Moving to Wichita area need info (Derby, Andover: work, housing, high crime)

[ordinaryaveragegirl]

The better school districts in the area tend to be Maize, Andover, Goddard, and Derby, and we did a ton of research before we moved here. I personally know people who live in all four areas, and are very happy. We happen to live on the west side (Reflection Ridge area), and love where we are. There's a lot here, but still plenty of room for growth. But you also have very easy access to almost anywhere in town via 96, 235, or Kellogg. As for school districts, I can't say enough about Maize schools; the support from the staff and parents is incredible. My oldest son has continually done well, and my second oldest son, who is autistic, is thriving, thanks to a very innovative structured program. I look very forward to my daughter starting school, and I'm sure she will also have success. There's a lot of opportunity here in Wichita. It's growing steadily without the nasty problems like pollution and sprawl.

[Torn2pieces]

Doesn't Wichita have lots of crime/gang activity though? I hear it on the news every day and nite. I go to Wichita a few times a year to do some shopping as it's 2:20 minutes from me. I have to say there's lots to do, but personally from all I see on Tv about the shootings and what not, I would never risk moving there.

This of course is only my opinion and thoughts.

[BSANDERS]

Hello! Best of luck with the move. You will find crime wherever you go. I live in a small town approximately 30 miles east of Wichita. Leon, Ks. We are a small, approximately 500 - 600 people town w/ virtually no crime. There are currently 2 - 3 homes listed & have been listed for a few months--you may be able to get them pretty cheap. Moderator cut: advertising

[vergla]

my husband and i are thinking of relocating to hutchinson kansas but i was woundering how the public schools over there and if there is alot of things the childern can do. my state where we live now is in iowa and there isnt much to do or see and nothing for my kids to do here . if someone could tell me more about kansas it would help us to be more prepared.

[ram0166]

Have you moved yet? I have lived in Wichita for 2 1/2 years. Wichita is a big country town. The people here are nice and are convinced they don't live in a big city. While it is small in comparison to cities on the coasts it is still a big city. The difference is that Wichita values are more rural and steeped in the states agricultural foundation.

The thing about the people here is that they are lousy drivers. They are afraid to merge and they are rude when they drive. Everyone drives like they are the only person on the road. So commuting across town is not a good experience.

[HerGram]

I have a question about Reflection Ridge. I am curious about the HOA fees. Could someone give me a general idea of what to expect on a $300,000 home? What amenities are available there?

[ljkbsb]

We recently moved from Wichita and miss it everyday. We lived on the West side and were in the Goddard school district. Our housing addition was nice, with houses ranging from 1200 to 1600 sq. ft., most with view out basements running around $ 155,000. My son went to speech therapy at Goddard Elementary under the "No Child Left Behind" act and worked with a wonderful therapist. We moved to the South and their public education is seriously lacking.

[ljkbsb]

I lived in Hutchinson for 15 years and loved it. It has a small town atmosphere, but has shopping and lots of golf. If you want the bigger city, Wichita is only 45 minutes away. The school districts are good, but Buhler district is one of the best. Many homes in Hutchinson are located in the Buhler district. Your kids would receive a quality public education.

[Ellie C.]

Be aware of the taxes and the water bills in Derby! I like Benton too, but the commute is a bit far from McConnell, IMHO. Andover is nice and will still be convenient for you. Steer clear of the Wichita public school system. Derby and Andover are far far better.

Also, be sure to ask about "specials". These are taxes that are attached to newer homes that can run in the 5 figure range!

[Crazy_Daisy]

Goddard is great! I loved living in Wichita by the way. It is a big town, and it has a lot of offer. The Waren Theater is the best one that I have ever been to in the U.S. including New York City. I am sorry that I had to move from to the East Coast, because Wichita was my favorite place of all.