Let the numbers do the talking.
Gardner, KS vs Hutchinson, KS
Gardner, KS vs Hutchinson, KS: What the data shows
Gardner, KS is in Gardner, KS while Hutchinson, KS is in Hutchinson, KS — both in the same state. On home prices, Hutchinson, KS is the more affordable option at $83,000 median — $176,200 less than Gardner, KS's $259,200. WYLT rates Gardner, KS as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Hutchinson, KS as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration.
Both neighborhoods have similar safety profiles. Gardner, KS has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Hutchinson, KS has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Gardner, KS has Low flood risk and Hutchinson, KS has Low flood risk.
Hutchinson, KS is the more walkable neighborhood. Gardner, KS scores 7/100 (car-dependent) versus Hutchinson, KS's 53/100 (somewhat walkable). For families weighing school quality, Gardner, KS has the higher school rating — Gardner, KS rates 6.8/10 and Hutchinson, KS rates 5.8/10.
| Category | Gardner, KS | Hutchinson, KS |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Good for now |
| Median Price | $259K | $83K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $1K | $823 ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $92K ✓ Higher income | $48K |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Low ✓ More stable |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 7/100 | 53/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | 2/100 | 10/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | 31/100 ✓ More bikeable | N/A |
| Commute | 30 min | N/A |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good ✓ Cleaner air | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 6.8/10 ✓ Better schools | 5.8/10 |
| Best for | FamiliesFirst‑time homebuyersRemote workers | Budget conscious familiesFirst‑time home buyersRenters looking for low cost |
Bottom line
For families with lower budgets, Hutchinson's significantly lower housing costs and lower commute time if you work locally might make it a solid choice. However, if you're a young professional or remote worker seeking a more vibrant community, Gardner's still a better fit due to its slightly stronger schools and better overall quality of life, despite its car dependency. Ultimately, they cater to different lifestyles.
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