Fairbury is a rural Nebraska city that features a historic downtown
Fairbury is a quaint city of about 4,000 in the southeast corner of Nebraska near the Kansas state line. Anchored by the iconic Jefferson County Courthouse, the community features a charming downtown district that is on the National Register of Historic Places. Residents enjoy a slow-paced lifestyle as well as community parks and local schools. “It's got an old-time vibe,” says Jayne Kracke of Kracke RE/Keller Williams, who has sold several homes in Fairbury. “It’s a quiet community with a rural atmosphere, but it has grocery stores, a Walmart and restaurants. It has everything you need.”
There are about 4,000 people who call Fairbury, Nebraska home.
Fairbury's Courthouse square is the main hub for shopping and dining.
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Housing variety offers "Midwest home values"
Homes are typically built on moderate-sized lots along an easy-to-navigate grid of streets. Several streets in the heart of the community feature red brick and a canopy of mature trees. Ranch-style homes away from downtown offer more spacious lots. “There are some newer developments on the edges of town, but there’s a lot of historic homes,” Kracke says. Bungalows and multi-level Victorians stand out among the older housing stock. Prices range from well under $100,000 for smaller homes to more than $500,000 for homes with acreage. “Midwest home values,” Kracke says. “You get a lot for what you pay for.” Residents can expect a wide range of temperatures and conditions. Temperatures can rise above 100 during hot, humid summers and drop below 0 during cold, snowy winters.
In Fairbury, close-knit homes mean close-knit neighbors.
Larger historic homes on bigger lots are priced around $500,000.
Historic Colonial style homes can be found on the residential streets of Fairbury.
Downtown has been the heart of the community since it was founded more than 150 years ago. The commercial district comprises 10 blocks and is home to more than 100 buildings. The oldest are near the courthouse square. A collection of independent shops and restaurants can be found along the district’s red-brick streets. Downtown is also home to the Bonham Theater, which opened in 1926. The venue, which shows first-run movies, closed briefly in the early 2010s. Grassroots efforts resulted in it reopening five years later. Ray’s Apple Market and Walmart are north of downtown.
Many collectors in Fairbury enjoy a shopping spree at The Cottage Boutique.
Fairbury residents looking for a delicious steak meal, visit Griffey's Steakhouse & Lounge found on Fourth Street.
The downtown of Fairbury was founded more than 150 years ago.
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City Park is an active recreational complex that hosts events
A few blocks west of downtown is City Park, the center of community activity. A softball complex with four ballfields, a volunteer-built playground and a seasonal aquatic center are featured amenities. The Fairbury City Park Trail Loop is the newest amenity. The park hosts community events, including its signature July 4th Flea Market. The festivities draw hundreds of vendors. The event starts with a Shriners Parade and ends with a fireworks show. McNish Park features a 9-hole disc golf course. Crystal Springs Park is a nearby waterfront green space that spans 73 acres. Its main spring-fed lake is stocked with hundreds of trout each year.
There are several parks in Fairbury with historic landmarks.
Jefferson County Courthouse is the heart of Fairbury, and an iconic landmark of the town.
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Three community schools make up the Fairbury district
Fairbury Public Schools, which serves about 900 students in pre-kindergarten through 12th grade, earns a C-plus from Niche. Younger students can attend Central Elementary and Jefferson Intermediate, both rated B-minus. Older students can attend Fairbury Junior/Senior High, rated C-plus. Fairbury High offers clubs and organizations dedicated to subjects as varied as farming, government and performing arts.
Central Elementary School is easily accessed in the community.
Jefferson Intermediate School offers a Gifted & Talented program.
Fairbury Junior/Senior High School is easily assessed on the east side of town.
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Easy access to I-80 and Lincoln
Jefferson County Health & Life is a regional hospital in the community. Several highways in and around the community provide travel within Jefferson County and to larger municipalities. “There’s easy access from Fairbury up to Interstate 80, which takes you all over,” Kracke says. Lincoln, about an hour’s drive, and Omaha, the state capital, are both located along I-80. Fairbury has a municipal airport, but the closest commercial airport is Lincoln’s, about 70 miles north.
Written By
Matt Pallister
Photography Contributed By
Jason Jacot
Video By
Daniel Quattro
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
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an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Fairbury, NE sell after 90 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Fairbury, NE over the last 12 months is $130,000, down 17% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Fantastic, updated & well-maintained bungalow conveniently located within walking distance of the historical downtown area and elementary schools. This lovely home features large rooms and high ceilings. Primary bedroom has walk-in closet and 3/4 bath which is shared w/another bedroom. The fantastic kitchen includes a walk-in pantry and main floor laundry! Lots of storage between the fantastic
If you’ve been looking for a historic property to restore, invest in, or make it your own, this is your opportunity. The bones are great but there is no active heating system, so this property will only qualify for a cash or line of credit sale. Selling As Is. Schedule your private showing today and imagine the possibilities!
