TL;DR: Nebraska is home to one active-duty military installation — Offutt Air Force Base in Bellevue — plus Nebraska National Guard facilities across the state. This guide covers everything your family needs before PCSing: 2026 BAH rates, housing options, school districts, veteran benefits, and the honest real talk about life in the Omaha metro.
If you just got orders to Offutt AFB, take a breath. Nebraska has a reputation for being a hidden gem among military duty stations, and families who land there often end up loving it. In fact, the Omaha metro offers a below-average cost of living, competitive housing prices, strong schools, and a surprisingly vibrant food and culture scene. Furthermore, the tight-knit military community around Offutt makes transitions easier than you might expect.
However, before you start packing boxes, you need the full picture — BAH rates, on-base versus off-base housing, school districts, and the tax realities of a state with income tax. This guide gives you all of it.
Ready to start your plan? Build your free PCS Plan and get ahead of your move today.
Military Installations in Nebraska
Nebraska is unique among states in that it has exactly one active-duty military installation. Additionally, the Nebraska National Guard operates facilities throughout the state. Understanding both is important when you receive orders here.
Eastern Nebraska: Offutt Air Force Base
Offutt Air Force Base sits in Bellevue, Nebraska — a city of about 64,000 people located roughly 15 minutes south of downtown Omaha. Notably, the base operates alongside one of the most strategically significant commands in the entire U.S. military.
Mission and Major Units
Offutt is the headquarters of U.S. Strategic Command (USSTRATCOM) — one of only 11 unified combatant commands in the Department of Defense. USSTRATCOM oversees the nation’s nuclear deterrence mission, space operations, global strike capabilities, and missile defense. Consequently, the weight of what happens at Offutt is hard to overstate.
The 55th Wing serves as the host unit and is the largest wing in Air Combat Command. Known as the Fightin’ Fifty-Fifth, the wing operates more than 46 aircraft across 13 different models and seven types. Its primary missions include intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, and electronic warfare — with RC-135 Rivet Joint, Cobra Ball, and Combat Sent aircraft conducting global operations. Moreover, the 55th Wing comprises more than 7,800 personnel across six groups at six locations worldwide.
Other significant tenant commands at Offutt include:
- The 557th Weather Wing — the Air Force’s lead weather center, providing global weather intelligence for military operations
- The 95th Wing — focused on nuclear command, control, and communications
- The Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency CONUS Annex
- More than 44 tenant units in total
The total population served by Offutt — including active duty, dependents, DoD civilians, and retirees in the area — exceeds 57,000 people. Notably, the base also enrolled approximately 28,000 patients through the 55th Medical Group as of the last published count.
On-Base Housing
Offutt’s family housing is privatized and managed through Burlington Capital Properties / Rising View. Two housing areas serve the installation. Hoffman Heights is located within the installation gates and offers convenient gate-to-door access. In contrast, Rising View is the off-base managed community in Bellevue, which technically functions as military housing but sits outside the installation itself.
Waitlists are real at Offutt — particularly for certain rank brackets and family configurations. Do not assume you will walk into on-base housing the week you arrive. Instead, have a backup rental plan ready. If you accept on-base housing, your BAH transfers directly to the housing office. As a result, you will not pocket any savings below BAH, and you build zero equity. For families expecting a longer assignment, buying off-base with a VA loan nearly always makes more financial sense.
For questions about availability, contact the Housing Management Office at (402) 294-7412.
Off-Base Neighborhoods
Most Offutt families choose one of four communities, each offering a different balance of commute time, price, and school quality.
Bellevue is the closest city to Offutt and carries the largest military population in the area. Commute times typically run 5–15 minutes to the main gate. Home prices range from roughly $235,000 to $360,000 depending on neighborhood and vintage. Old Towne Bellevue offers historic tri-level homes at lower price points, while Southern Bellevue has newer construction at higher price points with gate-to-door times that remain short. Additionally, many military-friendly businesses and services are concentrated here because of the base proximity.
