Let the numbers do the talking.
Salina, KS vs Shawnee, KS
Salina, KS vs Shawnee, KS: What the data shows
Salina, KS is in Salina, KS while Shawnee, KS is in Shawnee, KS — both in the same state. On home prices, Salina, KS is the more affordable option at $162,800 median — $56,700 less than Shawnee, KS's $219,500. WYLT rates Salina, KS as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Shawnee, KS as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration.
Salina, KS has the stronger safety profile of the two. Salina, KS has Low violent crime and Moderate property crime. Shawnee, KS has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Salina, KS has High flood risk and Shawnee, KS has Low flood risk.
Shawnee, KS is the more walkable neighborhood. Salina, KS scores 6/100 (car-dependent) versus Shawnee, KS's 16/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Shawnee, KS has the higher school rating — Salina, KS rates 5.8/10 and Shawnee, KS rates 7/10.
| Category | Salina, KS | Shawnee, KS |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Good for now |
| Median Price | $163K ✓ Lower price | $220K |
| Median Rent | $866 ✓ Lower rent | $1K |
| Median Income | $59K | $75K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Low | Low |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 6/100 | 16/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | Minimal transit | 20/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | N/A |
| Commute | 60 min | 35 min ✓ Shorter commute |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | B ✓ Safer | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Low ✓ Lower risk | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | High | Low ✓ Lower risk |
| Air Quality | Good ✓ Cleaner air | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 5.8/10 | 7/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | Families looking for affordable homesPeople who prefer small-town quietLow-income buyers | FamiliesCommuters to Kansas CityStudents |
Bottom line
For families looking for an affordable home in a small-town setting with minimal amenities, Salina might be a good fit. However, for those seeking a balance between affordability and access to amenities like Kansas City, Shawnee's stronger schools and shorter commute make it the better choice. Overall, Shawnee is the more well-rounded option.
Share this comparison