Living in Council Bluffs, Iowa, is all about finding that perfect mix of community, comfort, and convenience—and nowhere is this blend more apparent than in The Hills of Cedar Creek neighborhood. Tucked away just off Greenview Road and North Broadway, The Hills of Cedar Creek offers residents a unique suburban retreat within easy reach of city amenities. If you’re considering a move to Council Bluffs, here’s an inside look at what makes this neighborhood stand out.
Community Vibe: Friendly, Connected, and Welcoming
The Hills of Cedar Creek is widely known among locals for its tranquil, welcoming atmosphere. Streets like Cedarview Drive, Creekside Circle, and Aspen Court wind gently through the neighborhood, lined by well-kept lawns and mature trees. Newcomers often remark on how neighbors wave from front porches, organize block parties in the summer, and look out for one another. It’s the kind of community where children play together in safe cul-de-sacs and families greet each other by name during evening walks.
Residents describe the overall vibe as “peaceful, but not isolated.” Whether you’re a young professional seeking a quiet space to recharge or a family hoping for a true sense of belonging, The Hills of Cedar Creek offers both privacy and connection.
Types of Housing: Contemporary Comfort Meets Variety
A standout feature of The Hills of Cedar Creek is its housing diversity. The neighborhood mainly consists of single-family homes, with a pleasing mix of contemporary ranches, traditional two-story houses, and split-level designs. Many homes boast three to five bedrooms, roomy basements, attached garages, and larger-than-average yards—a rarity in some parts of Council Bluffs.
Homes, especially those on Cedarwood Lane and Hillcrest Drive, are known for their tasteful landscaping and modern finishes. Several homes back onto the wooded areas or scenic green belts that wind through the neighborhood, providing extra privacy and a natural buffer from street noise.
Walkability: Safe, Serene Streets
The neighborhood’s quiet, softly curving streets and wide sidewalks make it ideal for strolls, jogging, or walking the dog. While The Hills of Cedar Creek isn’t a fully walkable urban neighborhood (you’ll need a car for most errands), its internal walkability is a huge perk for families with young children and anyone who enjoys a daily walk. Morning joggers and kids on bikes are a common sight, especially around the neighborhood entrances off Greenview Road and Cedarwood Lane.
Residents love that traffic is light, and with well-marked crosswalks and reduced speed limits, safety is clearly a priority in the neighborhood design.
Schools and Family-Friendliness: Top Marks for Education
If education is at the top of your priority list, you’ll feel right at home here. The neighborhood falls within the highly-rated Lewis Central Community School District, with nearby schools like Kreft Primary School and Titan Hill Intermediate School just a short drive away. Many local families appreciate the tight-knit PTA network and the fact that kids often ride the bus together or cycle to nearby friends’ houses after school.
The Hills of Cedar Creek is also known for being especially family-oriented:
- Lots of playground space and cul-de-sacs for safe play.
- Seasonal events like neighborhood barbecues, Halloween group trick-or-treating, and festive holiday lights create lasting memories.
Parks and Green Spaces: Nature at Your Doorstep
One of the defining features of The Hills of Cedar Creek is its abundant greenery. Cedar Creek winds along the edge of the neighborhood, complemented by mature oaks and maples that give fall walks a magical glow. While the neighborhood doesn’t have a formal city park within its boundaries, nearby Rainbow Park and Valley View Park are local favorites and just a short bike ride away.
Residents often mention:
- The creekside walking trails that border the neighborhood, great for pets, runners, and nature lovers.
- Quick access to the Wabash Trace Nature Trail, a regional favorite for hiking and biking.
For those seeking more active recreation, the close-by Council Bluffs Rec Complex offers soccer fields and basketball courts, expanding the options for local families.
Safety: Peace of Mind Around Every Corner
Safety is a top concern for any potential resident, and The Hills of Cedar Creek provides plenty of peace of mind. The area is known for its low crime rates and responsive neighborhood watch group. Many families feel comfortable letting their children play outside or walk to friends’ houses, thanks to the quiet streets and strong sense of vigilance among neighbors.
Regular communication via neighborhood Facebook groups ensures everyone stays informed about community news or unusual activity, strengthening the collective sense of security.
Proximity to Downtown and Major Employers
Living in The Hills of Cedar Creek means enjoying a suburban oasis without sacrificing easy access to work and play. Downtown Council Bluffs is less than 15 minutes away by car, making it a quick commute for those employed by the city, local healthcare providers, or regional banks. Additionally, the neighborhood’s position just off North Broadway and close to I-80 provides direct routes into Omaha for anyone working across the river.
Key landmarks nearby include:
- The Council Bluffs Country Club (just south on Madison Avenue)
- Shopping and dining zones around Kanesville Boulevard
- Local grocery options like Fareway and Hy-Vee within a five-minute drive
What Residents Love Most
Ask people what they love about The Hills of Cedar Creek, and you’ll hear the same themes repeat:
- The calm, scenic setting that makes it easy to unwind after a long day.
- Neighbors who become friends—whether it’s through summer BBQs or helping shovel driveways after a snowfall.
- The sense of safety—especially important for families and retirees.
- Proximity to everything, paired with the peaceful feeling of being “a world away” from city hustle.
Longtime resident Linda M. says, “We moved here for the schools and stayed for the people. Our kids can bike to friends’ houses, we walk the trails every weekend, and we always feel at home.”
Final Thoughts
The Hills of Cedar Creek isn’t just a place to buy a house—it’s a place to put down roots. With its friendly community, spacious homes, excellent schools, and lush green spaces, it strikes an ideal balance for anyone seeking comfort and connection in Council Bluffs. If you’re searching for a neighborhood where quality of life comes first, look no further than this welcoming corner of town.