Douglas County, Nebraska is a vibrant and diverse area with a wide range of neighborhoods to explore. From the bustling cityscape of Omaha to the charming suburbs of Elkhorn, there is something for everyone in this county. But what drives the economy in Douglas County? What are the top industries and employers that keep this county thriving?
The Economic Landscape of Douglas County
Before delving into the top industries and employers, it's important to understand the overall economic landscape of Douglas County. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the median household income in Douglas County is $62,260, slightly higher than the national average of $61,937. The unemployment rate is also lower than the national average at 3.1%.The largest industry in Douglas County is healthcare and social assistance, followed by retail trade and accommodation and food services. However, there are several other industries that play a significant role in the county's economy.
The Top Industries in Douglas County
Healthcare and Social Assistance: As mentioned earlier, this is the largest industry in Douglas County. With major hospitals like Nebraska Medicine and CHI Health located in the county, it's no surprise that healthcare is a major contributor to the economy.In addition to hospitals, there are also numerous clinics, nursing homes, and home health care services that provide employment opportunities.
Manufacturing:
Manufacturing is another important industry in Douglas County. Companies like Union Pacific Railroad and Valmont Industries have a significant presence in the county. In fact, Union Pacific Railroad's headquarters is located in Omaha, making it one of the largest employers in the area.Finance and Insurance:
With the headquarters of major financial institutions like First National Bank and Mutual of Omaha located in Douglas County, it's no surprise that finance and insurance is a top industry. These companies provide employment opportunities not only in traditional banking and insurance roles, but also in areas like IT and customer service.Education:
Douglas County is home to several colleges and universities, including the University of Nebraska at Omaha and Creighton University.These institutions not only provide education to students, but also employment opportunities for faculty and staff.
Information Technology:
As technology continues to advance, the demand for IT professionals has also increased. Companies like PayPal and Google have offices in Douglas County, providing employment opportunities in areas like software development, data analysis, and cybersecurity.The Top Employers in Douglas County
Offutt Air Force Base: Located in Bellevue, Offutt Air Force Base is the largest employer in Douglas County. It is home to the U. Strategic Command and provides employment opportunities for military personnel as well as civilians.University of Nebraska Medical Center:
As one of the top medical schools in the country, the University of Nebraska Medical Center is a major employer in Douglas County.In addition to medical professionals, the university also employs individuals in research, administration, and support roles.
Union Pacific Railroad:
As mentioned earlier, Union Pacific Railroad has its headquarters in Omaha and is one of the largest employers in the county. The company employs individuals in various roles such as train conductors, engineers, and administrative staff.First National Bank:
With its headquarters located in Omaha, First National Bank is one of the largest privately held banks in the country. The bank employs individuals in various roles such as banking, finance, and customer service.CHI Health:
CHI Health is a major healthcare provider in Douglas County, with several hospitals and clinics located throughout the county. The company employs individuals in various roles such as doctors, nurses, and administrative staff.Conclusion
Douglas County, Nebraska is a diverse and thriving area with a strong economy.The top industries and employers in the county provide a wide range of employment opportunities for its residents. From healthcare to finance to education, there is no shortage of industries driving the economy in Douglas County. As the county continues to grow and develop, it will be interesting to see how these industries evolve and shape the economic landscape in the future.
