Cost Of Living
Everyday cost of living expenses like goods and services, housing, groceries, transportation, health care and utilities are far below the national average.
Crime
This area boasts a crime rate that is far below the national average, making it a very safe place to live. These crime statistics encompass both property and violent offenses.
Housing
Impressive scores in the housing category characterize this area, potentially attributed to the availability of affordable housing, strong appreciation rates and high home values.
Health & Safety
Accessible health facilities like hospitals, doctors offices, clinics and nursing homes as well as good air quality are all factors that have led to a high score in this category.
Amenities
The majority of amenities will be difficult to reach within a short walk, often requiring residents to use a vehicle or public transportation for access.
Commute
Low commute scores could be due to limited access to public transit in this area, as well as longer-than-average work commute times for residents.
Located in the state of Kansas, Valley Center is a small city with a population of 7,843 people. If we take a look at the last Census, the vast majority of the population falls within one racial group (89% White). Given that fact, Valley Center could be considered less diverse than other cities. With an average age of 32 years old, Valley Center could be a great place to live for young adults as this age is well below the national average. Long travel times to work can be one of the most frustrating things in the world - right behind housework! If you decide that living in Valley Center is the right fit for you, your one way commute time will average 24 minutes, which is about average when compared to the national commute time of 26 minutes.
Living in Valley Center can be a great experience for anyone relocating to the area. Having said that, in the state of Kansas, there are many amazing places to live, so choose wisely! When searching for a new neighborhood, several factors play a vital role in determining its suitability. Safety should be a top priority, ensuring a secure environment with low crime rates. Proximity to your workplace or school helps minimize commuting time and allows for a better work-life balance. Availability of essential amenities such as parks, coffee shops, restaurants, grocery stores, and healthcare facilities contributes to convenience and well-being. Access to reliable public transportation options facilitates easy commuting and connectivity. Additionally, considering the sense of community and the overall atmosphere that resonates with your lifestyle and preferences fosters a harmonious living experience. The best areas in Valley Center and in surrounding cities are easier to find when you are able to make informed decisions. Using data from crime, cost of living, education, housing, you will see a detailed breakdown of the most important information as well as comparisons to the Kansas and national averages.
Using data and statistics Valley Center has received a livability score of 71 out of 100. This score is ranked in the 80th percentile when compared to all other cities. For each of the livability categories, we know that Valley Center ranks very well for crime (A+), cost of living (A+) and housing (A). On a more negative note, Valley Center does not have favorable ranks for the following: amenities (F). If we take a look at the data, we can find out why.
Ensuring a sense of security is paramount for the majority of residents in any area. Low crime rates exert a positive influence on various aspects, including home prices, rates of home appreciation and the cultivation of positive community dynamics and social cohesion. In the case of Valley Center, it boasts a notably low violent crime rate of 174 crimes per 100,000 residents, which significantly outperforms the national average.
For home buyers, real estate will be the largest purchase they will ever make and it will also be their most valuable asset. For renters, the monthly rent paid on their Valley Center apartments will most likely be their largest expense. Based on tangible metrics like home and rental affordability and appreciation rates, housing in this area has received a score that is well above the average of every other US city. A thriving real estate market can also generate strong local economic activity and job creation.
Valley Center real estate prices and overall affordability will play a huge role in determining if the area is the right fit for you. Of course there are probably some other items on your “wish list”, but even before they are considered, let’s take a look at the home prices and affordability in Valley Center. Median real estate prices in Valley Center come in at $156,400, which is 15.6% higher than the Kansas average. The home price to income ratio compares the median home prices to the median household income. In Valley Center, the home price to income ratio is 2.4, which is 4% lower than the Kansas average.
| Statistic | Valley Center | Kansas | National |
| Average one way commute | 24min | 19min | 26min |
| Workers who drive to work | 84.1% | 82.2% | 76.4% |
| Workers who carpool | 8.8% | 9.3% | 9.3% |
| Workers who take public transit | 0.0% | 0.5% | 5.1% |
| Workers who bicycle | 0.0% | 0.3% | 0.6% |
| Workers who walk | 3.2% | 2.4% | 2.8% |
| Working from home | 3.9% | 4.2% | 4.6% |
Here are the best places to live in Kansas
These are the 10 most affordable cities in Kansas
See the best places to live in & around Valley Center
10 best cities to buy a new house in Kansas