Topeka
As Kansas's capital city, Topeka combines historical significance with contemporary living options. The Kansas State Capitol, featuring its distinctive copper dome and artistic murals, anchors the downtown district. The rental market offers diverse housing choices, from downtown lofts to suburban residences. Current average rents range from $805 for one-bedroom units to $1,434 for three-bedroom homes, with rates increasing approximately 4.5% over the past year. Notable areas include the historic Westboro neighborhood with its tree-lined streets and the College Hill district near Washburn University. Topeka's 126,500 residents enjoy numerous recreational spaces and cultural destinations. Gage Park houses both the Topeka Zoo and Reinisch Rose Garden, while Lake Shawnee offers outdoor activities including boating and fishing. The NOTO Arts District features local galleries and hosts monthly art walks. The Brown v. Board of Education National Historic Site preserves an important chapter in American history. The city's calendar includes community celebrations like Fiesta Mexicana. As the state capital, Topeka provides comprehensive healthcare facilities and shopping destinations, including West Ridge Mall, while maintaining its welcoming, mid-sized city character.
Wichita
Wichita, the largest city in Kansas, combines metropolitan living with Midwestern hospitality. Located along the Arkansas River, this community celebrates its aviation heritage while offering diverse rental options. Current rental trends show one-bedroom apartments averaging $799, while two-bedroom units average $1,005. The rental market includes downtown loft apartments in converted warehouses and residential communities in established neighborhoods like College Hill and Riverside. Old Town, housed in restored 19th-century buildings, features local shops and entertainment venues. As the "Air Capital of the World," Wichita maintains strong ties to aerospace manufacturing through major employers like Textron Aviation and Spirit AeroSystems. The city's outdoor spaces include the expansive Riverside Park and the Sedgwick County Zoo. Wichita State University enhances the northeast area with educational and cultural opportunities. Community events bring residents together throughout the year, with the Wichita River Festival hosting activities and celebrations along the Arkansas River. The Keeper of the Plains statue, standing where the Arkansas and Little Arkansas Rivers meet, represents an important landmark celebrating the region's Native American heritage.
Emporia
Situated in eastern central Kansas, Emporia is the county seat of Lyon County and home to Emporia State University. A wealth of parks and recreation centers offer plenty to do in Emporia in addition to the surrounding Flint Hills, which offer some of the best road cycling opportunities in the United States. A close-knit cycling community coupled with the terrain of the Flint Hills earns Emporia the nickname of the Gravel Grinding Capital of the World, hosting the annual Dirty Kanza 200 every year. Touting a distinct small-town vibe, Emporia displays a proud history at the William Allen White House, Red Rocks State Historic Site, and the streets and shops of Historic Downtown Emporia. Residents bond at numerous annual events in Emporia, including the Glass Blown Open Disc Golf Tournament, Cinco de Mayo Celebration, Flatland Cruisers Car Show, All Veterans Tribute, Lyon County Free Fair, and the Christmas Parade as well as various events at Emporia State University. Getting around from Emporia is simple with access to U.S. 50 and Interstates 35 and 335. Kansas City, Wichita, and Topeka are all within a two-hour drive from Emporia as well.