Just minutes from Fairbury, Nebraska, and only seven miles from the Kansas border, this exceptional property offers the perfect blend of comfort and utility on a spacious footprint. The 80x120 building boasts a 7,200-square-foot shop, complete with three 12x14 electric overhead doors, a convenient half bath, and cozy floor heating throughout. Attached to this incredible workspace is a
A true year-round recreation opportunity with income! A turn-key setup for deer, waterfowl, and turkey. Jefferson county and specifically the Little Blue River is quickly being recognized for producing quality bucks each year. +/- 60 acres of timber and river ground along with the balance in native grass. 1+ acre foodplot and Muddy Blind in place. Waterfowl opportunities from September through
Just minutes from Fairbury, Nebraska, and only seven miles from the Kansas border, this exceptional property offers the perfect blend of comfort and utility on a spacious footprint. The 80x120 building boasts a 7,200-square-foot shop, complete with three 12x14 electric overhead doors, a convenient half bath, and cozy floor heating throughout. Attached to this incredible workspace is a
This property reflects more than 15 years of dedicated regenerative agriculture and holistic land management. Through holistic planned grazing, cover crops, rotational grazing, and extended recovery periods, the land's carrying capacity has increased by approximately 33%, while soil organic matter and Haney soil health scores have shown significant improvement. The property features native
Two bedroom, two bath home for sale with a detached one stall garage. Non-conforming room(s) in the basement with a 3/4 bath. Direct basement access from outside. Basement laundry, but has main floor laundry hookups available! Back deck for grilling and a fenced in yard for the kids or animals. All on a corner lot here in town! Property will be sold As-Is. Call your agents or myself for more info!
This is a beautifully updated 2+ Bed, 2 bath home. Close to schools, shopping and restaurants in Fairbury. New 2026 paint, carpet, flooring, HVAC and garage door opener. Newer windows on 2nd level with space to add walk-in closet to make a true bedroom. The basement bathroom is gorgeous with clear block wall and heated floor. More opportunity to to add egress for yet another bedroom. Washer and
Take a look at this comfortable and functional home with a great location! The main level features an open floor plan that provides great flow between the living spaces, along with a functional mud room and laundry area that helps keep everyday life organized. The home offers 3+ spacious bedrooms, giving you flexibility for bedrooms, an office, or hobby space. Newer windows throughout the home
Timeless, original details & modern comfort & convenience blend seamlessly in this beautifully remodeled bungalow. The main level interior features amazing updates including remodeled Full Primary Bath, newly added 1/2 bath, fresh paint & flooring throughout, newer water heater, HVAC, all new kitchen including cabinetry, appliances & more! House roof has been replaced w/high quality shingles and
Welcome home to 1111 E Street in Fairbury! This beautifully updated 5-bedroom, 2-bath home is move-in ready and loaded with improvements. The inviting covered front porch leads to a spacious living room featuring built-ins and a cozy wood-burning fireplace. The main floor offers two large bedrooms, an updated bath, laundry room, and a remodeled kitchen with granite countertops, newer cabinetry,
Located in Fairbury, this rare 7.51-acre property in town, offers incredible opportunity for those looking for space, flexibility and future potential. Featuring a 3-bedroom, 2-bath home built in 1900, this property is ideal for buyers ready to bring their vision to life. With 7.51 acres, there room to grow, build or create your own private acreage retreat. Whether you're dreaming of constructing
Discover comfortable living at 815 E 17th Street Apt. #206 in Fairbury, NE. This 2-bedroom, 1-bath apartment offers convenient off-street parking and is pet friendly. Shared laundry facilities are available on-site for added convenience. Located in Fairbury, the residence provides a straightforward, well-located option for those seeking practical accommodations. Please visit to schedule a tour
Discover 828 E #105 in Fairbury, NE, a 2-bedroom, 1-bath apartment that offers small-town living with practical conveniences. The unit includes access to shared laundry and off-street parking, and the property is pet friendly. This residence provides an easygoing lifestyle with essential amenities in a community setting. Please visit to schedule a tour and see all that this apartment has to
720 J #102 is a two-bedroom, one-bath apartment that blends modern updates with small-town living. The unit features contemporary finishes and convenient access to shared laundry on-site. Pet-friendly policies make it suitable for residents with companion animals. Located in Fairbury, this residence offers a comfortable, updated rental option with essential conveniences and a welcoming community
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