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Kansas Real Estate For Sale
What most people know of Kansas comes from the classic movie The Wizard of Oz, but the state is much more than the black-and-white farmland of the film. In reality, Kansas is the heartland of America- it is the geographical center of the continental United States and a state with residents from all walks of life. But whether you are in the largest cities in Kansas or the sprawling rural communities, you’ll find a feeling of camaraderie and welcoming unlike in other states. It also doesn’t hurt that Kansas real estate is some of the most affordable in the nation.
Kansas Real Estate Market
Kansas may call to mind the image of sprawling flatlands, populated sparsely with farmhouses. This image is certainly true for areas of Kansas, but the state is also home to many cities, suburbs, and small towns that drive up its housing density. It’s a good thing that there is more real estate in Kansas than you’d think, as the state draws in many new residents every year, driven by the low cost of living and housing. The median price for homes in Kansas is $189,000, well below the national average and even the average in nearby states like North Dakota and South Dakota.
Affordable real estate in Kansas can get you far, too. Homes in Kansas average over 1,700 square feet and are some of the largest in the region, and these large homes hold up incredibly well. Most real estate in Kansas was built in the 1800s when stone was the primary material used in this region, meant to stand up to severe weather like tornadoes. Kansas real estate continues to be built with the weather in mind, but even the oldest homes in the state are remarkably well maintained.
There's also a lot of new construction in Kansas as well. The south-central area near Wichita is particularly popular for development, as is the northeastern edge of the state near Lawrence. While much of this represents developments in the works, Kansas can also be a great option if you want to purchase land and build your dream home.
Schools in Kansas
The Kansas State Department Board of Education is responsible for governing the public school system in Kansas, which includes 321 school districts and 1,351 schools. Like many states in the region, the amount of rural areas has been a challenge for Kansas, but they have been able to ensure every student receives a quality education. In fact, Kansas has the lowest student-to-teacher ratio of its neighboring states.
Despite spending less per student than much of the country, Kansas has been able to achieve high-quality education. This is exemplified by a number of school districts that have been recognized nationally and at a state level for their success. Unified School District 232 sits in Johnston County and has significant achievements in both academics and co-curricular activities that have earned it awards throughout the years. In Maize Unified School District, the 15-year strategic plan called “Journey to Excellence” has been so successful that the district has a 99% graduation rate. When it comes to national achievements, Gardner Edgerton School District 231 is home to three individual schools that have earned the honor of being a National Blue Ribbon school.
Colleges in Kansas
Kansas real estate also has access to a number of high-ranking colleges and universities, including Kansas State University and the University of Kansas. There are also 19 community colleges and a number of technical schools available, giving Kansas students plenty of options when it comes to higher education. The schools even inspire some good old-fashioned sports rivalries, especially when it comes to basketball and the Kansas Jayhawks and the K-State Wildcats compete.
Frequently Asked Questions About Kansas Real Estate
What is the nearest commercial airport in Kansas?
Kansas has eight airports with commercially scheduled flights but no international airports. International flights are available to nearby Kansas City, Missouri. In Kansas, the largest airports include Wichita Dwight D Eisenhower National Airport and Garden City Regional Airport.
What are the must-see attractions and landmarks in Kansas?
The rich history of Kansas is present in the state today and is the hallmark of many of the best attractions in the state. Boot Hill offers a look into the cowboy days of Kansas in a city that has not changed much since the 1870s. The Eisenhower Presidential Library Museum and Boyhood Home honors the president who grew up in Kansas and offers a huge archive. Those who enjoy museums can also visit the Spenser Museum of Art, the Evel Knievel Museum, or the Botanica in Wichita Gardens. There is also plenty of nature to enjoy, including the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve and Monument Rocks. And, of course, for the sports fan, Kansas Speedway hosts about 200 large motorsport events per year, including NASCAR touring series.
Which cities in Kansas are the biggest?
Kansas is not all rural communities and farmland. With the state's low cost of living and affordable housing, many are choosing Kansas real estate to call their home. Wichita, the state’s capital, has a population of just under 400,00 and is projected to continue growing. Overland Park and Kansas City are also very populated areas with the feel of a more urban area.
