Christmas is less than one week away! Have you mailed your wish list to Santa? If you asked Jolly Old St. Nicholas for the perfect home, don't be surprised if he moves you to one of these 12 Kansas towns:
1. Andover
Located near Wichita, this town of 12,000 that has seen a whopping 47% income increase in the past few years, as well as a low crime rate (the chance of being the victim of any crime in Andover is 1:40). Parents, take note: the Andover School District has been recognized numerous times by the National School Boards Association for their advancement in digital technology.
2. Newton
If you are searching for "Life as it Should Be," look no further than Newton, which offers small(er) town living just minutes from the city. In addition to its close proximity to Wichita, Newton is a win in terms of history (the town was once an an important railroad shipping point of Texas cattle), friendly neighbors, and a thriving downtown area.
3. Hays
Named 1996's "All-America City" by the National Civic League, Hays is home to Fort Hays State University, a thriving arts scene, unique festivals, and a proud heritage unlike any other.
4. Lawrence
Named one of Livability's Top 100 Best Places to Live, Lawrence has a little something for everyone, including retirees (unique shopping and cultural events), students (KU, Baby!), and families (a strong educational system and outdoor recreation)!
5. Overland Park
Livability sure loves Kansas... and who can blame them? In addition to being named one of the 100 Best Places to Live, Overland Park was named #1 of the 10 Best Cities for Families because of their "highly rated schools, pristine parks, affordable neighborhoods and great support network."
6. Abilene
With a low cost of living (the median home value in 2012 was $114,400), 54% long-term rise in median income, charming community, and fascinating events, it's no wonder Ike liked Abilene!
7. Mulvane
Located just south of Wichita, Mulvane is a quaint town with a 45% income growth in the past 10 years, strong community pride, and an interesting background. (Fun Fact: the Town of Mulvane was originally laid out at the junction of five Santa Fe rail lines.)
8. Leawood
Leawood is a picture-perfect city chock full of beautiful neighborhoods, caring community members, an award-winning school district, and low crime rate (1:68). It's one and only downfall? The cost of living is notably higher than the state average.
9. Manhattan
Who can forget the Little Apple... Livability sure didn't when they named them #70 of their Top 100 Best Places to Live, noting their well-regarded schools, community pride, and "health and housing opportunities."
10. Lindsborg
Since we recently gushed about our love of Lindsborg, it should come as no surprise that they made our list! Little Sweden U.S.A. is a small town (3,442) with easy access to the city, as well as highly regarded heritage festivals, shops, restaurants, and historic landmarks.
11. Council Grove
Experience the "Flint Hills Life" firsthand in historic Council Grove with its annual Washunga Days, Kaw Mission State Historic Site, and delicious 1857 Hays House. (Fun Fact: Council Grove sits at the crossroads of the Santa Fe Trail
and the Flint Hills Scenic Byway.)
12. De Soto
This Kansas City suburb boasts not only a growing population and healthy job market, but beautiful parks, outdoor areas, and a highly regarded school district.
Are you lucky enough to call any of these towns "home"?
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