Let the numbers do the talking.
Blair, NE vs Kearney, NE
Blair, NE vs Kearney, NE: What the data shows
Blair, NE is in Blair, NE while Kearney, NE is in Kearney, NE — both in the same state. On home prices, Kearney, NE is the more affordable option at $211,300 median — $33,400 less than Blair, NE's $244,700. WYLT rates Blair, NE as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Kearney, NE as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Both neighborhoods have similar safety profiles. Blair, NE has Low violent crime and Moderate property crime. Kearney, NE has Low violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Blair, NE has Low flood risk and Kearney, NE has Low flood risk.
Kearney, NE is the more walkable neighborhood. Blair, NE scores 7/100 (car-dependent) versus Kearney, NE's 33/100 (mostly car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Kearney, NE has the higher school rating — Blair, NE rates 7.1/10 and Kearney, NE rates 8.4/10.
| Category | Blair, NE | Kearney, NE |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Think twice |
| Median Price | $245K | $211K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $921 | $898 ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $87K ✓ Higher income | $67K |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Low ✓ More stable |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 7/100 | 33/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | Minimal transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | N/A |
| Commute | 30 min | 30 min ✓ Shorter commute |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | B | B |
| Violent Crime | Low | Low |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 7.1/10 | 8.4/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | Families looking for good schoolsFirst‑time home buyersRemote workers needing a quiet environment | Families with childrenFirst‑time homebuyersRetirees seeking low cost of living |
Bottom line
For families with children, Kearney's stronger schools and lower flood risk make it a slightly better option. However, for people seeking a walkable, vibrant community with more amenities, Blair is a better choice. Ultimately, the decision comes down to whether good schools outweigh the desire for local amenities and a more urban lifestyle.
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