countyscore
61.6
County Score
Water Quality 86Health 83.3Income & Jobs 82.9

County Report Card

About Kearney County, Nebraska

A Top-Tier National Livability Performer

Kearney County’s composite score of 61.5 puts it firmly ahead of the national median of 50.0. It ranks among the more desirable counties in the country for overall well-being.

Exceeding the Nebraska Quality Standard

The county ranks above the Nebraska state average of 59.3, indicating a high standard of living. It maintains a strong position among its regional peers for infrastructure and economy.

High Incomes and Pristine Water

Economic prosperity is a major strength, evidenced by an Income score of 82.9 and a median household income of $79,167. Residents also enjoy exceptional water quality with a score of 86.0.

Higher Costs and Tax Pressures

Affordability is the main challenge, as seen in the Tax score of 24.4 and Cost score of 45.8. Median home values of $218,300 are higher than several neighboring Nebraska counties.

Best for Prosperous, Health-Focused Families

Kearney County is a great fit for established professionals who value high-quality utilities and strong health services. It trades raw affordability for superior economic opportunity and environmental health.

Score breakdown

Tax24.4Cost45.8Safety76.1Health83.3Schools68.8Income82.9Risk69.1Water86Weather40.3
🏛24.4
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠45.8
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼82.9
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡76.1
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤83.3
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓68.8
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡69.1
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤40.3
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨66.7
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱54.8
Lawn Care
Lawn difficulty score based on climate, soil, and grass suitability
LawnByCounty →
🛒
Farmers Markets
Local market density, SNAP/EBT acceptance, and product variety
MarketsByCounty →
Sponsored

Think property taxes are too high in Kearney County?

Many homeowners in Kearney County pay more than they should. A professional appeal could save you hundreds per year.

Check My Assessment

Explore this county

Property Taxtaxbycounty.comCost of Livingcostbycounty.comIncome & Jobsincomebycounty.comSafetycrimebycounty.comHealthhealthbycounty.comSchoolsschoolsbycounty.comDisaster Riskriskbycounty.comWater Qualitywaterbycounty.comWeather & Climateweatherbycounty.comSoil Qualitysoilbycounty.comLawn Carelawnbycounty.comFarmers Marketsmarketsbycounty.comView on Mapcountyscore.com/map
Compare Kearney County with Carroll County →Share on X

Counties with similar scores

Carroll County
Indiana
Median income: $64,003
61.6
Emmet County
Iowa
Median income: $65,181
61.6
Hancock County
Iowa
Median income: $70,212
61.6
Larue County
Kentucky
Median income: $67,770
61.6
Cook County
Minnesota
Median income: $71,643
61.6
Sanborn County
South Dakota
Median income: $69,870
61.6
Henderson County
Illinois
Median income: $65,651
61.7
Carroll County
Iowa
Median income: $68,528
61.5

Nearby counties

Adams County
Nebraska
39.8
Buffalo County
Nebraska
38.6
Franklin County
Nebraska
68.2
Phelps County
Nebraska
64.7
Webster County
Nebraska
65
Hall County
Nebraska
35.5
Harlan County
Nebraska
69
Clay County
Nebraska
66.1

Deep Dives

Kearney County across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 10 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in Kearney County

via TaxByCounty

Kearney County taxes slightly below national average

With an effective tax rate of 1.225%, Kearney County falls just below the national median of 1.281%. Despite this favorable rate, the county's median property tax of $2,675 matches the national median, reflecting higher home values in the area.

Below-average taxes for Nebraska

Kearney County's 1.225% effective rate ranks it in the lower-tax half of Nebraska counties, 5% below the state average of 1.281%. Only about 40 Nebraska counties maintain lower tax rates than Kearney.

Lowest rate in central Nebraska cluster

Kearney County's 1.225% significantly undercuts neighboring Phelps and Harlan counties. This makes Kearney an attractive option for property owners seeking lower tax burdens in central Nebraska.

Median home owner pays $2,675 annually

The median Kearney County home valued at $218,300 generates an annual property tax of $2,675. With mortgage escrow included, homeowners typically remit $3,137 yearly to cover property taxes and related obligations.

