Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Wichita, KS
Thinking of moving to Wichita, KS? With a population of around 395,700, Wichita offers affordable living—median home prices are just $178,000 and average rent is $950. Residents enjoy short average commutes of 19 minutes and a sunny climate with 64% sunny days each year. While property crime is higher than average, the city boasts reputable schools, major healthcare centers, and a vibrant local community. Wichita is a welcoming city for families, students, and professionals seeking a budget-friendly lifestyle.
Demographics - Wichita, KS
Demographics - Wichita, KS
Wichita is home to about 395,700 residents and features a balanced age profile with a median age of 35.2 years. The city's diverse population is predominantly White at 61.5%, with significant Black, Asian, and other communities, and nearly 15% of residents speak a language other than English at home. This diversity creates a vibrant cultural atmosphere, making Wichita an engaging place to live.
Population:
395,700
Density:
2,400 per sq mi
Median Age:
35.2
Gender Ratio:
96 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
14.8%

Ethnic Composition
White:
61.5%
Black:
11.5%
Asian:
5.3%
Others:
21.7%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Wichita, KS?
Wichita offers a notably affordable cost of living, with a median home value of $178,000 and average rent around $950 per month. Essential expenses like groceries, utilities, and transportation are below the national average, making the city budget-friendly for families and individuals alike. State income tax rates are moderate, ranging from 3.1% to 5.7%.
Median House Value:
$178,000
Gross Rent:
$950
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$145
Auto Insurance:
$1,280
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,250
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$430
State Taxes:
Low:
3.1%
|
High:
5.7%
Cost Of Living Index:
86.5
Grocery:
92.1
Housing:
68.7
Utilities:
99.6
Transportation:
90.8
Health Care:
95.2
Miscellaneous:
90.3
Crime
Is Wichita, KS a safe place to live?
Wichita experiences a higher-than-average crime rate, with roughly 831 violent crimes and 4,279 property crimes per 100,000 residents. Living here means being aware of a 1 in 120 chance of experiencing violent crime and a 1 in 23 chance for property crime. Residents are advised to take standard safety precautions, especially in certain neighborhoods.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
831
Property Crimes Per 100k:
4,279
Crime Index:
5,110
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 120
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 23
Weather
What is the weather like in Wichita, KS year-round?
Wichita enjoys a continental climate with hot summers reaching up to 93°F and winters dipping to lows around 22°F. The city receives about 34 inches of annual rainfall and benefits from 64% sunny days, offering plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. Seasonal changes bring a variety of weather, from crisp autumns to mild, breezy springs.

Winter
Min:
22°F
Max:
43°F

Spring
Min:
45°F
Max:
71°F

Summer
Min:
68°F
Max:
93°F

Fall
Min:
48°F
Max:
73°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
34.3 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
64%
Neighbors
Wichita’s neighborhoods are characterized by a family-friendly atmosphere, with a median household income of $59,700 and a poverty rate of 15.6%. Most residents are homeowners, and the average commute is a convenient 19 minutes. The community values education, with nearly 90% holding a high school diploma or higher.
Median Income:
$34,400
Household Income:
$59,700
Family Income:
$75,900
Per Capita Income:
$30,100
Income Male:
$40,200
Income Female:
$32,400
Poverty Rate:
15.6%
Non English Speakers:
14.8%
Rent:
$950
Unemployment Rate:
3.9%
Public Transport Usage:
0.7%
Commute Time:
19.2 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
89.7%
Bachelors or More:
30.1%
Education
How are the schools in Wichita, KS?
Wichita’s educational options include reputable public schools like East High School and Robinson Middle School, as well as private institutions such as The Independent School. Higher education is anchored by Wichita State University and Friends University, offering local access to a range of academic programs. The city’s commitment to education supports learners of all ages.

Public Schools
Name:
East High School
Street:
2301 E Douglas Ave
Phone:
316-973-7200
Students:
2,300
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.5
Name:
Robinson Middle School
Street:
328 N Oliver Ave
Phone:
316-973-8600
Students:
750
Student Teacher Ratio:
16.3

Private Schools
Name:
The Independent School
Street:
8317 E Douglas Ave
Phone:
316-686-0152
Students:
550

Colleges
Name:
Wichita State University
City:
Wichita
State:
KS
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
15,500
Name:
Friends University
City:
Wichita
State:
KS
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
1,900
Healthcare
Wichita residents have access to quality healthcare, including major hospitals like Ascension Via Christi St. Francis and Wesley Medical Center, both equipped with emergency services. With 2.2 physicians per 1,000 people and over 90% health insurance coverage, the city provides comprehensive medical care. Healthcare costs are competitive, and medical facilities are easily accessible.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Ascension Via Christi St. Francis
Address:
929 N St. Francis St, Wichita, KS 67214
Phone:
(316) 268-5000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Wesley Medical Center
Address:
550 N Hillside St, Wichita, KS 67214
Phone:
(316) 962-2000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.2
Health Insurance Coverage:
90.4%
Health Care Index:
78.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Wichita, KS?
The Wichita housing market is affordable and stable, with the median home price at $178,000 and average rent for a two-bedroom apartment around $950. Over half of residents own their homes, and the area sees modest annual home appreciation. Rental vacancies are slightly above average, offering flexibility for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$178,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$950
Owner Occupied Rate:
56.6%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
8.7%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
2.9%
New Construction Rate:
1.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.8%
DMV Information
Vehicle services in Wichita are managed by the Kansas Department of Revenue Division of Vehicles, with convenient access to licensing and registration resources both locally and online. The main office is located in Topeka, and residents can find helpful information at the department’s official website. Efficient DMV services support Wichita’s commuter-friendly lifestyle.
State:
Kansas
Department:
Kansas Department of Revenue Division of Vehicles
Address:
300 SW 29th St, Topeka, KS 66611
Phone:
785-296-3621
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.