Opened in 1962, Wellington's Interlochen Arts Academy was the first art focused independent boarding school in the United States.
A top US wheat producer, Wellington, KS, the "Wheat Capital of the World," is the county seat of Sumner County and about a 45 minute drive from Wichita, the state's largest city
Opened in 1962, Wellington's Interlochen Arts Academy was the first art focused independent boarding school in the United States.
A top US wheat producer, Wellington, KS, the "Wheat Capital of the World," is the county seat of Sumner County and about a 45 minute drive from Wichita, the state's largest city. Part of the Wichita Metro Area, Wellington is known for its low cost of living, low crime rate and low population density (cattle not included!).
Moving to Wellington
In between the seemingly endless fields of wheat and grazing cattle, Wellington's population of about 8,172 people lives mainly in detached houses, but also some townhouses, mobile homes and apartments. With about 70% of the housing being owner occupied and 30% rented out, the really good news for renters here is that there can be a 50% vacancy rate for rentals at any one time and this is not due to high rents. Actually, rents here are about 11% less than the state average and 34% less than the national average!
So, what's the catch? Well, in Wellington, the available rentals are mainly 3 bedroom homes, with 2 bedroom units being the next most common. Studio rental apartments and one bedroom rentals are much more difficult to find here. Another thing to consider is the age of the homes in Wellington as the vast majority of housing was built between the 1940s and the 1970s. It's not that old is necessarily bad for rentals though, as older housing in good condition has stood the test of time. after all! To move here, begin your home rental search asap, and have your proof of income, credit check and damage deposit at the ready.
Neighborhoods in Wellington
Places to live in Wellington are spread out all over the town's 8.19 square miles. Too small to have actual neighborhoods, Wellington does have pockets of rental housing.
North Washington Avenue: You may find 3 bedroom homes to rent here as well as on some of the streets close by such as Apple Blossom Lane. Many 3 and 4 bedroom houses for rent are scattered around the town though so keep your house hunting eyes peeled for "For Rent" signs!
South F Street: This is the street to check if you're hoping to nab one of the very few studio or 1 bedroom apartment options in Wellington. These are typically smaller units that are 'all bills paid,' furnished apartments. They may be rented by the week as well as month to month.
North G Street and West 8th Street: There are a wide range of rental options here such as 2 bedroom apartments. You may even find a duplex for rent. Also check out Harvey Avenue near this area for more apartment options. This area is also close to the popular Chisholm Trail Museum on North Washington Avenue across from the courthouse. This "Museum of Domestic Life" has 40 rooms of historical exhibits from the Wichita area housed in a 3 story building that once served as a hospital. Get lost here for a few hours exploring Wellington's past!
East 16th Street: This is a main byway and includes wide types of rental homes such as houses, townhouses, mobile homes and apartments. Many of these are located near East 16th Street around Interstate 235 and Interstate 35. You'll also find hub of chain stores,boutiques and restaurants in this area -- especially near North Washington Avenue and East 16th Street. Check out the 1950s atmosphere at Penny's Diner; the milkshakes and burgers are a real treat!
Living in Wellington
Treat yourself to fun summer days spent at Wellington Lake with lots of room for boating, swimming and fishing. It's the perfect place for picnics and the recreational area also has campsites. Another big thing to do in the summer here, usually in July, is attending the Kansas Wheat Festival. It's kind of a big deal as this event continues to be an annual tradition since 1900 to celebrate the end of harvest time. Join in with the locals and get excited about wheat! When the weather's not so nice, there's still many interesting things to do here. For example, the National Glass Museum on South Washington Avenue is really a very fun place as it offers changing activities along with its collections of vintage glassware. You can enjoy just staying home all comfy cozy in your new place here in the Wheat Capital of the World.