Challenge your assessment to lower tax bills

Many homeowners don't realize their properties may be overstated in county assessments, sometimes by thousands of dollars. Kearney County residents can request a free reassessment review if they believe their valuation is inequitable or excessive.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Kearney County

via CostByCounty

Kearney County achieves rare affordability balance

Kearney County residents spend just 11.9% of their income on rent—one of the most comfortable affordability ratios in the nation. With a median household income of $79,167, nearly $5,000 above the U.S. average, renters here enjoy substantial breathing room in their budgets.

Nebraska's affordability champion for renters

Kearney County's 11.9% rent-to-income ratio sits well below Nebraska's 14.2% state average, making it one of the most affordable counties statewide. This strong position reflects both reasonable rents ($787/month) and above-average incomes that give renters genuine housing security.

Higher income, similar rents set Kearney apart

Kearney County's $787 rent matches adjacent counties but its $79,167 median income significantly outpaces Johnson County ($59,457) and Keith County ($58,132). This income advantage makes Kearney renters the most financially comfortable in the region.

Kearney's housing divides nearly even

Renters pay $787 monthly while homeowners invest $1,081 in mortgages on a median home value of $218,300. Housing consumes about 14% of household income across both tenure types—allowing families to allocate meaningful resources toward savings and other needs.

Kearney County rewards higher earners

If relocating with above-average income, Kearney County offers exceptional affordability with homes valued at $218,300 and strong rental availability at $787/month. You'll find your housing costs consume 12-14% of income—below national and state averages—freeing capital for quality of life investments.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Kearney County

via IncomeByCounty

Kearney County Exceeds National Average

Kearney County's median household income of $79,167 tops the national median of $74,755 by $4,412, positioning it in the upper tier of U.S. counties. This strong earnings advantage reflects robust local economic activity and workforce quality.

Nebraska's Earnings Leader

At $79,167, Kearney County ranks first among Nebraska's eight profiled counties and significantly outpaces the state average of $66,880 by $12,287. The county's per capita income of $41,967 also leads the state average of $36,101 by nearly $6,000.

Clear Income Advantage Over Peers

Kearney County's $79,167 median household income substantially exceeds its nearest competitor, Lancaster County at $72,625—a $6,542 advantage. The county outearns the regional average by 33%, reflecting stronger agricultural and business sectors.

Strong Earnings Support Higher Home Prices

Kearney County's 11.9% rent-to-income ratio is the lowest among all eight counties, indicating excellent housing affordability. A median home value of $218,300 remains manageable given the county's strong median household income.

Leverage Above-Average Earnings for Growth

Kearney County residents enjoy income advantages that enable aggressive wealth-building through diversified investments, home equity strategies, and retirement savings. Taking full advantage of 401(k) matching and exploring real estate investment opportunities can amplify long-term financial security.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Kearney County

via CrimeByCounty

Kearney County Ranks High for National Safety

Kearney County records 571.0 crimes per 100,000 residents, a rate that is nearly four times lower than the national figure of 2,385.5. This strong performance results in a high safety score of 99.1.

Surpassing Nebraska State Safety Averages

The county's safety profile sits slightly above the state average of 99.0. Residents benefit from a total crime rate that remains below Nebraska's average of 626.7.

Stable Safety Compared to Neighboring Counties

Compared to Keith County's rate of 1,445.3, Kearney remains one of the more secure regions in this part of the state. It maintains a peaceful environment even as neighboring areas see more activity.

Violent Crime Trends Well Below National Levels

Violent crime stands at 90.2 per 100,000, which is roughly one-fourth of the national rate. Property crime remains the primary concern at 480.8, though this is still exceptionally low compared to the U.S. average of 2,015.7.

Individual Vigilance Supports Community Safety

Maintaining low crime rates depends on community vigilance and individual home security. Simple measures like door reinforcements help keep Kearney’s property crime figures well below state averages.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Kearney County

via HealthByCounty

Kearney County leads on longevity

At 79.6 years, Kearney County residents enjoy a life expectancy nearly 3.2 years above the U.S. average of 76.4 years. Only 15.5% report poor or fair health, suggesting strong overall wellness in this rural Nebraska community.

Nebraska's longevity standout

Kearney County's 79.6-year life expectancy is 2.1 years above Nebraska's state average of 77.5 years, making it one of the state's healthiest counties. Its 6.5% uninsured rate also beats the state average of 8.1% significantly.

