7 Best Places To Live In Kansas In 2024

The most affordable state to live in is often either Mississippi or Kansas. Boasting a climate that would put many states to shame, a relatively low tax burden, and low traffic congestion, Kansas deserves some serious consideration. While the western part of the state is relatively flat, its one-of-a-kind beauty lies in the fact one can view the landscape for miles on end. The eastern side of the state, however, features the picturesque Flint Hills, a vast expanse of heart-melting beauty. Plus, some sections offer all four seasons. Discover below the seven best places to live in Kansas in 2024.

Manhattan

Because of their vibrancy and relative diversity, College towns are often terrific places to live. Fortunately, Manhattan is no exception. Manhattan hosts Kansas State University, a defining feature of the town for more than 160 years. Residents here are known to be incredibly friendly, helpful, and down-to-earth. You can understand why Manhattan is sometimes referred to as “Manhappiness.” Plus, this town boasts excellent schools and hence, can be ideal for families with children. Amanda Arnold Elementary School is often highly rated — as is Manhattan High School.

Also, neighborhoods here are safe; robbery incidents, including muggings, are so rare as to be of real concern. And with the Flint Hills in the backdrop, the scenery and outdoor opportunities are top-notch. Lastly, Manhattan Brewing Company, known for its delightful blend of craft beer, can make for an evening routine.

Wamego

With homes here selling for a median price of just $175,000, Wamego is affordable — even by Kansas standards. Oz Museum, with its thousands of Oz-related artifacts, is among Wamego’s best-known landmarks. Famous abolitionist Rev. Henry Ward Beecher is known to have armed his parishioners to tip the scale for a free Kansas, and Beecher Bible and Rifle Church, named for the preacher, is minutes from town. Expect a suburban feel here, with a dash of rural—in environs that are safe, friendly, and intimate.

Home to the biggest firework show in Kansas, a resident will look forward to several fun-filled events. Also, Wamego School District is in the top 30% of public schools in the state. That said, for occasional soft and chewy cookies, Friendship House is unmatched and is a favorite with residents.

Newton

For those who love the peace and quiet of rural areas, Newton, once a railhead for the Chisholm Trail cattle, should be an excellent place to live. The most exciting part to living here is that a resident will enjoy the laid-back ambiance of a small town while being just 30 minutes away from Wichita, the largest city in Kansas. Newton, therefore, provides fantastic access to desirable amenities, including shopping venues. A resident will not need to do a day-long trip, for instance, to pick up groceries.

According to Redfin’s January 2024 data, homes in Newton fetch a median price of just $125,000. Most will agree that this is a steal, considering Wichita’s median price stood at $205,000 in the same period. Plus, Newton is relatively diverse, and the restaurants in town share this fact. Hispanics constitute about 19% of the town’s population.

Andover

Andover is on the outskirts of Wichita — just about 13 miles east — and, almost like Newton, provides the best of both worlds: The peace of a small town and access to the amenities of a big city. Living in Andover’s relatively upscale neighborhoods (homes fetch a median price of $450,000) comes with access to Terradyne Golf Course, an award-winning, 18-hole championship course, the handiwork of celebrated golf course architect Donald Sechrest.

Flint Hills National Golf Club is also nearby and is just as awesome. Plus, the schools here are excellent and are in the top 20% of Kansas public schools. Many consider Andover Central Park, with its stocked fishing lake, playground, amphitheater, and library as the highlight of this town.

Derby

Derby provides the allure of a sparse suburban feel complete with river access, excellent schools, a fantastic culinary scene, and then some. Warren Riverview Park, one of Derby’s many parks and green spaces, is a great place for an early-morning walk or evening stroll. Home to about 26,000 residents, this town is vibrant and full of life. Stores such as Bittersweet, the go-to spot for unique gifts — and restaurants such as Derby Donut — the go-to place for cinnamon rolls, make living in Derby so sweet, convenient, and exciting.

The school district has outstanding programs for children with special needs, while the neighborhoods are mostly safe and peaceful. According to Realtor.com, the median listing price for a home in Derby — as of January 2024 — stood at $286,000. Considering its proximity to Wichita, this is an excellent price point.

Lenexa

Boasting not one but two world-class parks, lots of festivals (including The Great Lenexa BBQ Battle and Chili Challenge), great schools, a cozy and clean public library, and a small but nice farmers market — Lenexa is hands-down among the best places to live in Kansas. Sar-Ko-Par Trails Park, one of the town’s most loved spots, spans more than 50 lush and picturesque acres and features the 160-year-old Legler Barn Museum, a stunning 3-acre lake, tennis courts, and a disc golf course.

Alternatively, Blackhoof Park with the gorgeous Lake Lenexa — is just as heart-melting. And with Kansas City, a mere 20-minute drive, living here is among the best decisions anyone can take. Plus, the Greater Kansas City area tends to be politically purple, and hence, a touch more mild and tolerable.

Olathe

For its tight-knit family feel, great school system, and proximity to both Kansas City and Lawrence, Olathe deserves a spot among the best places to live in Kansas. Kansas City is less than 30 minutes via Interstate 35 — while Lawrence, the sixth-largest city in the state, is less than 40 minutes.

With its wonderful community of kind and friendly residents, Olathe often plants a smile on the face of newcomers. Olathe is a Shawnee word for “beautiful,” and the scenery — including the verdant hills that encircle it — proves this fact. Perhaps because of its size, Olathe scores big on amenities. Olathe Medical Center, for example, is in the top 100 hospitals in the United States for spine surgery (for 2023).

Kansas is not the least beautiful state in the nation; it is differently beautiful. The Great Plains, mostly in the western part of the state, exudes a unique charm and allure — while the Flint Hills on the opposite side —- can make one dream of California. Often ranked among the most affordable states in the country, one can stretch a dollar here and live on the cheap. Plus, U.S. News & World Report ranked Kansas among the 10 Best States for Jobs in 2023. If you are looking for a place to live in this underrated Midwestern state, explore places such as Manhattan, Wamego, Newton, and Andover.