7 Best Suburbs of Wichita, KS: A 2023 Guide to Affordability and Commute

For homebuyers seeking more space and a quieter lifestyle without sacrificing access to urban amenities, the suburbs surrounding Wichita, KS, offer compelling options. Our analysis of recent real estate data reveals that you can find a home in a top-rated community for a median price as low as $171,250, all within a 20-minute commute of downtown Wichita. This guide provides a data-driven overview of seven standout suburbs, comparing key metrics like median home sale price and average price per square foot to help you make an informed decision.

What are the most affordable suburbs near Wichita?

If budget is your primary concern, the southern suburbs present the most accessible entry points into the Wichita area housing market.

• Haysville: With a median home sale price of $171,250, Haysville is the most affordable suburb on our list. Located about 20 minutes south of Wichita, it offers significant savings. Residents enjoy local attractions like Riggs Park while maintaining easy access to the city.
• Valley Center: Just northwest of the city, Valley Center provides a balance of affordability and small-town charm. The median home price here is $196,250. With a population of approximately 7,300, it boasts a quaint downtown and is conveniently close to the Sedgwick County Zoo.

Which Wichita suburbs offer a mid-range price point?

For buyers willing to invest a little more for specific community features or newer housing stock, these suburbs are excellent contenders.

• Park City: Situated just 15 minutes north of Wichita, Park City has a median home sale price of $227,500. This suburb is known for its community events and proximity to venues like the Hartman Arena, making it a hub for entertainment and outdoor activities.
• Goddard: Goddard stands out with a higher average sale price per square foot of $152, suggesting newer or larger homes. The median sale price is $269,250. It's a prime location for families, featuring attractions like Tanganyika Wildlife Park.

What are the higher-end suburban options close to Wichita?

These communities command a premium, often reflecting top-rated schools, extensive amenities, and well-established neighborhoods.

• Derby: A major suburban hub with a population of 25,600, Derby offers a wide range of housing and amenities. The median home price is $275,000. Residents have access to family-friendly spots like Rock River Rapids Aquatic Park and Field Station: Dinosaurs.
• Andover: Well-known for its excellent community facilities, Andover has a median home sale price of $315,000. Home to about 14,900 people, it features attractions such as the Terradyne Country Club and Andover Central Park.
• Maize: Topping the list in terms of investment, Maize has the highest median home price at $386,950. This growing community of around 5,700 residents offers a serene environment and unique local events, such as those at the Kansas International Dragway, while remaining only 20 minutes from the city.

Key Considerations for Your Move

When evaluating these suburbs, it's crucial to look beyond the price tag. Property taxes can vary between municipalities, impacting your overall monthly payment. We recommend researching the specific tax rates for your shortlisted cities. Furthermore, each suburb has its own character; visiting in person is the best way to gauge if the community's vibe aligns with your lifestyle.

Ultimately, the best suburb for you depends on your budget, desired home features, and community preferences. The data confirms that whether your priority is maximum affordability, family-centric amenities, or a premium community, there is a Wichita suburb that fits the bill, all while keeping your commute to a manageable 20 minutes or less.

Methodology: Suburb selection was based on a maximum 20-minute drive from downtown Wichita. Median home sale price data is sourced from the Redfin Data Center for March 2023. Average rental data is from Rent.com for March 2023. Population data is from the United States Census Bureau.