How is the weather in Kansas?
Kansas is a state that cycles through each season throughout the year without becoming too extreme at any time. Winters are cold and snowy, but only Western Kansas is likely to see upwards of 30 inches of snow- most of the state has average highs in the mid-50s during the coldest months. Summers do get rather hot, with highs in the 90s and humidity that can make it feel warmer. But summer and fall are very mild, and the majority of the year sits in this temperate space that allows you to enjoy the outdoors.
When does the school year start and end in Kansas?
While the exact schedule will vary by district, most Kansas schools return in mid-August to start the school year and let out for the summer in mid-May.
Living in Kansas
Industries in Kansas
The reputation Kansas has as farmland isn’t inaccurate- it is one of the most productive agricultural states in the country. The largest crops include wheat, corn, sorghum, and soybeans, which are also the pillars of the economy. But if you plan to buy real estate in Kansas near farms, you are likely to find markets and roadside stands with all kinds of local goodies, from eggs to produce to honey, that are worth taking home.
Young professionals looking for Kansas real estate will have lots of job opportunities in the state. Even in the larger cities, the majority of the economy is made up of blue-collar workers. Besides agriculture, popular industries include cattle production, energy, aviation, minerals, and transportation equipment manufacturing. However, other large employers can be found in the higher education and healthcare systems. Companies like Hostess, AMC, Garmin, and Koch Industries also have headquarters in Kansas for their corporate operations.
Young professionals looking for Kansas real estate will have lots of job opportunities in the state. Even in the larger cities, the majority of the economy is made up of blue-collar workers. Besides agriculture, popular industries include cattle production, energy, aviation, minerals, and transportation equipment manufacturing. However, other large employers can be found in the higher education and healthcare systems. Companies like Hostess, AMC, Garmin, and Koch Industries also have headquarters in Kansas for their corporate operations.
Food in Kansas
When it comes to food, Kansas has a lot of pride in its local specialties. Many states claim to have the best barbeque, but few are as serious about the idea as Kansas. The hub of barbeque in the state is Kansas City- the Kansas side. Kansas City, MO, is the main rival for this title, but KCK is the home of endless barbeque. The secret to their sauce is a molasses base that gives it a sweet, sticky flare unmatched by other barbeques. The state is also where sliders started- White Castle was created in Wichita! Other culinary creations hailing from Kansas include the frozen drink now commonly referred to as an ICEE or Slurpee.
Things to do in Kansas
Kansas’ cities have plenty to offer too. One of the biggest events each year is the Wichita River Festival. For the last 45 years, the state capital and largest city brings together people from all across Kansas for a nine-day-long spectacular. Over 60 events are held, with hundreds of hours of concerts and live entertainment, including fireworks displays. Sporting events, vendors, concerts, a parade, and every fried food you can imagine make this event the highlight of many people’s years in Kansas.
Kansas also is known for having a thriving and elite country club scene. At one time, these clubs existed to access the highest quality beer and liquor, but they have become a way to socialize and access luxurious amenities. One of the highest ranked is Wichita Country Club, which offers swimming, tennis, pickleball, golf, and a full fitness facility. The flatlands of Kansas make excellent golf courses, which is part of the appeal of these clubs. Most of these clubs are also affordable compared to clubs in other states, even when you factor in the five-star restaurants.
Kansas also is known for having a thriving and elite country club scene. At one time, these clubs existed to access the highest quality beer and liquor, but they have become a way to socialize and access luxurious amenities. One of the highest ranked is Wichita Country Club, which offers swimming, tennis, pickleball, golf, and a full fitness facility. The flatlands of Kansas make excellent golf courses, which is part of the appeal of these clubs. Most of these clubs are also affordable compared to clubs in other states, even when you factor in the five-star restaurants.
Overall, Kansas real estate is surrounded by friendly, welcoming folks with a reputation for being hospitable. Even larger cities like Overland Park tend to feel more like a small town when it comes to meeting people and getting to know them. The lack of traffic, beautiful scenery, and tight-knit communities can make Kansas feel like a peaceful place no matter where you end up.