Papillion sits about 15–20 minutes from the main gate and is consistently ranked among the best small cities in America. Homes here range from $300,000 to $450,000 and above. Notably, the Papillion-La Vista School District is the strongest academic option in the corridor. New construction is abundant in Papillion, giving buyers more choices than the older resale inventory in Bellevue. However, the price premium is real — budget accordingly.
La Vista is growing rapidly and offers newer housing developments at a median of roughly $305,000. It sits just west of the base and provides solid access to major shopping corridors. Similarly, Ralston offers the most affordable entry point in the corridor, with a median around $260,000. Overall, Ralston is a strong choice for junior enlisted families stretching their BAH without a long commute.
For a broader look at what your BAH will buy in each neighborhood, see our 2026 BAH rates guide and use the official DoD BAH calculator to confirm your exact allowance.
2026 BAH Rates — Offutt AFB / Omaha MHA
The following rates are effective January 1, 2026, for Military Housing Area NE192 (Omaha/Offutt AFB). Overall, rates increased from 2025 in line with the national average increase of approximately 4.2%.
| Pay Grade | With Dependents | Without Dependents |
|---|---|---|
| E-1 through E-4 | $1,887 | $1,425 |
| E-5 | $2,085 | $1,587 |
| E-6 | $2,376 | $1,779 |
| E-7 | $2,457 | $1,893 |
| E-8 | $2,547 | $2,148 |
| E-9 | $2,706 | $2,229 |
| W-1 | $2,394 | $1,827 |
| W-2 | $2,493 | $2,145 |
| W-3 | $2,604 | $2,241 |
| W-4 | $2,742 | $2,388 |
| W-5 | $2,913 | $2,475 |
| O-1 | $2,127 | $1,683 |
| O-2 | $2,373 | $2,022 |
| O-3 | $2,601 | $2,268 |
| O-4 | $2,967 | $2,454 |
| O-5 | $3,231 | $2,502 |
| O-6 | $3,258 | $2,583 |
| O-7 and above | $3,279 | $2,625 |
Source: Defense Travel Management Office, effective January 1, 2026.
Nebraska’s housing market is one of the most favorable in the country for VA loan buyers. Specifically, most BAH tiers at Offutt align well with local median home prices — and pairing your BAH with a VA loan (no down payment, no PMI) stretches your buying power significantly further than at higher-cost duty stations.
Want to see how your BAH translates into a home purchase? Learn how the VA home loan works and connect with a military-savvy lender in the Omaha area.
Schools Near Offutt AFB
Offutt AFB has no on-base schools. Therefore, all students attend public or private schools in the surrounding communities. Your school district is determined by where you live, not by which installation you work on.
| District | Serves | Contact |
|---|---|---|
| Bellevue Public Schools | Bellevue, near-base communities | (402) 293-5000 |
| Papillion-La Vista Schools | Papillion, La Vista | (402) 537-6200 |
| Ralston Public Schools | Ralston | (402) 331-4700 |
| Omaha Public Schools | Omaha, some northwest areas | (531) 299-0220 |
Papillion-La Vista is generally considered the highest-performing district in the corridor. However, Bellevue Public Schools has strong programs and is very familiar with military children’s needs — staff understand PCS transitions and tend to be exceptionally supportive of incoming families.
If your child has special needs, contact the Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP) at Offutt before you PCS: (402) 294-4329. Specifically, the EFMP coordinator will help you identify appropriate services and schools in the area before your family arrives.
Healthcare at Offutt
The Ehrling Bergquist Clinic, located at 2501 Capehart Road on Offutt AFB, is the primary medical facility for TRICARE Prime enrollees. Primary care and limited specialty services are available for the 28,000+ enrolled patients. For appointments, call 402-232-CARE (402-232-2273).
TRICARE at Offutt falls under the TRICARE West Region, administered by TriWest Healthcare Alliance. Families enrolled in TRICARE Select can use any network provider in the Omaha metro. Additionally, the pharmacy refill line is 402-581-9571, and a second refill pharmacy operates at 106 Meyer Ave on base.
