Wichita is the largest city in Kansas, with a population of over 389,000 residents as of 2018. Its huge population is attributed to its thriving economy, low cost of living, and affordable housing prices. For first time homebuyers and new families, Wichita may be the perfect place to call home.
As an industrial hub, Wichita is also the regional center of culture, media, and trade. Central to its economy, aircraft manufacturing comprises more than 21.3 percent of the employment rate in the city. Much more than just its thriving aircraft manufacturing industry, however, here are more reasons you should consider moving to Wichita.
A Good Place to Live
Wichita has one of the lowest cost of living indexes in the country, coming up at 86.3, whereas the national average is at 100. This figure means that the residents of Wichita can afford their basic expenses and pay the bills; and still have money left to save or spend on themselves.
The calculation for the cost of living covers all basic, daily expenses, such as groceries, health care, housing, utilities, transportation, and other miscellaneous bills. In other states and cities, these daily expenses cost higher, which increases the cost of living in a certain area.
One example is the city of Oklahoma, which is the largest city in the state of Oklahoma. Its living index is at 91.5. It’s lower than the national average, but still higher than the cost of living in Wichita. The overall health care index in Oklahoma City is 118.5, while Wichita’s index is at 98.7. Additionally, transportation costs in Oklahoma City totals 110.2, against Wichita’s 92.8.
But the low cost of living may not be the only affordable aspect to the south-central city in Kansas.
Affordable Housing Prices
The national average cost for homes in the country is $219,700, while in Wichita the current average cost of a home is $139,900. The city recently ranked fifth, among 100 cities, in the most affordable housing markets in the US. Clearly, a look through Wichita real estate listings will present you with numerous, price-friendly options on turnkey homes.
The city’s housing market is also comparatively better for professionals in the education sector. First-year teachers in Wichita need to spend only 10 percent of their income to pay for half of a two-bedroom apartment. Teachers in their fifth year, meanwhile, only have to use 14 percent of their income to rent a one-bedroom apartment. But in a third of the biggest cities in America, teachers would need to use 30 percent of their income to rent a place.
Wichita has seen tremendous growth over decades. As the largest metro area and business hub of Kansas, you will find plenty of job opportunities and lifestyle activities. And all for that Midwest price.
Whether you’re looking to make a career change or seeking a new place to live, Wichita may be a good option. With its low cost of living and affordable housing, you can make a pretty comfortable life in the heart of the Midwest.
