From the VeteranPCS Team Updated May 2025

TL;DR: Offutt AFB offers a lower cost of living than many military installations, strong schools, and a welcoming community in the Omaha area. The base is experiencing growth with the recent activation of the 95th Wing and continued flood recovery improvements. This guide covers housing, schools, healthcare, recreation, and insider tips to make your PCS transition smoother.

If you've received orders to Offutt Air Force Base, congratulations! While Nebraska might not be the first place you imagine for your next assignment, the Omaha metropolitan area offers military families an exceptional quality of life with affordable housing, excellent schools, and numerous amenities. This comprehensive guide will help you navigate your PCS move and settle into your new assignment with confidence.

What's New at Offutt in 2025

Offutt AFB has undergone significant changes recently that incoming personnel should know about:

• The 95th Wing Activation: In March 2025, Offutt celebrated the activation of the 95th Wing, which incorporated the 595th Command and Control Group and units from Wyoming National Guard and Air Force Reserve Command. According to Col. Leaumont, the wing commander, this could eventually bring "500-700 more people" to the base over the next decade as they transition to new aircraft. This growth means increased opportunities and resources for military families.
• New Logistics Readiness Squadron Campus: In March 2025, Offutt opened a new Logistics Readiness Squadron campus facility, nearly six years after the previous one was destroyed in the 2019 flood. This 26,575-square-foot facility is part of the base's ongoing recovery efforts.
• Major Military Exercises: Offutt conducted its "largest and most intensive military exercise" in base history from March 31-April 4, 2025. Periodic exercises are common, so newcomers should be prepared for occasional increased activity and "Giant Voice" announcements.

Understanding Offutt's Mission and Structure

Offutt serves as a critical hub for national defense operations:

• Headquarters of U.S. Strategic Command (USSTRATCOM): This unified combatant command oversees the nation's nuclear arsenal, space operations, global strike capabilities, and missile defense.
• Home to the 55th Wing: As the host unit at Offutt, the 55th Wing conducts intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, and electronic warfare missions worldwide.
• 557th Weather Wing: Provides critical weather intelligence for military operations globally.
• The New 95th Wing: Focused on nuclear command, control, and communications capabilities.

Approximately 10,000 military and federal employees work at Offutt, creating a diverse and dynamic community with global responsibilities.

Housing Options: On-Base and Off-Base Living

Military Housing Through Rising View

Rising View manages the privatized military housing at Offutt, offering both on-base and off-base options:

• On-Base Housing (Kaufman Heights): Provides convenient access to base facilities but may have waiting lists for certain unit types.
• Off-Base Housing in Bellevue: Rising View also manages military housing in Bellevue, offering easy base access while avoiding some on-base living restrictions.

Important Housing Note: For 2025, Offutt's Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) is ranked 27th highest among Air Force bases, with service members with dependents receiving 25% more BAH than those without. Check the current BAH rates at Military.com's BAH Calculator when planning your housing budget.

Recommended Neighborhoods Near Offutt

If you're considering living off-base outside of Rising View properties, here are top areas to consider:

Bellevue: The closest city to Offutt with a large military population. Benefits include short commute times, military-friendly businesses, and properties designed with service members in mind.

Papillion: Consistently ranked among America's best small cities, Papillion offers excellent schools, family-friendly neighborhoods, and a small-town feel while still providing easy access to Offutt (typical commute: 15-20 minutes).

La Vista: A growing suburb with newer housing developments and good shopping options, located just west of Offutt.

Omaha Neighborhoods:

• Midtown: Cultural hub with historic neighborhoods and urban amenities
• West Omaha: Newer developments with excellent schools and shopping
• Downtown/Old Market: Historic district with loft apartments and vibrant nightlife

2025 Housing Market Alert: The Omaha housing market remains highly competitive, particularly for homes under $400,000. According to a March 2025 U.S. News & World Report analysis, the Omaha metropolitan area ranks as the hottest housing market in America with a score of 76.2 on their 100-point scale. Consider working with a real estate agent experienced with military relocations to navigate this competitive market.

Schools and Education

The Omaha metro area boasts several excellent school districts:

Bellevue Public Schools: Most convenient for families living near Offutt, with schools familiar with military children's needs.

Papillion-La Vista School District: Consistently high-performing with excellent facilities and programs.

Millard Public Schools: Known for strong academics and extracurricular programs.

Omaha Public Schools: Offers specialized magnet programs and diverse educational opportunities.

For families with children with special needs, contact the Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP) at Offutt for assistance with finding appropriate educational resources.

Healthcare Options at Offutt

Offutt's healthcare options include:

• Ehrling Bergquist Clinic: The main medical facility on base for TRICARE Prime enrollees, offering primary care and limited specialty services.
• TRICARE Coverage: Offutt uses TRICARE TriWest, with families enrolled in TRICARE Prime assigned to the Ehrling Bergquist Clinic, while those with TRICARE Select can visit any network provider in the area.
• Off-Base Options: The Omaha area has excellent healthcare facilities, including:
  • CHI Health System
  • Nebraska Medicine
  • Methodist Health System
  • Children's Hospital & Medical Center (for pediatric care)