Did you know that Valley Center in Kansas was temporarily evacuated on July 17, 2007? An explosion at Barton Solvents chemical plant contaminated the city, with cleanup beginning a few weeks later.
Set close to Interstate 35 and US Route 81, the city of Valley Center lies in Sedgwick County, Kansas and has a population of around 6,822 people
Did you know that Valley Center in Kansas was temporarily evacuated on July 17, 2007? An explosion at Barton Solvents chemical plant contaminated the city, with cleanup beginning a few weeks later.
Set close to Interstate 35 and US Route 81, the city of Valley Center lies in Sedgwick County, Kansas and has a population of around 6,822 people. The city is small and the community close-knit, with the official website providing a useful resource for residents, visitors and anyone considering moving here.
Moving to Valley Center
If searching for a rental apartment in Valley Center is on the menu, there's some good news! The official city website has a rentals list which is a must-have for anyone searching for rental apartments in the area. The information provided is from local realtors and rental agents as well as private landlords so if you're looking to find an apartment, you could bag a bargain by checking out some of the available properties on the rental list!
What You Need vs. What You Want
It's important to think about what type of property you need if you're considering moving here. Whilst this fairly small city has a diverse range of properties to choose from, you're more likely to find 2, 3 and 4 bedroom apartments and houses then you are studio and one bedroom properties, for the most part. So if you're looking for a one bedroom apartment to rent, this could pose a challenge! Allow yourself at least four to six weeks to hunt for a property and don't settle for second best. Be sensible and think about what you actually need versus what you want. If you have a dog, outdoor space or a large yard will usually be essential. Make sure you're realistic about what you can afford, too.
Friendly Community
The area is friendly thanks to low crime rates and good schools, and if it's a solid, quiet community you are after (you won't find any buzzing night life here!) than Valley Center could be just the place for you. Most residents rely on cars, as there isn't really any public transport worth mentioning, and getting from A to B without a car could prove tricky. Although it's one of the most expensive regions to buy or rent in Kansas, Valley Center has plenty of employment opportunities, particularly in IT.
Securing your Dream Pad
The best times of year to hunt for rental apartments here are at the start and end of the year, although spring is always a good time too. While many private landlords take a more relaxed view to rentals -- most will only care that you prove you can pay the rent each month -- you should still ensure you have the usual documentation to hand when apartment hunting here. That means pay stubs, bank statements, credit check, ID and, of course, the first month's rent and deposit. Providing references from previous landlords or at least a rental history also works in your favor, so try to get hold of this if you can. If you're renting through an agency, the criteria may be more strict, and depending on the size of property you're looking for, you may have to meet a minimum income amount to prove you can afford the rent. This is why it's always a good idea to start your search for rental apartments in Valley Center well in advance!
Valley Center Neighborhoods
Due to its small size, there are no distinct neighborhoods in Valley Center, but no matter where you stay you will normally need to rely on driving to get from point A to point B, although there are usually grocery stores within walking distance if you live near the city center. It's definitely worth checking out rental opportunities at new developments such as Valley Creek Estates.
Living in Valley Center
Life here is peaceful; no two ways about it. So if you're looking for a hip, happening city with buzzing nightlife, this probably isn't the place for you. If it's community spirit you're after, Valley Center has it in spades. You'll find restaurants with a relaxed vibe such as Larry's Burgers and Pizza Hut as well as great Mexican eateries like Tequilas LLC, where you can chill out with enchiladas and a mojito. Spirits Pub is also a popular local haunt for a quick after-work drink with friends. Just a short drive away is Wichita where you can check out attractions such as Sedgwick County Zoo, the Old Cowtown Museum or the ever-popular Wichita Art Museum. Valley Center is the perfect city for anyone looking for a slower pace of life.