The Ultimate Guide on Moving to Wichita, Kansas Table of Contents Toggle IntroEast and West WichitaNeighborhoodsLiving ExpensesEmployment in WichitaPopular Things to DoMust-try Food OptionsFine DiningCasualAuthenticPizzaBreweries and Coffee ShopsNightlifeEducationPublic School K-12Private School K-12UniversitiesFinancial & Real EstateBanksMortgage FirmReal Estate AgentsTransportationWeatherLocal Influencers to FollowWichita by E.B.Wichita on the CheapWichita Life ICTWichita MomLocal NewsKAKEKSNKWCHKSASConclusionLooking to Purchase a Wichita Home? Intro Are you considering moving to Wichita? Or maybe you just recently found yourself living in Wichita? The following is a complete guide to Wichita, KS and all the different things to know about the largest city in Kansas (yes, Kansas City is split between Kansas and Missouri giving Kansas the crown here) Wichita, Kansas is a thriving mid-sized city that offers a great mix of city life and natural beauty. In 2022, the city continues to grow and develop, with new restaurants, shops, and entertainment options popping up all the time. The cost of living is relatively low compared to other cities, making it a great option for those looking to stretch their budget. There’s also a strong sense of community in Wichita, which makes it a welcoming place for newcomers. There are many local events and activities for residents to get involved in, such as festivals, community service projects, and sporting events. If you enjoy being outdoors, Wichita has a lot to offer. The city is surrounded by parks and nature reserves, where you can hike, fish, or simply enjoy a picnic. All in all, Wichita is a fantastic place to call home, with plenty to see and do and a friendly atmosphere that makes it easy to feel right at home. East and West Wichita Wichita is a city that has two main areas, East Wichita and West Wichita. Both East and West Wichita offer a range of amenities, with different neighborhoods catering to different lifestyles and preferences. East Wichita has a more established feel with excellent schools and tranquil parks, making it a great option for families. Meanwhile, West Wichita has seen rapid growth and development, with new housing developments, shopping centers, and dining options popping up all the time, making it a popular choice for those seeking a more dynamic lifestyle. When it comes to cost of living, there is generally a higher cost in East Wichita, due to the established neighborhoods and quality schools, while West Wichita may offer a more affordable option. However, both sides of the city have something to offer, and the best option will ultimately depend on your individual needs and budget. Regardless of which side of Wichita you choose, you’ll find a welcoming and vibrant community with plenty of opportunities for growth and adventure. Neighborhoods Wichita is a city with a diverse range of neighborhoods, each offering its own unique character and charm. Wichita even has a city inside Wichita called Eastborough, which has it's own police department, municipal court, city hall, and mayor. Delano If you’re looking for a vibrant and bustling community, then the Delano neighborhood is one of the fastest growing neighborhoods in Wichita right now. Known for its historic architecture, trendy cafes and boutiques, Delano is nestled just west of downtown Wichita across from the Arkansas river, which divides Wichita from North to South. Eastborough If you’re looking for a more laid-back, upper class suburban feel, then the Eastborough area might be right up your alley. While not actually considered a part of Wichita and considered its own city, even though it is compeltely engulfed by Wichita on all sides, with its tree-lined streets, spacious homes, and peaceful parks, Eastborough provides a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. College Hill Going east from downtown, the College Hill neighborhood is a great choice for families and young professionals alike. With its tree-lined streets, charming, victorian era homes, and excellent public schools, College Hill is a wonderful place to raise a family and well desired by those looking for a new home. College hill is also particularly known for their decorations during Halloween. The entire neighborhood goes all out with decorations and thousands descend on the cobblestone streets on October 31st to trick-or-treat the neighborhood. Riverside As the name implies, the riverside neighborhood resides directly on the Arkansas river. For those who love outdoor recreation, the Riverside neighborhood is an excellent option as it is home to multiple parks, including Oak Park, North and South Riverside Park, and Dentral Riverside park which includes a small wildlife exhibit. There are trails all along the river as well which allows for walking, running, biking, and opportunity for those who like fishing. Crown Heights Located just a block east of College Hill, Crown Heights is one of the most sought-after neighborhoods in Wichita. Crown heights is known for their low crime rate and historic homes. Prestigious Neighborhoods Looking for more upscale living? North East Wichita contains many exclusive neighborhoods such as Oak