A small Nebraska city at the base of Scotts Bluff National Monument
In the heart of Nebraska's panhandle, Gering is a small city where a strong sense of community and historic natural beauty converge. In the shadow of Scotts Bluff National Monument, Gering's 8,500 people move at a relaxed pace. “I’ve lived here most of my life, and we’re still that small, quiet hometown,” says Amy Newman, a Realtor with Champion Realty. “Like everybody still waves to each other, people shovel your walks for you, that kind of hometown feel.” Though most residents work within Scotts Bluff County -- a typical commute is less than 13 minutes, the U.S. Census says -- major cities are within reach. “We’re three hours from Denver, three hours from Rapid City, and about three and a half hours from Casper,” says Newman. “People just like the feel of the area, but if they need the big glamourous lights, they know they're not far from the city.
Homes in demand
The median home price is about $200,000, around half the national median. Homes typically sell after about 38 days on the market compared to the national average of 45 days. “As far as the market goes, we definitely have a housing shortage here,” says Newman. “We have more people coming in than we have homes and not a lot of new construction. It costs a lot to get materials down here.” She adds that the distance from Interstate 80, about 45 miles south, contributes to the difficulty. Home styles are consistent throughout, with bungalows and ranch-style homes sitting on compact lots.
The leading industries are retail trade, health care and educational services.
The Scotts Bluff National Monument
The Scotts Bluff National Monument towers in the backdrop of the city, an 800-foot-tall landmark that once helped guide westbound settlers. This 3,000-acre park features Oregon Trail remnants, rugged land and wide-open prairies. What began as an arboretum project grew into the Oregon Trail Park. Home to the "Western Nebraska Pioneer" baseball team, this park features ball fields, a disc golf course, a playground and a swimming pool. Monument Shadows Golf Course is a public, 18-hole course with a restaurant and bar.
Local watering holes in early 1900s storefronts
Restaurants line the streets of downtown, housed in historic brick storefronts with an frontier feel. The Union Bar and Grill is a particular favorite among residents. “We have some local restaurants that do very well,” says Newman. “Most people in Gering go to the local pub at the Union, which is known for their amazing prime rib and burgers.” Downtown also features grocery stores, convenience stores and boutiques.
'Gering up' for the Oregon Trail Days
The Oregon Trail Day celebration has been a Gering tradition since 1921. Every July, locals gather for the carnival, parades, live music, vendors and art show— not to mention a chili cook-off.
Trips out of Gering
State Route 71 borders Gering to the east, connecting to Scottsbluff 4 miles north. Public transportation is available through Tri-City Roadrunner, which operates two fixed routes and on-demand service from 6:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Cyclists can ride the bike lane along U Street. The Western Nebraska-Scottsbluff Regional Airport, 7 miles north, provides flights to Denver. For a broader selection of destinations and airlines, the Denver International Airport is 190 miles south. The nearest hospital is the Regional West Medical Center in Scottsbluff.
The Gering Public School District
The Gering Public School District serves the city, scoring a B-minus on Niche. The district supports four elementary schools, one middle and one high school, teaching about 2,000 students. Geil Elementary School scores particularly high, earning a B-plus.
Crime and climate
Gering gets less than half the nation's normal rainfall, which can lead to dusty conditions that are made more so by nearby Wyoming's position as the nation's third-windiest state.
According to FBI data, the rates of reported violent crime and property crime in Gering are lower than the Nebraska average and national average.
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Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