Best life expectancy in the region

Kearney County's 79.6-year life expectancy tops regional neighbors like Johnson County (77.9) and Keith County (77.1). Its provider availability is strong, with 30 primary care and 44 mental health providers per 100K—among the best regionally.

Strong coverage, solid provider access

Only 6.5% of Kearney County residents are uninsured, and they have good access to both primary care and mental health providers. These factors work together to support preventive care and early treatment of health issues.

Keep your coverage active

Kearney County has one of Nebraska's best health profiles, but maintaining insurance is essential. Visit healthcare.gov or Nebraska's state marketplace to review your options and stay covered.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Kearney County

via SchoolsByCounty

Diverse School Mix in Kearney County

Kearney County supports 1,331 students through 7 public schools organized into 3 distinct districts. The infrastructure is well-balanced with 3 elementary schools, 1 middle school, and 3 high schools serving the growing student body.

High Success Rates with Efficient Spending

The county boasts a 91.0% graduation rate, significantly outperforming the national average of 87.0%. Educators achieve these results with a per-pupil expenditure of $9,173, which is considerably lower than the state average of $10,521 and the national average of $13,000.

Minden Public Schools Drives Enrollment

Minden Public Schools is the largest district, educating 820 students across 3 schools, while Axtell Community Schools serves another 335 students. No charter schools operate in the county, as traditional public districts manage 100% of the student population.

Balancing Town and Rural Environments

The county features a mix of 3 town-based schools and 4 rural locations, with an average school size of 190 students. C L Jones Middle School is the largest facility with 324 students, while Axtell High School provides a smaller high school experience for 135 students.

Relocate Near Top-Performing Schools

The high graduation rates in Minden and Axtell make Kearney County an attractive destination for families prioritizing education. Consider local real estate near these districts to secure a home in a community that consistently delivers academic results.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Kearney County

via RiskByCounty

Kearney County's disaster risk

Kearney County scores 30.95 on the national composite risk scale, earning a Very Low rating. This places it solidly above the national average but reflects manageable overall exposure to natural hazards.

Moderate risk for Nebraska

Kearney County's composite risk of 30.95 sits slightly above Nebraska's state average of 25.80, indicating slightly elevated vulnerability compared to some neighboring counties. Tornado risk particularly contributes to this above-average standing.

Compared to nearby counties

Kearney County faces higher composite risk (30.95) than Johnson County (4.58) and Keith County (13.77), but lower risk than Knox County (29.71) and Lincoln County (48.57). Its profile places it in the mid-range for the region.

Your top natural hazards

Tornado risk dominates Kearney County at 35.78—the county's most significant hazard exposure. Earthquake risk (11.16) and wildfire risk (21.72) present secondary concerns but remain relatively moderate.

Insurance for peace of mind

Tornado coverage should be a priority for Kearney County residents, as the county faces notably higher tornado risk than the national average. Standard homeowners policies typically don't cover tornadoes; consider a separate policy or rider.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Kearney County

via WeatherByCounty

A temperate continental climate

Kearney County averages 50.5°F annually, placing it slightly below the national median temperature. It experiences the wide thermal swings typical of the central United States.

Aligning with state norms

The county's 50.5°F average is very close to the Nebraska state average of 49.7°F. Precipitation levels of 25.7 inches also mirror the state average of 25.9 inches.

Drier than its eastern neighbors

Kearney is noticeably drier than Lancaster County, which receives 31.0 inches of precipitation. However, it stays warmer than northern Knox County's 49.1°F average.

Thirty-eight days of extreme heat

Summer heat is intense with 38 days hitting 90°F or higher and a July average of 75.9°F. Winters are cold and snowy, averaging 24.8 inches of snowfall.

Equip for summer extremes

The 38 days of extreme heat require efficient air conditioning and shaded outdoor spaces. Winter preparation should include reliable snow removal tools for the 24.8 inches of annual snow.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Kearney County

via SoilByCounty

Neutral and High-Performing Soils

Kearney County features a neutral pH of 7.00, sitting comfortably above the national median of 6.5 and the state average of 6.79. With an impressive soil score of 66.7, this county is one of the more productive regions in Nebraska. These balanced conditions provide a versatile platform for many different types of vegetation.