Creek, Lakepoint, Wilson Estates, and more. On the opposite side of town, neighborhoods such as Emerald Bay provide a luxurious lifestyle on a lake. No matter what your lifestyle or preferences, Wichita has a neighborhood that’s perfect for you! Living Expenses The cost of living in Wichita, Kansas is generally considered to be lower than the national average. According to data from the Council for Community and Economic Research, the overall cost of living in Wichita is about 89% of the national average. Housing costs in particular tend to be quite low, with the median home price in the area being around $150,000. Other expenses, such as groceries and healthcare, are also relatively inexpensive compared to other parts of the country. However, it is important to note that the cost of living can vary depending on factors such as the specific neighborhood or area of the city that you live in, and your individual lifestyle and needs. The cost of living in Wichita, Kansas, is relatively affordable compared to many other major cities in the United States. According to Numbeo, Wichita has a cost of living index of 82.35, lower than the national average of 100. This means that, on average, goods and services in Wichita cost 18% less than the national average. Housing costs in particular tend to be quite low, with the median home price in the area being around $150,000. For those looking for an apartment, Wichita can be an attractive place to live for those on a budget. The average monthly rent for a studio apartment is estimated to be $686, for a one-bedroom apartment it's $847. For those needing more space, the average monthly rent for a two-bedroom apartment is $987. Utilities are also relatively affordable, with the average monthly bill estimated at $150. Groceries and dining out can also be relatively affordable, with the average cost of a meal at a mid-range restaurant estimated at $15. (Stats taken from https://www.rent.com/kansas/wichita-apartments/rent-trends) Employment in Wichita Wichita, Kansas is a bustling city that serves as a hub for many types of employers. It is best known for its thriving aerospace and aviation industries, as well as its robust manufacturing sector. Some of the largest companies that have offices in Wichita are Koch Industries, Cargill, Textron Aviation, and Spirit Aerosystems. Having major aviation companies such as Spirit AeroSystems, a tier A supplier of Boeing, and Textron Aviation, a private jet manufacturer, contributes to the city’s reputation as the “Air Capital of the World.” In the healthcare industry, some of the common employers include Wesley Medical Center and Ascension Via Christi, who control a majority of the hospitals in the area. In the finance sector, Fidelity Bank, Intrust Bank, and Capitol Federal Savings Bank have a very large footprint in the area, with Credit Unions like Credit Union of America and Meritrust also commanding a large market share. The Wichita Public Schools district is a large source of employment in the city, as well as a major provider of educational services to the community. With over 50,000 students and over 5,000 employees, the district is one of the largest employers in the area, and provides jobs for teachers, administrators, and support staff. Additionally, there are several private schools in Wichita, which also provide employment opportunities for those interested in education. Besides Wichita Public Schools, Wichita State University, Friends University, and Newman University also serve as potential education employers. Popular Things to Do Wichita, Kansas has a variety of events and activities for visitors and residents. Some popular options include: Sedgwick County Zoo The Sedgwick County Zoo is a popular attraction for families and animal lovers, showcasing a wide range of species from around the world, including lions, tigers, and bears; giraffes, and monkeys, in natural habitats. They are considered one of the top zoos in the Nation, ranking #7 in U.S. zoos on TripAdvisor. Wichita Art Museum Visiting the Wichita Art Museum: The Wichita Art Museum is a renowned art institution that features an extensive collection of American art, including works by artists such as Mary Cassatt, John Singer Sargent, and Grant Wood. The art museum is free for everyone. Intrust Bank Arena Intrust Bank Arena is a large entertainment venue that hosts a variety of events, including concerts, shows, and sporting events. Visitors can enjoy performances by some of the biggest names in entertainment. Intrust Bank also hosts the local hockey team, The Wichita Thunder, who are a minor league team in the ECHL. Botanica Gardens Botanica Gardens is a beautiful botanical garden that features a variety of plants, gardens, and outdoor sculptures. Visitors can explore the gardens and enjoy a peaceful stroll among the flowers and trees. Botanica also hosts a halloween event every year which involves thousands of carved pumpkins and an annual Christmas light exhibit where the entire park is draped in Christmas lights and welcomes thousands of people every night through the month of December. Arkansas River The Arkansas Riverwalk is a scenic path that follows the Arkansas River and offers a great