.
Infrastructure: Vulnerability in essential structures and services is low, ranking in the 18th national percentile.
Health (Climate Impacts): Expected changes in community health from a warming climate also show low vulnerability, ranking in the 14th national percentile.
Extreme Events: The vulnerability to historical and projected extreme weather events is moderate, ranking in the 40th national percentile.
Overall Vulnerability: Saunders County's climate vulnerability is very low, ranking 87th out of 93 counties in Nebraska, which places it in the 9th national vulnerability percentile (lowest vulnerability).
We have put together a comprehensive guide for Nebraska that includes:
Modeling data about climate risks, vulnerabilities, and strengths;
Political Context and Competitiveness;
Community Overview of the Region and Neighborhoods;
Economic Opportunity and Cost of Living; diversified economy with growing opportunities;
Schools and Education;
Civic Engagement Opportunities, including political, community and advocacy organizations.
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Why Nebraska Represents the Future
Nebraska embodies the kind of place where you can find some stability in a changing environment.
The climate is less vulnerable than much of the country.
Your vote genuinely matters in one of the nation's most competitive districts
Your voice can influence policy through accessible local government and civic engagement
Your life can flourish with affordable living, economic opportunity, and community connection
Your presence helps build the inclusive, competitive democracy we all need
This isn't just a place to find refuge—it's a place to build the future.