Let the numbers do the talking.
Derby, KS vs Shawnee, KS
Derby, KS vs Shawnee, KS: What the data shows
Derby, KS is in Derby, KS while Shawnee, KS is in Shawnee, KS — both in the same state. On home prices, Derby, KS is the more affordable option at $214,200 median — $5,300 less than Shawnee, KS's $219,500. WYLT rates Derby, KS as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Shawnee, KS as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration.
Derby, KS has the stronger safety profile of the two. Derby, KS has Low violent crime and Moderate property crime. Shawnee, KS has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Derby, KS has Low flood risk and Shawnee, KS has Low flood risk.
Shawnee, KS is the more walkable neighborhood. Derby, KS scores 4/100 (car-dependent) versus Shawnee, KS's 16/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Shawnee, KS has the higher school rating — Derby, KS rates 5.8/10 and Shawnee, KS rates 7/10.
| Category | Derby, KS | Shawnee, KS |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Good for now |
| Median Price | $214K ✓ Lower price | $220K |
| Median Rent | $1K ✓ Lower rent | $1K |
| Median Income | $82K ✓ Higher income | $75K |
| Price Volatility | Low | Low |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 4/100 | 16/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | Minimal transit | 20/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | N/A |
| Commute | 30 min ✓ Shorter commute | 35 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | B ✓ Safer | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Low ✓ Lower risk | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good ✓ Cleaner air | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 5.8/10 | 7/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | FamiliesRemote workersRetirees | FamiliesCommuters to Kansas CityStudents |
Bottom line
For families and budget-conscious buyers prioritizing affordability and solid schools, Derby is a slightly better option due to its lower median home price. However, those seeking slightly better schools and a slightly more walkable environment may prefer Shawnee, despite its slightly higher median home price. Ultimately, the choice between Derby and Shawnee depends on your individual priorities, with neither neighborhood standing out significantly from the other.
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