place for a walk or bike ride. Visitors can enjoy the views of the river and nearby park areas. Along the path, the Keeper of the Plains is a 44-foot tall steel sculpture standing at the joining of the Big and Little Arkansas rivers in downtown Wichita. The land is a historic and sacred site to Native Americans and is also home to the Mid-America All-Indian Museum. There is also a Veterans Memorial park nearby. If you look closely on your walk near the river, you may find the Wichita troll. Shopping There are several shopping centers in Wichita, with the most prominent being Bradley Fair and NewMarket Square. Bradley Fair is on the Northeast side of town, known for it's upscale shopping and restaurants. NewMarket Square is also a popular shopping destination on the Northwest side of town. Top Golf The national chain recently opened in Wichita near the end of 2022 and has been a hot place to hang out. Known as a high tech, interactive and gamified driving range, TopGolf is a fun environment for anyone, regardless of golf skill, or lack of. Chicken and Pickle With the insane rise of pickleball recently, Chicken and Pickle has cemented itself as the trendy hangout spot for all. Hosting birthday parties, corporate gatherings, or just want to hangout with friends, Chicken and Pickle has both outdoor and indoor pickle ball courts and a full restaurant, along with various other yard games that you can play for free. Riverfront Stadium Replacing the historic Lawrence-Dumont stadium, Riverfront Stadium, built in 2020, hosts the Wichita Wind Surge, a Double A affiliate of the Minnesota Twins. It has also played host to high school events, concerts, festivals, and seasonal events, including weddings and high school reunions. Wichita RiverFest The Wichita Riverfest is an annual event that features a wide range of activities, including music, food, and fireworks. Visitors can join in the celebration and enjoy the festivities with the local community. These are just a few examples of the many events and activities available in Wichita, so be sure to explore and find what suits your interests. Must-try Food Options Wichita offers a diverse range of unique and popular dining options for both locals and visitors. Some of the most notable include: Fine Dining George's French Bistro A five-star French restaurant, Georges offers a classy dining experience in a romantic atmosphere. Enjoy savory crêpes & entrees in an elevated, intimate environment with a full bar & patio. Sabor Specializing in Latin American cuisine from countries such as Mexico, Peru, and Colombia, Sabor Latin Bar & Grille is known for its lively atmosphere and delicious food located in the heart of Oldtown Square. DŌMA The main dining room of DŌMA features views of the open kitchen and sits alongside a fully stocked bar sitting beside an expansive lounge that stretches the length of the building. The food is all shareable to where you can order 4 to 5 dishes. Chester's Chophouse & Wine Bar Considered one of Wichita’s finest restaurants, this iconic Wichita chophouse & wine bar overlooks the lake at Waterfront. Enjoy a full menu of starters, entrèes and desserts as well as a 1,000-bottle wine cellar. Scotch & Sirloin An award-winning steakhouse since 1969, the newly remodeled Scotch & Sirloin is home to the largest wine wall in Kansas, premium steaks from Sterling Silver Meats and the largest selection of scotch in the city of Wichita First Mile Kitchen First Mile Kitchen is a wonderful place to go for seasonal cooking from the live-fire hearth with an innovative cocktail, coffee, and wine menu. All of the ingredients are locally sourced and raised foods. They offer two separate menus one for breakfast/lunch and one for dinner. Casual Dempsey's Burger Pub Some consider Dempsey's the best burger in town. Visit this highly-rated restaurant and enjoy gourmet burgers made with Kobe beef, fish, chicken or veggies in a warm tavern setting with a patio located in Clifton Square in College Hill. Station 8 BBQ Previously a local fire department that served the Wichita community until about the late 1950s, Station 8 is now a delicious barbeque restaurant offering fresh-made barbeque, sides, and bread on-site every day for lunch. They always sell out and their hours are limited open Wednesday-Saturday 11:00am-2:00pm. HomeGrown Wichita's go-to breakfast and brunch spot has mutliple locations across the city. Known for their homemade poptarts, Instagram worthy plates, and rotating seasonal menu Homegrown is a must-visit for anyone in Wichita. Freddy's Steakburger You might be familiar with this fast food chain that specializes in steakburgers, malts, and shakes. Founded in Wichita, Kansas in 2002, experience the oldest venues Freddy’s can offer. Some even say (including myself) there's a notable difference between Freddy's in Wichita compared to locations out-of-town. Doo-Dah Diner Located in downtown Wichita right off of Kellogg, this classic American diner serves breakfast all day and comfort food dishes like meatloaf, fried chicken, and mac and cheese. Doo-Dah Diner is famous for its retro décor and it's amazing brunch menu. Authentic Gabby's Peruvian Restaurant Gabby's is an authentic, family