Other Base Resources
Offutt supports a full range of installation services for families. The following are key contacts to save before your arrival:
| Office / Service | Phone Number |
|---|---|
| Military & Family Support Center | (402) 294-4329 |
| Housing Management Office | (402) 294-7412 |
| Ehrling Bergquist Clinic (Medical) | (402) 232-2273 |
| Offutt Inns (Temporary Lodging) | (402) 281-1292 |
| Child Development Center | (402) 294-2203 |
| Legal Assistance Office | (402) 294-6919 |
The commissary operates seven days a week near the main gate, with the Exchange, pharmacy, and several dining options close by. Offutt also has a Thrift Shop and Airman’s Attic — two resources that military families consistently find valuable during PCS moves.
Need help organizing your PCS? Download the PCS Toolkit and stay on top of every checklist item from start to finish.
Nebraska National Guard
The Nebraska National Guard (NEARNG/NEANG) operates from multiple locations throughout the state. Joint Force Headquarters Nebraska is located in Lincoln, and armories are scattered across communities including Kearney, North Platte, Norfolk, and many others. Notably, Nebraska Air National Guard members also serve alongside the 55th Wing at Offutt AFB.
Nebraska Air National Guard
The Nebraska Air National Guard, made up of approximately 1,000 Airmen, is based at the Nebraska National Guard Air Base in Lincoln. Guard members perform dual missions: responding to the governor for state emergencies and preparing to respond to the president during national crises. Additionally, many Nebraska Air Guard members work directly with the 55th Wing at Offutt on a day-to-day basis.
Nebraska Army National Guard
The Nebraska Army National Guard operates from Joint Force Headquarters at 2433 NW 24th Street in Lincoln. In Ashland, the 209th Regimental Training Institute and armories throughout the state support the NEARNG’s training and readiness mission. For general inquiries, contact JFHQ Nebraska at 402-309-8191.
Living in Nebraska as a Military Family
Let’s be real about what Nebraska is actually like for military families. In short, the Omaha area surprises almost everyone who PCSs here — and not in a bad way.
Cost of Living
Nebraska’s cost of living is slightly below the national average. For most families PCSing from higher-cost duty stations — think Virginia, California, or Hawaii — the difference is immediately noticeable. Groceries, dining, and entertainment are affordable. In particular, traffic is light by most military standards; the 15-minute commute from Bellevue to the main gate feels almost luxurious after a tour somewhere congested.
However, there is one cost of living caveat worth knowing upfront: Nebraska property taxes run higher than many families expect. Sarpy County — which includes Bellevue, Papillion, and La Vista — is one of the more expensive counties in Nebraska for property taxes. Therefore, factor that into your housing budget when calculating your total monthly payment. It also affects renters, because landlords price property taxes into rent.
Weather
Nebraska weather is flat-out demanding. Winters bring serious cold — temperatures routinely drop below zero in January and February. Moreover, ice storms and blizzards happen with regularity. Summers swing hard in the other direction, with heat indices that can push well above 100°F. Tornadoes are a real seasonal threat; specifically, the Omaha metro sees tornado warnings regularly from May through September.
Consequently, if you are PCSing from the South or the West Coast, the weather is the adjustment everyone warns you about. Stock your emergency kit before your first winter. Similarly, know where your safe room or shelter is, and get weather alerts on your phone from day one.
Flooding
Offutt AFB itself has a complicated flooding history. In 2019, the base sustained significant damage in the Missouri River flood, which inundated portions of the installation and highlighted the ongoing flood risk for low-lying areas near the river. Most housing areas in Bellevue, Papillion, and La Vista are not in flood zones — however, you should always confirm this before you buy or rent. Ask specifically whether the property is in a FEMA flood zone and whether flood insurance is required.
Military-Friendly Community
One of Offutt’s strongest assets is the tight-knit military community in the surrounding area. Bellevue is genuinely military-friendly in a way that goes beyond just having a base nearby. Local businesses, schools, and neighbors understand PCS life. Furthermore, the Omaha metro offers a full city experience — professional sports, a nationally recognized zoo, a vibrant restaurant and brewery scene, and no shortage of things for kids to do — without the price tag of a larger metro.
The Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium in Omaha is a legitimate world-class attraction that offers military membership rates. It pays for itself in just two visits for a family of four. For outdoor activities, Nebraska state parks offer hiking, fishing, boating, and camping within an hour of base. Active-duty members stationed in Nebraska can, moreover, purchase a reduced-fee park permit for just $5 annually.
Spouse Employment and Education
Omaha is a strong employment market for military spouses. The metro has a diverse economy anchored by finance, healthcare, insurance, and tech — in addition to the large federal and contractor workforce surrounding Offutt itself. Moreover, two universities sit close to base: University of Nebraska Omaha and Bellevue University. Both have established military and veteran student programs.
Active-duty service members and their dependents stationed in Nebraska are immediately eligible for in-state tuition at UNO. Additionally, the MyCAA scholarship provides up to $4,000 (capped at $2,000 per fiscal year) in education funding for eligible military spouses pursuing portable career credentials.
Connect with the Military & Family Support Center at Offutt for employment readiness resources, resume assistance, and connections to the Military Spouse Employment Partnership network: (402) 294-4329.
Already thinking about your move logistics? See our military moving tips and learn how to make a DITY/PPM move work for your family with our complete DITY move guide.
Join the PCS Pay It Forward® community to connect directly with military families who have already navigated a PCS to Offutt. They can answer your neighborhood questions, school questions, and the real-talk questions that no official guide will answer. Find your base community here.
VA Home Loans in Nebraska
Nebraska is one of the best states in the country to use your VA home loan benefit. Here is why: the Omaha housing market offers real affordability relative to most military duty stations, VA loan buyers have zero down payment and no PMI, and the local market is competitive but not so frenzied that offers routinely get rejected due to buyer type. In short, your dollar goes further here than at most duty stations.
What the Omaha Market Looks Like in 2026
The Omaha metro has been one of the hotter housing markets in the country in recent years, with the Bellevue–Papillion corridor seeing strong buyer demand. However, it remains accessible for most BAH tiers at Offutt. Based on 2026 BAH levels and typical VA loan parameters:
- E-1 through E-4 (with dependents, $1,887/mo): Renting is usually the smarter short-term play. Buying targets are homes in the low-to-mid $200Ks in Ralston or north Bellevue.
- E-5 through E-6 (with dependents, $2,085–$2,376/mo): Buying starts to make financial sense. VA loans support purchases in the $240K–$320K range with no down payment and no PMI. Bellevue resale and Ralston are realistic targets.
- E-7 through O-3 (with dependents, $2,457–$2,601/mo): This is the sweet spot for Bellevue and La Vista — three-bedroom homes, established neighborhoods, 10–15 minute commutes. Target range: $295K–$360K.
- O-4 through O-5 ($2,967–$3,231/mo): Solid Papillion territory — newer construction, larger lots, top-tier schools. Target range: $350K–$425K+.
- O-6 and above ($3,258+/mo): Full range of available Papillion and south Bellevue inventory is within reach.
Nebraska-Specific VA Loan Considerations
Nebraska does not have a state-specific VA loan program layered on top of the federal benefit. Nevertheless, the federal VA loan benefit is exceptionally powerful here on its own merits. Specifically, you need zero down payment and carry no PMI — which typically runs $150–$200 per month on a comparable conventional loan. On top of that, rates are competitive, and the benefit is fully reusable for future PCS moves.
One thing to watch: closing costs. Seller-paid closing costs are common in the Omaha market at mid-range and higher price points. However, at lower price points (under $250K), sellers tend to have less margin and may resist covering costs. Therefore, discuss your offer strategy with a military-experienced real estate agent before going under contract.
Additionally, Nebraska property taxes are higher than the national average. Request a specific property tax estimate — not a Zillow estimate — before you commit to a purchase price. Your monthly payment will reflect the actual tax rate for that specific property and county.
