Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Kearney, MO
Thinking of moving to Kearney, MO? With a friendly population of 10,825 and a median home price around $320,000, Kearney offers affordable living and a small-town feel just outside Kansas City. The city enjoys low crime rates (only 68 violent crimes per 100k), solid schools, and a typical Midwestern climate with 59% sunny days. Expect average rent around $1,210, an easy 26-minute commute, and excellent access to parks and community amenities—ideal for those seeking affordability and quality of life.
Demographics - Kearney, MO
Demographics - Kearney, MO
Kearney has a population of 10,825, with a median age of 36.9 and a nearly even gender balance. The city is predominantly White (over 92%), with a small percentage of non-English speakers, creating a close-knit, family-friendly community. Residents enjoy a moderate population density, fostering a comfortable suburban atmosphere.
Population:
10,825
Density:
1,130 per sq mi
Median Age:
36.9
Gender Ratio:
98 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
2.9%

Ethnic Composition
White:
92.4%
Black:
1.4%
Asian:
0.6%
Others:
5.6%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Kearney, MO?
Living in Kearney is relatively affordable, with a cost of living index below the national average and median home values around $320,000. Monthly rent averages $1,210, and everyday expenses such as utilities and groceries remain reasonable, making it attractive for families and professionals. State taxes are moderate, helping stretch your budget further.
Median House Value:
$320,000
Gross Rent:
$1,210
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$125
Auto Insurance:
$1,420
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,830
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$630
State Taxes:
Low:
1.5%
|
High:
5.4%
Cost Of Living Index:
94.9
Grocery:
96.4
Housing:
87.2
Utilities:
97.6
Transportation:
98.1
Health Care:
95.5
Miscellaneous:
92.0
Crime
Is Kearney, MO a safe place to live?
Kearney is considered a safe place to live, with a low violent crime rate of 68 per 100,000 residents and a 1 in 1,470 chance of experiencing such incidents. Property crime is also lower than many urban areas, contributing to the city's family-oriented, peaceful environment. Residents can feel secure while enjoying local amenities and neighborhoods.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
68
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,124
Crime Index:
1,192
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 1,470
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 89
Weather
What is the weather like in Kearney, MO year-round?
Kearney experiences all four seasons, with cold winters averaging lows of 19°F and warm summers reaching up to 89°F. The city enjoys 59% sunny days and over 40 inches of annual rainfall, offering a blend of outdoor opportunities throughout the year. Spring and fall provide mild, comfortable weather perfect for community events and recreation.

Winter
Min:
19°F
Max:
38°F

Spring
Min:
44°F
Max:
68°F

Summer
Min:
67°F
Max:
89°F

Fall
Min:
47°F
Max:
69°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
40.1 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
59%
Neighbors
Kearney residents benefit from a strong community with a median household income of $96,600 and a low poverty rate of 5.3%. Most adults have a high school diploma or better, and unemployment is just 3.4%, reflecting local economic stability. The typical commute is about 26 minutes, and the area maintains a quiet, residential character.
Median Income:
$44,000
Household Income:
$96,600
Family Income:
$108,500
Per Capita Income:
$34,800
Income Male:
$53,200
Income Female:
$44,900
Poverty Rate:
5.3%
Non English Speakers:
2.9%
Rent:
$1,210
Unemployment Rate:
3.4%
Public Transport Usage:
0.3%
Commute Time:
26.2 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
96.8%
Bachelors or More:
32.9%
Education
How are the schools in Kearney, MO?
Kearney offers quality educational opportunities, with well-regarded public schools like Kearney High School and access to nearby private schools. Higher education is easily reached, with colleges such as William Jewell College just 10 miles away. The community values education, with nearly 97% of adults holding a high school diploma.

Public Schools
Name:
Kearney High School
Street:
715 E 19th St
Phone:
816-628-4585
Students:
1,050
Student Teacher Ratio:
17.1
Name:
Kearney Middle School
Street:
201 W State Route 92
Phone:
816-628-4116
Students:
600
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.9

Private Schools
Name:
St. James School
Street:
309 S Stewart Rd, Liberty, MO 64068
Phone:
816-781-4428
Students:
290

Colleges
Name:
William Jewell College
City:
Liberty
State:
MO
Distance:
10 miles
Students:
930
Name:
Metropolitan Community College - Maple Woods
City:
Kansas City
State:
MO
Distance:
17 miles
Students:
4,400
Healthcare
Access to quality healthcare is convenient in Kearney, with major hospitals like Liberty Hospital and North Kansas City Hospital located nearby. The city has a solid provider base, with 2.2 physicians per 1,000 residents and over 91% health insurance coverage. Residents can count on comprehensive medical services and emergency care close to home.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Liberty Hospital
Address:
2525 Glenn Hendren Dr, Liberty, MO 64068
Phone:
(816) 781-7200
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
North Kansas City Hospital
Address:
2800 Clay Edwards Dr, North Kansas City, MO 64116
Phone:
(816) 691-2000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.2
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.1%
Health Care Index:
78.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Kearney, MO?
Kearney's housing market is stable and attractive, with a median home price of $320,000 and home appreciation rates reaching 6.4% over the past year. Most residents own their homes, and rental options remain accessible with a 4.6% vacancy rate. The market supports both new construction and established neighborhoods, appealing to buyers and renters alike.
Median Home Price:
$320,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,210
Owner Occupied Rate:
77.3%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
4.6%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
6.4%
New Construction Rate:
2.5%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.4%
DMV Information
Vehicle registration and licensing in Kearney are managed by the Missouri Department of Revenue, with the nearest office in Kansas City. Residents can access convenient DMV services, including online resources, for all motor vehicle and driver licensing needs. The process is straightforward, supporting both new arrivals and long-time locals.
State:
Missouri
Department:
Missouri Department of Revenue – Motor Vehicle and Driver Licensing
Address:
615 E 13th St, Kansas City, MO 64106
Phone:
1-573-526-3669
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.