Balanced Texture for Easy Working

The soil is a balanced mix of 43.3% silt and 39.3% sand, rounded out by 17.4% clay. This texture offers excellent workability for farmers and gardeners while maintaining enough structure for root stability. The lower clay percentage helps prevent the heavy, sticky conditions found in other parts of the state.

Superior Organic Matter and Moisture

At 3.59%, the organic matter content is significantly higher than the Nebraska state average of 3.32%. The available water capacity is also high at 0.193 in/in, well above the state benchmark of 0.172. This combination makes the soil exceptionally fertile and resilient against drought.

Excellent Hydrological Potential

While specific drainage classes are not listed, the high 0.193 water capacity suggests the soil effectively stores moisture for plant use. The blend of sand and silt likely promotes steady infiltration rather than rapid runoff. Local land managers benefit from a soil profile that balances drainage and retention naturally.

Thriving Gardens in Kearney County

Kearney County sits in Hardiness Zone 5b, perfect for growing corn, soybeans, and diverse home gardens. The high soil score of 66.7 suggests that almost anything suited for the climate will thrive here with minimal amendment. Plant some heirloom tomatoes or peppers to see the productivity of this soil firsthand.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Kearney County

via LawnByCounty

Average Effort for Kearney County Lawns

With a lawn difficulty score of 54.8, Kearney County aligns closely with the Nebraska state average of 54.2. In this Hardiness Zone 5b region, homeowners face a moderate challenge that is slightly easier than the national median. Success depends on balancing irrigation with the fluctuating High Plains weather.

Managing Moderate Heat and Limited Rain

Annual precipitation of 25.7 inches falls just below the ideal threshold, necessitating supplemental watering during the peak of summer. The county sees 38 extreme heat days per year, which is higher than the state average of 34 days. These temperature spikes combined with 3,292 growing degree days mean your mower will stay busy from May through September.

Neutral Soils Simplify Nutrition

The soil pH in Kearney County is a perfect 7.00, meaning most turf nutrients remain readily available without heavy lime or sulfur treatments. The soil contains 39.3% sand and 17.4% clay, offering better drainage than heavier clay soils found further east. This balance reduces the risk of root rot but may require more frequent light watering during dry spells.

Navigating Pervasive Dry Spells

Drought is a significant factor here, with 100% of the county currently classified as abnormally dry. Over the past year, the region endured 27 weeks of drought conditions. Homeowners should prioritize mulching grass clippings to retain soil moisture and reduce evaporation during the hottest months.

Timing Your Kearney County Turf

Hardy species like Fine Fescue or heat-tolerant Bluegrass blends perform best in this environment. Plan your seeding projects between the average last frost on April 26 and the first fall frost on October 12. With the right timing and a consistent water plan, a lush green lawn is well within reach.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Kearney County's county score?
Kearney County, Nebraska has a composite county score of 61.6 out of 100 on CountyScore. This score is calculated from a weighted average of available data dimensions including property tax, cost of living, income, safety, health, and schools.
How does Kearney County rank among counties in Nebraska?
Kearney County ranks #48 among all counties in Nebraska on CountyScore's composite ranking. Rankings are based on available data dimensions and updated as new data is added.
What are property taxes like in Kearney County, Nebraska?
The median annual property tax in Kearney County is $2,675, with an effective tax rate of 1.23%. This earns Kearney County a tax score of 24.4/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Kearney County?
The median household income in Kearney County, Nebraska is $79,167 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Kearney County earns an income score of 82.9/100 on CountyScore.
Is Kearney County, Nebraska a good place to live?
Kearney County scores 61.6/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #48 in Nebraska. The best way to evaluate Kearney County is to compare individual dimension scores — property tax, cost of living, income, safety, health, and schools — based on your personal priorities. Use CountyScore to compare Kearney County with other counties side by side.

ByCounty Network

🏛Property Tax🏠Cost of Living💼Income & Jobs🛡Safety❤Health🎓Schools⚡Disaster Risk💧Water Quality🌤Weather & Climate🪨Soil Quality🌱Lawn Care🛒Farmers Markets

Data from U.S. Census Bureau ACS, FBI UCR, CDC, FEMA NRI, NCES, EPA SDWIS, NOAA — informational only.