See how the VA home loan works and get connected with a veteran-friendly lender in the Omaha area through the PCS Pay It Forward® network.
Nebraska State Financial and Veteran Benefits
Nebraska offers meaningful financial benefits for military families, though it is not a zero-tax state for active duty. Understanding exactly what applies to your situation is important before you file your taxes.
Nebraska State Income Tax on Military Pay
Nebraska has a state income tax, and active-duty military pay earned by Nebraska resident service members is subject to it. This is a key difference from states like Texas and Florida. However, there are two important exceptions that significantly reduce the tax burden for most military families:
- Combat Zone Exclusion: Nebraska follows federal guidelines and does not tax income earned while serving in a designated combat zone.
- Nonresident Active Duty: Federal law (the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act) means active-duty members pay income tax only in their state of legal residence — not necessarily in Nebraska. If your home of record is a no-income-tax state, you generally do not owe Nebraska income tax on your active-duty pay.
Furthermore, military retirement pay is 100% exempt from Nebraska income tax, effective for tax years beginning on or after January 1, 2022. As a result, Nebraska is considerably more attractive for retirees considering staying in the area after separation.
The PCS tax write-offs available to you don’t change by state. See our PCS tax write-offs guide for everything you can deduct from your move. Additionally, check your 2026 military pay with our 2026 military pay charts.
Property Tax Benefits for Disabled Veterans
Nebraska offers a homestead property tax exemption for qualifying veterans. The specifics depend on your disability rating and the nature of your disability:
- 100% service-connected permanent disability: Full homestead exemption (no income limits) — filed every year ending in 0 or 5.
- 100% service-connected temporary disability: Full homestead exemption — filed annually.
- Non-service-connected total disability: Partial exemption based on income limits — filed annually.
- VA-funded adapted home (paraplegic/multiple amputees): 100% exemption regardless of income or homestead value.
All homestead exemption applications must be filed annually between February 2 and June 30 through your local county assessor. For Sarpy County (Bellevue, Papillion, La Vista), contact the Sarpy County Assessor at (402) 593-2122. For additional questions, the Nebraska Homestead Helpline is 888-475-5101.
New in 2026: Disabled Veteran Motor Vehicle Tax Exemption
Starting January 1, 2026, all disabled and/or blind veterans in Nebraska can receive an exemption from the Motor Vehicle Tax and Motor Vehicle Fee for one vehicle used for personal transportation. Notably, this is a new expansion of existing benefits and applies regardless of disability percentage. Contact the Nebraska Department of Veterans’ Affairs for application details: 402-420-4021.
Education Benefits
Nebraska offers several education benefits that military families should know about:
- Nebraska Waiver of Tuition: Children and spouses of veterans who died from a service-connected injury or illness receive a full tuition waiver at state colleges and universities — valid for one degree or credential.
- Nebraska National Guard Tuition Assistance: Enlisted Nebraska Guard members pursuing a bachelor’s degree at a state-supported institution may qualify for 100% tuition assistance. Up to 1,200 members can receive this benefit per fiscal year, and graduate programs qualify for 50%.
- Nebraska Reservist Tuition Credit: Eligible reserve component members of Nebraska-based units may receive a 75% tuition credit (50% for graduate programs) at University of Nebraska campuses, Nebraska State Colleges, and Nebraska Community Colleges. Up to 200 new applicants are accepted per calendar year.
- In-State Tuition: All active-duty service members and their dependents stationed in Nebraska are immediately eligible for in-state tuition at the University of Nebraska Omaha.
Other Nebraska Military Benefits
- Hunting and Fishing: Nonresident service members on active duty in Nebraska may purchase hunting and fishing licenses at resident prices.
- State Parks: Active-duty members stationed at a Nebraska installation can purchase a vehicle park permit for $5 (valid January 1–December 31).
- Veterans Hiring Preference: Nebraska veterans receive a 5% preference added to passing exam scores for state employment. Disabled veterans receive an additional 5%.
