Let the numbers do the talking.
Kearney, NE vs Seward, NE
Kearney, NE vs Seward, NE: What the data shows
Kearney, NE is in Kearney, NE while Seward, NE is in Seward, NE — both in the same state. On home prices, Kearney, NE is the more affordable option at $211,300 median — $22,400 less than Seward, NE's $233,700. WYLT rates Kearney, NE as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Seward, NE as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Seward, NE has the stronger safety profile of the two. Kearney, NE has Low violent crime and Moderate property crime. Seward, NE has Low violent crime and Low property crime. On environmental risk, Kearney, NE has Low flood risk and Seward, NE has Low flood risk.
Kearney, NE is the more walkable neighborhood. Kearney, NE scores 33/100 (mostly car-dependent) versus Seward, NE's 26/100 (mostly car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Kearney, NE has the higher school rating — Kearney, NE rates 8.4/10 and Seward, NE rates 7.5/10.
| Category | Kearney, NE | Seward, NE |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Think twice |
| Median Price | $211K ✓ Lower price | $234K |
| Median Rent | $898 ✓ Lower rent | $921 |
| Median Income | $67K | $80K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Low ✓ More stable | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 33/100 ✓ More walkable | 26/100 |
| Transit Score | Minimal transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | N/A |
| Commute | 30 min ✓ Shorter commute | 60 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | B | A ✓ Safer |
| Violent Crime | Low | Low |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Low ✓ Lower risk |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 8.4/10 ✓ Better schools | 7.5/10 |
| Best for | Families with childrenFirst‑time homebuyersRetirees seeking low cost of living | FamiliesSmall‑town livingAffordable housing |
Bottom line
For someone who values being a local employee or remote worker, Kearney's shorter commutes and more affordable housing make it a slightly better choice. Families with children might prefer Kearney's better-ranked schools, but Seward's quiet atmosphere and low cost of living still make it worth considering. Ultimately, both neighborhoods are "Think twice" options due to their car-dependent nature and limited local amenities.
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