When considering a new place to call home, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons of the location. Wichita, Kansas, has a lot to offer its residents with affordable housing, a diverse dining scene, and plenty of outdoor activities. Wichita’s central location makes it a convenient destination for business and leisure travelers, with easy access to other major cities in the area. However, there are also drawbacks to living in Wichita, such as extreme weather conditions, limited entertainment options, and traffic congestion.
So before you start watching House for sale Or Apartment in Wichita, KSCheck out this Redfin guide on the top 10 pros and cons to consider before moving to Wichita.
Pros of Living in Wichita
1. Strength
Wichita, KS, is more affordable near the cost of living Compared to other major markets in the vicinity, it is a great place to consider calling home. opposite of this, Kansas City, KS, located on the state’s eastern border, is known for being a more expensive city, with a cost of living 44% higher than Wichita. One of the primary reasons for Wichita’s low cost of living is the relatively cheap housing. For example, the Average Sale Price in Wichita is $210,000, which is almost 91% less than National average of $400,500. If you’re ready to move to Wichita, Kansas, you might want to check out this article related to the popular Wichita Suburbs,
2. Fine Dining Scene
Wichita has a diverse, vibrant dining scene that suits every taste and budget. Local restaurants and cafes offer a variety of cuisine, including classic Kansas-style barbecue, Tex-Mex, international cuisine, and specialty coffees. Popular barbecue joints include Hog Wild Pit Barb-BQ, B&C Barbecue, and Pig In Pig Out BBQ. For Tex-Mex cooking, Abuelo, Felipe and El Agave are top choices. International cuisine options include Indian, Vietnamese, Japanese and Mediterranean, along with local favorites such as The Spice Merchant & Company, Saigon and Yokohama Ramen Izakaya. The city also has a thriving coffee scene, with artisanal coffee shops like Reverie Coffee Roasters, The Donut Hole, and Cocoa Dolce Artisan Chocolates.
3. Outdoor Activities
There are plenty of outdoor activities available to Wichita residents and visitors. The city has several parks, such as Sedgwick County Park and Pawnee Prairie Park, that provide opportunities for hiking, picnicking, and bird watching. The Arkansas River, which runs through the city, is also a popular sport for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. Wichita has a variety of top-rated courses for those who enjoy golfing, such as Auburn Hills Golf Course and Reflection Ridge Golf Club.
4. Activities for All Ages
This Kansas city has something to offer people of all ages, with a wide variety of activities and attractions available. There are several parks and playgrounds for those who enjoy outdoor activities, as well as the Sedgwick County Zoo and Exploration Place, which offers interactive exhibits and programs for all ages. In addition, Wichita hosts several annual events that bring people together, such as the Wichita Riverfest, which features popular artists such as Shaggy and the Eli Young Band, and the Kansas State Fair in September.
5. Central Location
Wichita, Kansas, is located in the central United States, making it convenient for business and leisure travelers. The city is located at the intersection of several major highways, including Interstate 35 and Interstate 135, which provide easy access to other major cities in the region. For example, Kansas City, TulsaAnd Oklahoma City All are within a few hours’ drive of Wichita. The city is also served by Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport, which offers non-stop flights to several major US cities.
Cons of Living in Wichita
1. Extreme Weather
Wichita is known for its extreme weather conditions, with hot summers and cold winters. During the summer months, temperatures can reach over 100 (°F) with high humidity levels, making it uncomfortable for those who are not used to such conditions. Thunderstorms and tornadoes are also common during the summer months, which can endanger public safety. In winter, temperatures can drop below freezing point, and ice and snow can accumulate, making driving and walking dangerous.
2. Limited entertainment options
While Wichita, Kansas has a wide variety of attractions and activities, some may find the entertainment options in the city limited compared to larger metropolitan areas. While there are options for museums, parks, and local events, such as the Wichita Riverfest, there are fewer options for nightlife and cultural events.
3. Lack of professional sports teams
Unlike other cities of similar size, Wichita does not have any major league baseball, football, basketball or hockey teams. While some argue that Wichita’s strong college sports scene fills the void for local sports fans, others believe that the absence of professional sports teams limits the city’s potential for economic growth and cultural vibrancy. Nonetheless, Wichita has minor league and semi-professional teams in various sports, as well as community sports leagues and recreational programs for all ages and skill levels.
4. Limited diversity in employment opportunities
While Wichita, Kansas, offers a wide variety of employment opportunities, some may find the assortment of jobs limited. The city’s economy is primarily driven by the aerospace and manufacturing industries, with companies such as Spirit Aerosystems and Textron Aviation being significant employers in the area. While these industries offer many job opportunities, they may not be suitable for individuals pursuing careers in other sectors.
5. Lack of Public Bike Infrastructure
Wichita, Kansas is a sprawling city with a low elevation Walk Score and Bike Score, making it difficult for residents and visitors to get around without a car. While there are some areas of the city that are more walkable and bike-friendly, many neighborhoods are sprawling and lack sidewalks or bike lanes, making it difficult to travel safely on foot or by bike. The lack of infrastructure for non-motorized transportation options also makes it less attractive to those who prefer to walk or bike for travel or exercise.
Additionally, the public transportation system in Wichita is not as developed as in other cities, further limiting transportation options. The city’s bus system, Wichita Transit, operates on a limited schedule with fewer routes, making it difficult for residents to reach parts of the city without a car.
