Let the numbers do the talking.
Kearney, NE vs Lexington, NE
Kearney, NE vs Lexington, NE: What the data shows
Kearney, NE is in Kearney, NE while Lexington, NE is in Lexington, NE — both in the same state. On home prices, Lexington, NE is the more affordable option at $137,200 median — $74,100 less than Kearney, NE's $211,300. WYLT rates Kearney, NE as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Lexington, NE as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Kearney, NE has the stronger safety profile of the two. Kearney, NE has Low violent crime and Moderate property crime. Lexington, NE has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Kearney, NE has Low flood risk and Lexington, NE has High flood risk.
Kearney, NE is the more walkable neighborhood. Kearney, NE scores 33/100 (mostly car-dependent) versus Lexington, NE's N/A/100. For families weighing school quality, Kearney, NE has the higher school rating — Kearney, NE rates 8.4/10 and Lexington, NE rates 7.2/10.
| Category | Kearney, NE | Lexington, NE |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Think twice |
| Median Price | $211K | $137K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $898 ✓ Lower rent | $920 |
| Median Income | $67K | $67K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Low ✓ More stable | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 33/100 ✓ More walkable | Car-dependent |
| Transit Score | Minimal transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | N/A |
| Commute | 30 min ✓ Shorter commute | 45 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | B ✓ Safer | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Low ✓ Lower risk | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low ✓ Lower risk | High |
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 8.4/10 ✓ Better schools | 7.2/10 |
| Best for | Families with childrenFirst‑time homebuyersRetirees seeking low cost of living | Families seeking affordable homesRetirees looking for low cost of livingPeople willing to commute to larger jobs |
Bottom line
Both Kearney and Lexington are suitable for families seeking affordable homes and a quiet living environment, but Kearney might be a better fit for families with children due to its slightly better schools and lower flood risk. Lexington is more suitable for retirees or remote workers who prioritize a low cost of living over local amenities, as its commute to larger cities is relatively long. Overall, the decision ultimately comes down to your personal priorities and trade-offs.
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