How to Buy Land in Nebraska

The Sandhills is a 19,300-square-mile region of grass-covered sand dunes in central Nebraska — the largest such formation in the Western Hemisphere. The grass prevents the dunes from moving, creating a rolling, treeless landscape that supports vast cattle ranching operations. The Sandhills sit atop the Ogallala Aquifer, and the sandy soil acts as a recharge zone — making this one of the few areas where the aquifer is being replenished. Ranches here are measured in thousands of acres because the grazing capacity per acre is low. It's one of the most unique agricultural landscapes in America.

The Ogallala Aquifer is the lifeblood of Nebraska agriculture. The state sits atop the largest portion of the aquifer, and — unlike Kansas and Texas where depletion is severe — Nebraska's aquifer levels are generally more sustainable, partly due to Sandhills recharge. However, some areas of southern and western Nebraska have seen water level declines. Well permits and pumping allocations are managed by local NRDs. For irrigated farmland, the water right and well capacity are the primary value drivers — land without a functioning irrigation system is worth significantly less.

The Omaha metro has been growing steadily, supported by Berkshire Hathaway, Mutual of Omaha, Union Pacific, and a diversified economy. Suburban growth has pushed into Sarpy, Douglas, and Washington counties. Land in the path of growth has appreciated. Compared to many Midwest metros, Omaha offers affordable suburban lots with strong school districts and a growing economy. For residential development or long-term suburban holds, the Omaha metro is one of the more reliable land markets in the Great Plains.