Let the numbers do the talking.
Hastings, NE vs Kearney, NE
Hastings, NE vs Kearney, NE: What the data shows
Hastings, NE is in Hastings, NE while Kearney, NE is in Kearney, NE — both in the same state. On home prices, Hastings, NE is the more affordable option at $161,800 median — $49,500 less than Kearney, NE's $211,300. WYLT rates Hastings, NE as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Kearney, NE as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Kearney, NE has the stronger safety profile of the two. Hastings, NE has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Kearney, NE has Low violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Hastings, NE has Low flood risk and Kearney, NE has Low flood risk.
Hastings, NE is the more walkable neighborhood. Hastings, NE scores 44/100 (mostly car-dependent) versus Kearney, NE's 33/100 (mostly car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Kearney, NE has the higher school rating — Hastings, NE rates 7.8/10 and Kearney, NE rates 8.4/10.
| Category | Hastings, NE | Kearney, NE |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Think twice |
| Median Price | $162K ✓ Lower price | $211K |
| Median Rent | $815 ✓ Lower rent | $898 |
| Median Income | $60K | $67K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Low ✓ More stable |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 44/100 ✓ More walkable | 33/100 |
| Transit Score | 10/100 ✓ Better transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | N/A |
| Commute | N/A | 30 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | B ✓ Safer |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Low ✓ Lower risk |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 7.8/10 | 8.4/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | Families looking for low cost of livingRetirees seeking quietRemote workers who don’t need frequent commuting | Families with childrenFirst‑time homebuyersRetirees seeking low cost of living |
Bottom line
For families with children, I'd recommend Kearney due to its strong school rating. Those prioritizing a tight community and affordability may prefer Hastings, but must weigh its drawbacks. Generally, Hastings offers more value for those looking to escape a big city, whereas Kearney is a more conventional suburb that fits typical American expectations.
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