Buffalo County Communities
Buffalo County is the fifth-most populated county in Nebraska. The largest city in the county is Kearney, which is the county seat and among the most dynamic micropolitan cities in the Midwest, affording amenities usually found only in much larger communities.
Buffalo County Facts:
Population (2024): 51,245
Median age of residents: 35
Diversity index: 40.4
Cities
Population (2024): 34,645
Kearney is a growing city amidst a plentitude of opportunities. As the largest city in Buffalo County, Kearney appeals to all demographics. Families enjoy outstanding education and activities. Outdoor enthusiasts love the local recreation, whether kayaking the Kearney Water Trail through town or experiencing the Sandhill Crane Capital of the World. Other amenities include a fabulous downtown filled with unique shops and restaurants, while history and cultural buffs appreciate the ability to visit places like the Archway Museum.
Population (2024): 1,865
The City of Gibbon sits along U.S. Route 30 between Kearney and Grand Island, with the proximity to each offering large city advantages while maintaining the amenities of small-town life. Gibbon is a Leadership Certified Community through the Nebraska Department of Economic Development. Windmill State Recreation Area provides fishing, camping and more outdoor activities. At the same time, the Rowe Sanctuary brings awareness and appreciation of Sandhill Cranes and other wildlife to visitors’ attention. Primary industry focuses on manufacturing, retail and agriculture.
Population (2024): 1,499
The City of Ravenna holds nearly 1,500 residents and is a Leadership Certified Community through the Nebraska Department of Economic Development, near the northern boundary of Buffalo County. The South Loup River flows through the Buffalo County Recreation Area-Ravenna Lake, delivering fishing, canoeing, camping and more to visitors. Primary industry focuses on manufacturing, healthcare, social assistance and retail.
Villages
Population (2024): 228
The Village of Amherst is a rural community of just over 200 residents located northwest of Kearney. Students attend Amherst Public Schools, a cornerstone of local pride and activity. The community is rooted in agriculture, with family farms and ag-related businesses serving as the backbone of the local economy.
Population (2024): 989
The Village of Elm Creek is a small community approaching 1,000 residents west of Kearney along U.S. Route 30. K-12 students attend Elm Creek Public Schools and thousands of people visit the Buffalo Stampede Days each summer. Primary industry focuses on manufacturing and agriculture.
Population (2024): 131
Miller is an agriculturally driven village characterized by surrounding farmland and family-run operations. Most residents are employed in farming, ag‑support industries, or commute to nearby towns.
Population (2024): 347
Pleasanton is a small town nestled along the South Loup River 20 miles north of Kearney along Highway 10. It is a small thriving community with a great work ethic and a great place to raise a family. This small community is home to a preK-12 public school system, volunteer fire and EMT department and many amenities to accommodate the families that call Pleasanton home. The South Loup borders the village’s south side, delivering fishing, canoeing, camping and more to residents and visitors. Primary industry focuses on agriculture.
Population (204): 267
Riverdale is a village built around agriculture and grain-trading, positioned near the Loup River. Employment is centered on farming and agri-service; many residents commute to Kearney for work.
Population (2024): 1,019
The Village of Shelton is a historic community of just over 1,000 residents located along U.S. Highway 30 between Kearney and Grand Island. Founded in the 1860s, Shelton is home to a K-12 public school system and a strong agricultural tradition. Local employment centers around farming, education, municipal services, and small businesses.