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Overview
Nestled between Oklahoma, Nebraska, Missouri, and Colorado, the state of Kansas lies in the Midwestern portion of the United States. The Kansas River runs through the northeastern portion of the state, crossing through Topeka. Kansas residents enjoy small and mid-sized lakes, outdoor recreation, and a comfortable climate much of the year. While extreme highs and lows do occur during the summer and winter, those temperatures often are short-lived.
Kansas City attracts many newcomers to the state, although other cities and towns offer a great atmosphere. Kansas City is home to Kansas City Speedway and Lakeside Speedway, giving race fans hands-on activities throughout the year. Family-friendly parks give the perfect location for warm days. For residents who enjoy supporting small businesses, Kansas City has many of them.
The Kansas State Fair is one of the most anticipated events of the year. Other street festivals make their way to the state as well. The Old Cowtown Museum in Witchita and the Sporting Park and Community America Ballpark bring families plenty of excitement. Looking for something free to do? Tons of free entertainment blesses Kansas residents throughout the year.
Kansas State University brings many students to the area. Kansas City Kansas Community College is the popular choice among those who grew up in the city. Students often buy homes located near the colleges to ease their commute time.
Buying a Home in Kansas
If you are ready to buy a home but need time to save money for a down payment, consider rent-to-own options. You’ll move into the home as a renter and then have the option to buy the home. Most sellers give buyers up to three years to finalize the purchase. Use this time to improve your credit score for easier mortgage loan approval, save money to use as the down payment, and prepare for the transition into homeownership.
More than 10,000 homes for sale in Kansas at any time make finding the perfect property pretty simple for most anyone. Most of the real estate market includes single-family homes priced at about $130,000. Some homes are priced well above this number while foreclosures may provide an even lower cost for homebuyers.
Popular Neighborhoods in Kansas
Kansas City is the most popular neighborhood in Kansas. Other small towns and neighborhoods offer a comfortable, quaint life for newcomers, such as Mission Woods. Homes in this area sell for about $600,000, offering luxurious lifestyles inside gated communities. You’ll enjoy access to the Mission Hills Golf Course and Country Club and an impressive number of educational opportunities for students.
Mission Hills is a larger area than Mission Woods and has more variety in housing options. It is located near the Kansas City Country Club, has an immaculate school system, and many exclusive amenities. Expect to pay $800,000 or more to live in Mission Hills.
Prairie Village is more affordable, selling homes with a median average price of $200,000. The area is bigger than the other two and has tons of work opportunities.
Head to Wichita for the best education and aviation jobs. Both industries make up Wichita and the city is comfortable and enjoyable.
Buying vs. Rent to Own Homes
Consider rent to own if you are not comfortable buying under traditional means. You won’t feel so overwhelmed and will have more time to save money to buy a home. You can use the time to preparefor an eventual purchase. Save money for the down payment or closing costs, rebuild your credit, and more.
Cost of Living in Kansas
The cost of living in Kansas is about 8% to 10% lower than the national average. Much of this is related to housing costs, which average a cost about 20% lower than the national average. Kansas rent costs are also below average
Summary
If you are searching for a quiet, comfortable place to call home, Kansas has what you want. If you have visions of Dorothy from the Wizard of Oz, you are meant to live in this great state.
Reported Annual Crime In Kansas
| Statistic | Kansas | National |
|---|---|---|
| Violent crime | 3,996 | 370,388 |
| Murder | 82 | 19,131 |
| Rape | 1,034 | 86,726 |
| Robbery | 1,129 | 152,431 |
| Assault | 2,696 | 277,038 |
| Property crime | 12,993 | 1,216,038 |
| Burglary | 4,778 | 468,957 |
| Theft | 10,968 | 1,063,593 |
| Motor vehicle | 2,822 | 301,970 |
| Arson | 324 | 32,898 |