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.
As of 2024 the population of Kearney is 34,645. The population is expected to grow to 35,491 by 2029 - a growth rate of 0.48%.
The median age of Kearney residents is 33.
The diversity index of Kearney is 43.1, meaning that there is a 43% chance that any two people selected out of 100 residents will be of different race or ethnicity from one another.
The average household income in Kearney is $88,072 and projected to be $101,021 in 2029. Per capita income is $35,770, projected to be $41,179 in 2029. 2.55% of households – 883 – have an income of $200,000 or higher. Average net worth is $769,857 and the average disposable income is $67,876.
There are 14,949 housing units in Kearney; 7,858 are owner-occupied, 6,161 are rented, and 930 are vacant. The average home value is $264,403, with 1,564 homes built in 2010 or later, and 1,635 built in 1939 or earlier.
There are 1,811 businesses in Kearney, employing 27,518 workers and pulling from a labor force of 18,404 age 16 and above. 1,349 workers commute into Kearney from outside the county or state. Key industries for the area include:
17,015 residents both live and work in/around Kearney. The average travel time is 0.0 minutes. 6.75% people have a commute of less than 5 minutes while 1.91% commute 90 minutes or more each way. Of commuters, 15,279 drive alone, 1,832 carpool, and 34 take public transportation. 468 use other modes of transport such as motorcycle, bicycle, walking, etc. 780 residents work from home.
5,376 members of the workforce hold a high school diploma or GED. 2,106 have associates degrees, 5,614 have bachelor’s degrees, and 3,007 hold a graduate or professional degree.