- Nebraska Veterans Aid Fund: Emergency financial assistance is available for eligible veterans in need. Contact Nebraska Department of Veterans’ Affairs at 402-420-4021.
Use the PCS binder checklist to track benefit enrollment and paperwork from your first week at your new duty station.
Using Your VA Home Loan — Next Steps
You have orders to Nebraska and your BAH is set. Now is the time to look at what your VA loan benefit actually buys you before PCS season creates bidding wars in the Bellevue–Papillion corridor.
The PCS Pay It Forward® network connects military families with vetted, military-experienced real estate agents and VA lenders in the Omaha area — at no cost to you. Start your VA home loan snapshot and know what you can afford before you ever step foot in Nebraska.
Frequently Asked Questions: Military Bases in Nebraska
Is Offutt Air Force Base the only military base in Nebraska?
Yes, Offutt AFB is the only active-duty military installation in Nebraska. The Nebraska National Guard operates from multiple locations including the Joint Force Headquarters in Lincoln, the Air National Guard Base in Lincoln, and armories across the state. However, for active-duty PCS assignments, Offutt AFB in Bellevue is the sole installation.
What is the mission of Offutt Air Force Base?
Offutt AFB serves as the headquarters of U.S. Strategic Command (USSTRATCOM), which oversees the nation’s nuclear deterrence, space operations, global strike, and missile defense missions. Specifically, the 55th Wing — the largest wing in Air Combat Command — is the host unit and conducts global intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, and electronic warfare operations using RC-135 aircraft variants. Additionally, the 557th Weather Wing and 95th Wing operate from Offutt.
What are the best neighborhoods to live in near Offutt AFB?
Most Offutt families live in Bellevue, Papillion, La Vista, or Ralston. Specifically, Bellevue offers the shortest commute and the most military-friendly community feel. Papillion provides top-rated schools and newer construction at higher price points. In contrast, La Vista and Ralston offer more affordable options for families watching their budget carefully. Overall, your best choice depends on your BAH, your family’s school priorities, and how much commute time you are willing to trade for price or space.
What are the 2026 BAH rates for Offutt AFB?
The 2026 BAH rates for the Omaha/Offutt AFB Military Housing Area (MHA NE192) range from $1,425 per month (E-1 through E-4 without dependents) to $3,279 per month (O-7 and above without dependents). With dependents, rates range from $1,887 (E-1 through E-4) to $3,279 (O-7+). Always verify your exact rate using the official DoD BAH calculator at militarypay.defense.gov — your confirmed duty station and dependency status determine your rate.
Does Nebraska tax military pay?
Nebraska taxes active-duty military pay for residents of Nebraska. However, federal law protects service members who claim legal residence in another state — if your home of record is a no-income-tax state, you generally do not owe Nebraska income tax on active-duty pay. Furthermore, combat zone income is excluded entirely. Importantly, military retirement pay became 100% exempt from Nebraska income tax beginning January 1, 2022. Consult a military tax advisor or your installation’s legal assistance office for guidance specific to your situation.
Are there property tax exemptions for veterans in Nebraska?
Yes. Nebraska provides a full homestead property tax exemption for veterans with a 100% service-connected permanent or temporary disability — with no income limits for qualifying categories. Veterans whose home was substantially contributed to by the VA (paraplegic/multiple amputee cases) also receive a full exemption regardless of income or home value. Additionally, starting January 1, 2026, all disabled and/or blind veterans can claim a Motor Vehicle Tax exemption on one vehicle. Applications go through your local county assessor.
What school districts serve Offutt AFB families?
Offutt has no on-base schools, so families attend schools in whichever district covers their off-base address. Specifically, the primary options are Bellevue Public Schools (most convenient for families near base), Papillion-La Vista School District (consistently high-performing), Ralston Public Schools, and Omaha Public Schools. Papillion-La Vista is generally considered the strongest academic district in the corridor. Contact the EFMP coordinator at Offutt — (402) 294-4329 — if your child has special needs requiring placement evaluation before you arrive.