owned Peruvian Restaurant all the way from Lima, Peru. Enjoy high quality Peruvian cuisine in a cozy and welcoming environment. Gabby's is considered one of the most authentic Peruvian food establishments in the US by some. N&J Cafe One of the oldest restaurants in Wichita, this Mediterranean joint offers great food with frequently rotating specials perfect for any occasion. Come here for Gyros, hummus, shawarma, and more. Little Saigon Little Saigon is of the most popular Vietnamese joints in town and they are known for their huge portion sizes. Visit this comfy, family-owned bar/eatery and enjoy homestyle Vietnamese to eat in or take out. Sapporo Experience a down-to-earth Japanese restaurant serving creative maki and excellent kitchen entrees with cocktails and imported beer. This place is considered one of the best in town for fresh sushi. Pizza Ziggy's Pizza Argued among Wichitans as one of the best Pizza places in Wichita, enjoy specialty pizzas and sandwiches at any of Ziggy’s four locations in Wichita to experience a staple restaurant of the city. Wichita Brewing Company Taste Wichita Brewing Company‘s ever-expanding selection of custom craft beers and enjoy their classic wood-fired pizzas and other awesome menu items for the entire family. They also have a rotating specialty pizza every month. Piatto Neapolitan Pizzeria Some consider it the best Pizza in town, but if you're wanting something more authentic, head down to the Douglas Design District and check out this quaint Neopolitan Pizza joint. With a light, airy crust, enjoy white and red sauce pizzas in a modern, rustic space with bar seating available around the pizza oven. They even have a popular pizza that has pistachios on it. Picasso's Pizzeria Grab some thin-crust, New York-style slices and pies that are made in a brick oven at this cozy family-run place. Known for the size of their slices and pizzas, one slice at Picasso’s is sure to fill you up! Il Vicino Located in Bradley Fair, stop by this contemporary Italian pizzeria serving authentic wood-fired pizza and calzones, baked lasagna and pastas, panini and piadina flatbread-style sandwiches, signature salads and crafted drinks Breweries and Coffee Shops Wichita offers a variety of signature breweries, coffee shops, and other niche places that are popular among locals and visitors. Some of the most notable include: Central Standard Brewing Central Standard Brewing is a craft brewery that specializes in a variety of beer styles, including IPAs, stouts, and pilsners and is know for their spacious outdoor environment. Hopping Gnome Located right next door to Piatto's Pizza, Hopping Gnome is a craft brewery that offers a rotating selection of beers, including IPAs, stouts, and pilsners. The brewery is known for its lively atmosphere and delicious food. Reverie Coffee Roasters Reverie Coffee Roasters is a local specialty coffee shop that offers a variety of coffee drinks, including espresso, pour-over, and cold brew. The shop is known for its high-quality coffee and relaxed atmosphere. The Monarch The Monarch is a "damn good backyard escape" according to their website. Stop by this getaway and enjoy a high-quality selection of sandwiches and bourbon. River City Brewery Located in the heart of Old Town, River City Brewery is a craft brewery that offers microbrews, a pub menu and live music in a turn-of-the-century space with lounge, TVs & outdoor deck Be sure to explore and try a variety of these establishments to experience the city’s local culture! Nightlife Wichita, Kansas has a vibrant nightlife scene with a variety of options to choose from. Some popular bars and clubs in the area include: Club Rodeo XY Industry Old Town Pumphouse The Wichita area is known for its live music scene, with frequent concerts and events taking place at venues such as The Cotillion The Wave For those looking for a more laid-back evening, there are several cozy wine bars and restaurants to enjoy a cocktail at Wine Dive First Mile Cantine Newport Grill The Belmont Whether you’re in the mood to dance, enjoy live music, or simply relax with a drink, Wichita has something for everyone. Education Wichita, Kansas has a variety of options for schooling, ranging from public school districts to private primary and secondary schools and colleges. Public School K-12 The Wichita Public School District (USD 259) WPS is the largest in the area and serves over 50,000 students in more than 70 schools. It offers a comprehensive curriculum and a range of programs, including those for English Language Learners, special education, and gifted and talented students. Private School K-12 For those interested in private education, Wichita has several notable options. Kapaun Mt Caramel Trinity Academy Classical School of Wichita The Independent School Wichita Collegiate School Bishop Carroll Sunrise Christian Academy Universities In terms of higher education, Wichita is home to several colleges and universities, including Wichita State University, Friends University, and Newman University. These institutions offer a range of undergraduate and graduate programs in fields such as business, engineering, education, and the arts. Additionally, Wichita has a number of