Nebraska. “I’ve had so many opportunities to leave, but I see there is a lot of opportunity and potential here,” he said. A WELCOMING STATE FOR VETERANS Thankful for returning to Omaha after military service, Creasy credits Nebraska’s strong job market, affordability, and veteran-friendly culture for making the transition seamless. Nebraska has the highest labor force participation rate of any state, and the fifth-highest veterans’ employment rate in the nation. Omaha ranks among the top five U.S. metros for first-time homebuyer affordability. Home to Offutt Air Force Base, the Omaha area has an especially strong military presence. Offutt employs approximately 10,800 military and civilian personnel. In addition, an estimated 26,000 military retirees live within 75 miles of the base. Nebraskans proudly support the state’s military members and veterans. “There are tons of benefits available to veterans,” Creasy said. “Getting free access to state parks, lifetime hunting and fishing passes, and local memberships. We’re a very pro-veteran state.” Nebraska also exempts military retirement benefits from state income tax. Creasy also pointed out that local organizations such as At Ease, Major Talent, and Team Red, White & Blue provide PTSD counseling, career services, and health and wellness programs to veterans. AN ESCAPE FROM THE HUSTLE & BUSTLE Exploring different regions of the state—which stretches 430 miles from east to west—has further deepened Creasy’s connection to Nebraska. “I didn’t feel like a true Nebraskan until I went out west, going all the way to Scottsbluff and Chimney Rock,” he said. Creasy’s travels across the state have reinforced his admiration of Nebraska. “It’s a really safe place. There are a lot of great opportunities for kids, and it’s very friendly and welcoming,” he attested. “There are opportunities to move up [professionally], but there’s also work-life balance here,” he added. “You don’t have to be part of the hustle and bustle.” THE GOOD LIFE IS CALLING Interested in learning more about living and working in Nebraska? Connect with the Good Life Is Calling team at thegoodlifeiscalling.com/connect. Veterans can explore additional benefits of living in Nebraska at veterans.nebraska.gov/benefits-and-services-overview. This article is republished with permission from the Nebraska Department of Economic Development. It has been edited for length and clarity. 29 nescpa.org
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