How is the TRICARE coverage at Offutt AFB?
TRICARE at Offutt falls under the TRICARE West Region, administered by TriWest Healthcare Alliance. Prime enrollees use the Ehrling Bergquist Clinic on base for primary care — call 402-232-2273 for appointments. In contrast, Select enrollees can use any in-network provider in the greater Omaha metro. Additionally, the on-base pharmacy refill line is 402-581-9571, and a second pharmacy is located at 106 Meyer Ave on the installation.
Is it worth buying a home with a VA loan at Offutt AFB?
For most families planning to stay 3 or more years, buying with a VA loan in the Omaha–Bellevue–Papillion corridor is almost always the stronger financial move compared to renting. Nebraska’s housing market is one of the most affordable at any major duty station. Moreover, the VA loan’s zero down payment and no-PMI structure mean your monthly payment often runs roughly equal to or less than a comparable rental — and you build equity instead of paying a landlord. Property taxes run higher than the national average in Sarpy County, so factor that into your total monthly cost estimate before committing to a purchase price. Get your VA loan snapshot here.
What happens if I arrive at Offutt and on-base housing isn’t available?
Offutt has waitlists for certain rank brackets and housing configurations, so do not assume you will move directly into on-base housing. Instead, book temporary lodging at Offutt Inns (402-281-1292) or a nearby hotel in Bellevue or Papillion before your arrival. Additionally, reach out to the Housing Management Office (402-294-7412) to get on the waitlist as early as possible. Many families, furthermore, use the waitlist period to explore neighborhoods and decide whether off-base housing is a better long-term choice.
What is Nebraska like for military families beyond the base?
Nebraska genuinely surprises most PCSing families in a good way. The cost of living is below the national average, and the Omaha metro offers excellent restaurants, a world-class zoo (Henry Doorly Zoo), professional sports, and a thriving brewery scene — all without the traffic and congestion of larger metros. Winters are serious, with regular subzero temperatures and the occasional blizzard. Tornadoes, moreover, are a seasonal reality. However, the community is tight-knit, the schools are solid, and most military families who PCS to Offutt end up being glad they got those orders.
Does Nebraska offer any hunting and fishing benefits for military members?
Yes. Nonresident service members on active duty at a Nebraska installation can purchase Nebraska hunting and fishing licenses at in-state resident prices — a significant savings compared to nonresident rates. Active-duty members stationed in Nebraska can also purchase a reduced-fee vehicle park permit for just $5, valid for the entire calendar year. Contact the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission at 402-471-0641 or visit any participating state park office to apply.
Key Takeaways
- Nebraska means Offutt. It is the only active-duty installation in the state, and nearly all military PCS families in Nebraska are stationed there or at a National Guard facility.
- Your BAH goes far here. The 2026 Offutt BAH rates, combined with VA loan benefits (no down payment, no PMI), put homeownership within reach for most pay grades in the Bellevue–Papillion corridor.
- Know the tax reality. Nebraska taxes active-duty pay for legal residents, but not for service members whose home of record is in a no-income-tax state. Additionally, military retirement pay is 100% exempt. Consult a tax professional specific to your situation.
- Disabled veterans, file your exemptions. The 100% homestead property tax exemption and the new 2026 Motor Vehicle Tax exemption are real money — but you have to apply through your county assessor. Applications are due by June 30 each year.
- Plan your school district before you sign a lease. Your child’s school is determined by your off-base address. Papillion-La Vista is the highest-performing district near Offutt, while Bellevue Public Schools is the most military-familiar.
- Don’t count on on-base housing being available. Waitlists exist, so have a rental backup plan and contact the Housing Management Office (402-294-7412) as soon as your orders drop.
- Property taxes run higher than you expect. Sarpy County taxes are above the Nebraska and national average — therefore, factor the actual tax estimate into your monthly housing budget before you commit to a purchase price.
- Build your team early. Get connected with a military-experienced real estate agent and VA lender through the PCS Pay It Forward® network before PCS season heats up. Start here.
