If you’re thinking about moving to Kansas, bustling cities like Wichita or Topeka might come to mind. However, this state has much more to offer. From quaint downtowns to festivals that bring the community together, Kansas’ small towns are perfect for anyone looking to experience what life is like in its quieter corners. In this Redfin article, we’ll discuss 8 charming small towns in Kansas, each with their own unique character and plenty of reasons to call home.
1. McPherson, KS
Median Sale Price: $285,000
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McPherson is a quiet small town located in central Kansas. The McPherson Opera House, a beautifully restored 19th-century building, serves as a cultural hub in the town, offering live performances, films, and community events. McPherson is also home to the All Schools Day Parade, one of the longest-running celebrations in Kansas. During this event, locals come together for a week of festivities, including parades, carnivals, and concerts. On weekends, you can find people spending time at Lakeside Park, a peaceful spot with walking trails, playgrounds, and picnic areas.
2. Ottawa, KS
Median Sale Price: $201,000
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Located along the Marais des Cygnes River, Ottawa has small-town charm with plenty to explore. One of the town’s most iconic landmarks is the historic Plaza Cinema, recognized as the oldest operating movie theater in the world. Each September, Ottawa hosts the annual Ol’ Marais River Run Car Show, attracting car enthusiasts from all over the Midwest to show off their vintage vehicles. The town’s downtown area is perfect for strolling, with boutique shops and local eateries like the popular Zelda’s Bakery offering freshly baked pies and pastries.
3. Arkansas City, KS
Median Sale Price: $113,000
Homes for sale in Arkansas City | Apartments for rent in Arkansas City
Arkansas City, often abbreviated as Ark City, sits near the Oklahoma border. The town’s annual Arkalalah Festival is a long-standing fall tradition. The event draws thousands of visitors for its lively parade, carnival rides, and delicious food fair. History buffs can explore the Cherokee Strip Land Rush Museum, which tells the story of the 1893 land rush and the town’s role in this pivotal moment in American history. Arkansas City is also home to Paris Park, where locals relax by the Walnut River, enjoy playgrounds, and host social gatherings.
4. Newton, KS
Median Sale Price: $168,000
Homes for sale in Newton | Apartments for rent in Newton
Newton’s storied railroad past is preserved at the Harvey County Historical Museum. Here, you can learn about Newton’s role as a major rail hub during the late 19th century. Newton celebrates its cultural diversity with events like Taste of Newton, an annual food festival where locals sample dishes from around the world. Residents often enjoy biking along the Sand Creek Trail, a scenic path that winds through parks and along the creek, offering a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle.
5. Great Bend, KS
Median Sale Price: $190,000
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Great Bend is a town that thrives on its connection to nature and wildlife. Located near Cheyenne Bottoms, the largest inland marsh in the U.S., Great Bend is a prime spot for birdwatchers who come to see migratory birds like sandhill cranes and pelicans. The town is also home to the Wetlands Education Center, where visitors can learn about the unique ecosystem and its significance to Kansas. Each June, Great Bend hosts the June Jaunt, a weekend-long festival filled with live music, food vendors, and a classic car show.
6. Coffeyville, KS
Median Sale Price: $101,500
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Coffeyville is probably best known as the site where the infamous Dalton Gang met their end in 1892. The Dalton Defenders Museum commemorates this dramatic moment in history, with exhibits dedicated to the brave townspeople who stopped the gang’s attempt. Each year, Coffeyville celebrates its frontier past with the Dalton Defenders Days. This festival includes reenactments, parades, and carnival rides. On weekends, locals enjoy taking in the scenic views at Walter Johnson Park, a popular spot for picnics and outdoor activities.
7. Lansing, KS
Median Sale Price: $304,000
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Home to the Kansas State Penitentiary, Lansing offers visitors a look into its unique past through the Lansing Historical Museum. The museum includes exhibits on the prison’s history and its role in the town’s development. Lansing honors its military heritage during the annual Veterans Day Parade, one of the largest in the state, attracting participants from all over Kansas. For outdoor enthusiasts, Angel Falls Trail provides a peaceful escape. The trail features a waterfall, plenty of walking paths, and opportunities to spot local wildlife.
8. Council Grove, KS
Median Sale Price: $225,000
Homes for sale in Council Grove | Apartments for rent in Council Grove
Council Grove was once a key stop along the Santa Fe Trail. Because of this, the town is filled with landmarks that recall its frontier past. The Kaw Mission State Historic Site provides a glimpse into the town’s early days, when it served as a mission for the Kaw Nation. The town is also home to the 500-year-old Council Oak Tree. The tree is a symbol of the treaties signed between the U.S. government and the Native American tribes. For outdoor lovers, the nearby Council Grove Lake is a great place for boating, fishing, and camping.
Methodology: The median home sale price is from the Redfin Data Center.
