Let the numbers do the talking.
Derby, KS vs Liberal, KS
Derby, KS vs Liberal, KS: What the data shows
Derby, KS is in Derby, KS while Liberal, KS is in Liberal, KS — both in the same state. On home prices, Liberal, KS is the more affordable option at $125,600 median — $88,600 less than Derby, KS's $214,200. WYLT rates Derby, KS as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Liberal, KS as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Both neighborhoods have similar safety profiles. Derby, KS has Low violent crime and Moderate property crime. Liberal, KS has Low violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Derby, KS has Low flood risk and Liberal, KS has Low flood risk.
Liberal, KS is the more walkable neighborhood. Derby, KS scores 4/100 (car-dependent) versus Liberal, KS's 36/100 (mostly car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Liberal, KS has the higher school rating — Derby, KS rates 5.8/10 and Liberal, KS rates 7/10.
| Category | Derby, KS | Liberal, KS |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Think twice |
| Median Price | $214K | $126K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $1K | $826 ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $82K ✓ Higher income | $56K |
| Price Volatility | Low | Low |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 4/100 | 36/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | Minimal transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | N/A |
| Commute | 30 min ✓ Shorter commute | 45 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | B | B |
| Violent Crime | Low | Low |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 5.8/10 | 7/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | FamiliesRemote workersRetirees | budget familiesfirst‑time homebuyersretirees looking for quiet |
Bottom line
If you're a family or remote worker who prioritizes a quiet, affordable lifestyle but don't need a lot of city amenities, Liberal might be a better fit. However, if you value better schools, more amenities, or a shorter commute, Derby is the smarter choice. Ultimately, Liberal's extremely low cost comes with significant trade-offs that may not suit everyone.
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