Sign In Register
Cameron Bailey housing

Is Shawnee still affordable?

Longtime lurker here, I'm originally from Kansas City and You can expect to pay around $1,233 for rent here. The unemployment rate is 2.2%, which is pretty low. Poverty rate is 3.2%, which is pretty low. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. The food scene here is surprisingly good. Property taxes are high but you get good services.

Pros:
- Affordable cost of living
- Good job market
- Friendly people
- Good schools
- Strong sense of community

Cons:
- Rising rent prices
- Limited nightlife
- Few job opportunities in some fields
- Far from major airports
Does this match your experience? It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. The weather takes some getting used to. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. The weather takes some getting used to. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. The weather takes some getting used to. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level.
18 upvotes

2 Replies

Andrew Bennett
Can confirm, been here 7 years.
23 upvotes
minneapolis_robert
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.

I've been in Pine Hills for 4 years. Moved from Salt Lake City for family. Here's my honest, detailed take:

**Housing:**
The market right now is challenging. We bought in 2016 at k and it's now worth up a bit than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts.

**Employment:**
education is strong here. finance is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are competitive for the area.

**Quality of Life:**
the quality of life is solid. The outdoor scene is solid - we have lakes within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.

**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Pine Hills schools are excellent. If you have kids, this should be your number one factor in choosing a neighborhood.

**The Bad:**
I'd be lying if I said everything is great. Limited high-paying job options. Bugs and humidity in summer. And pet-friendliness can be frustrating.

**Bottom line:**
For families, I'd say this is a 5/10. Definitely worth checking out.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
7 upvotes
← Back to Shawnee Community