technical and trade schools, such as WSU Tech, which offer vocational and career training programs for those seeking to enter the workforce or improve their job skills. It consists of various locations such as the new National Institute for Culinary and Hospitality Education (NICHE). Financial & Real Estate Banks Wichita is home to a diverse range of banks, both national and local. If you’re planning to move to Wichita, you’ll find plenty of options to choose from to manage your finances. Three of the larger banks with a presence in Wichita are Capitol Federal, Intrust Bank, and Fidelity. There are also a couple dominant Credit Union's that have a large footprint in ICT, including Meritrust Credit Union and Credit Union of America. Mortgage Firm JR Mortgage Group The #1 Mortgage brokerage in town, and in the entire state of Kansas, is JR Mortgage Group. Reach out to get pre-approved, start your home buying process, or just want to learn more about the home buying process. Real Estate Agents Listed below are some of the top real estate agents in Wichita for homebuyers moving to the area. These agents specialize in the Wichita market and can answer any questions you have when deciding what area in Wichita you want to live in. Justin Crafton Bobbie Lane Carla Phillips Transportation The most popular form of transportation in Wichita, Kansas is private vehicles, such as cars and trucks. This is due to the city’s sprawling suburban areas and well-developed road networks, which make driving a convenient and efficient mode of transportation for most residents. Public transportation options, such as the Wichita Transit bus service, are also available but are used by a smaller portion of the population. Weather Wichita, Kansas has a temperate climate with hot summers and cold winters. Spring (March to May) temperatures average from the low 50s to low 80s with occasional rainfall. Summer (June to August) temperatures average from the low 80s to mid 90s with high humidity and occasional thunderstorms. Fall (September to November) temperatures average from the 50s to 70s with low humidity and occasional rain. Winter (December to February) temperatures average from the low 30s to mid 40s with occasional snowfall, although the amount of snow is generally light. Overall, Wichita has moderate precipitation levels throughout the year, with occasional heavy rainfall and thunderstorms during the summer months. Local Influencers to Follow Wichita by E.B. One of the biggest local influencers is Wichita by EB, who has a blog that reports on all things in the local food scene. Get restaurant reviews from this blog. Wichita by EB has a goal to visit every restaurant in Wichita and is constantly educating readers on upcoming events and must-try places in town. Wichita on the Cheap This blog covers free and inexpensive things coming up in Wichita for you. Find out about restaurant specials, local deals, family friendly activities and more! Wichita Life ICT Wichita Life ICT is a weekly newsletter and podcast, as well as a calendar that highlights local news, events, and people. They are one of the fastest growing newsletters in Wichita and keep locals informed on all things Wichita. Wichita Mom This blog is targeted specifically at local moms and families with information on kid friendly events happening, parenting resources, and a focus on connecting area moms with each other Local News Wichita has multiple local news stations, with the main 4 being KAKE, KSN, KWCH, and KSAS KAKE KAKE is an ABC affiliate and can be found on channel 10 KSN KSN is a NBC affiliate and can be found on channel 3 KWCH KWCH is a CBS affiliate and can be found on channel 12 KSAS KSAS is a FOX affiliate and can be found on channel 24 (or 4 for cable). They are known for doing their nightly news an hour earlier than the other 3 news stations, at 9PM instead of 10PM. Conclusion In conclusion, Wichita, Kansas is a city that offers a great quality of life with affordable housing, excellent education, job opportunities, and an abundance of recreational and cultural activities. The city’s unique blend of urban and rural environments offers the best of both worlds, providing access to big-city amenities while maintaining a sense of community and connection. Whether you’re starting a family, pursuing a career, or looking to retire, Wichita has something to offer for everyone. From its friendly people to its thriving economy, it’s no wonder why Wichita is consistently ranked as one of the best places to live in the United States. So, if you’re considering a move, give Wichita a chance, and you just might find that it’s the perfect place to call home. Looking to Purchase a Wichita Home? If you’re looking for a home in Wichita, get your lending from the best mortgage broker in the region. Here at JR Mortgage, we are a local mortgage broker serving the Wichita, and surrounding region. As a broker, we’re able to find the best terms and rates for you on the market, and we do that without the fees credit unions and banks charge. Reach out to us today and learn more how we can help! JR Mortgage Group Wichita Kansas Click to Call or Text: (316) 247-9639 This entry has 0 replies Comments are closed.
