Buffalo County Livability
Families choose Kearney and the surrounding Buffalo County communities for their outstanding quality of life.
Buffalo County is widely regarded as one of Nebraska’s most livable areas, offering an appealing blend of affordability, safety, community amenities and Midwestern charm.
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Welcome to Kearney, NE
The Kearney area offers an outstanding quality of life, great affordability, excellent education, and a wealth of job opportunities.
Kearney is a blossoming city that’s home to everything residents might need or desire. Enjoy theatrical performances and live music, various must-try restaurants and breweries, community events, wildlife sanctuaries and over 20 miles of paved trails.
Learn more about the Kearney area on these partner websites:
Outdoor Amenities
Buffalo County is a top destination for outdoor adventure including multiple state recreation areas, fishing, camping, sandhill crane viewing, and more.
Sports Teams
Kearney is home to the Division II Lopers and TriCity Storm Hockey. There is also a new 200,000 square-foot indoor sports complex, attracting numerous events.
Arts & Culture
Buffalo County is home to the Museum of Nebraska Art and a variety of theater and musical groups that feature performances by local talent and nationally known artists.
Shopping and Dining
Kearney is home to the Hilltop Mall and many national retailers, while the surrounding area offers many vibrant restaurants, breweries, and unique boutiques to suit every shopping and dining preference.
Housing in Buffalo County
Buffalo County understands the need to provide housing for all who need it. From the larger population center of Kearney to the smallest communities throughout the county, diverse housing options are plentiful and available.
New single-family homes are available in neighborhoods like Millennial Estates, while modern apartments and townhomes provide comfortable community living. Several Buffalo County communities also offer affordable housing options through active participation in HUD Section 8 services.
A highlight of local development is University Village, a vibrant, walkable neighborhood next to the University of Nebraska at Kearney. This area features student housing, upscale urban apartments, a UNK Education Center, the indoor Grundy Tennis Center, and a Regional Engagement Center with state-of-the-art office and meeting spaces. Planned additions include expanded cancer services from Nebraska Medicine, single-family homes, senior living communities, parks, wetlands, and more.
Real estate professionals in Buffalo County:
Low Cost of Living
Buffalo County residents appreciate the area’s affordable cost of living. Here, families and individuals can enjoy a higher quality of life and get more value for their money than in many other parts of the country.
Education
From outstanding school districts throughout the county to dynamic post-secondary options in Kearney, students and families receive a phenomenal start to their lives and careers in Buffalo County.
Public and private school districts throughout the county combine challenging academic options with safe learning environments to deliver valuable educational opportunities for all students in the county.
Consistently ranked as one of the best public school systems in the state, Buffalo County’s 20 public schools include some of the most highly respected elementary, middle and high schools in Nebraska. Along with PK-12 education, Buffalo County’s schools also provide vocational training and adult education.
Public PK-12 Schools:
- Kearney Public Schools
- Amherst Public Schools
- Gibbon Public Schools
- Shelton Public Schools
- Pleasanton Public Schools
- Elm Creek Public Schools
- Ravenna Public Schools
Private Schools:
- Kearney Catholic High School 6-12
- Faith Christian School - preK-8
- Zion Lutheran School - preK - 8
Colleges and Universities
Healthcare
Buffalo County residents appreciate the area’s affordable cost of living. Here, families and individuals can enjoy a higher quality of life and get more value for their money than in many other parts of the country.