What To Know Before Moving To Derby, KS: Your Comprehensive Guide

Welcome to your all-inclusive guide to life in Derby, Kansas! Whether you're considering a move or simply curious about this charming city, we've got you covered. Rest assured, this guide dives deep into everything you need to know—from the local culture and community vibes to the nitty-gritty of real estate and employment opportunities. So, buckle up and prepare for an enlightening journey through Derby, the largest suburb of Wichita!

We understand that making a move or even just contemplating one can be overwhelming. That's why we've meticulously researched and compiled this guide to answer all your questions and ease any concerns. From the cost of living to the quality of local schools, consider this your go-to resource for all things Derby, KS.

Stay tuned as we explore Derby's greatest advantages, key industries, and tips for balancing work and life in this vibrant community. Trust us, you won't want to miss what's coming up!

About Derby, Kansas

Derby is the largest suburb of Wichita and is situated in Sedgwick County, Kansas, USA. According to the 2020 census data, the city has a population of 25,625.

History of Derby, KS

Initially called El Paso, Derby came into existence in the 1870s. Founders Hart Minnich and John Hufbauer officially established the city on July 11, 1871. To avoid confusion with El Paso in Texas, the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway renamed its station to Derby in 1880, in honor of C.F.

Derby, a railway official. The city remained primarily an agricultural area until after the Second World War. The aviation sector in nearby Wichita started to grow in the 1920s, and companies like Boeing, Cessna, and Beechcraft thrived especially during wartime.

Geography

Situated at coordinates 37°33′9″N 97°15′41″W (37.552407, -97.261492), Derby spans a total area of 9.60 square miles, as per the U.S. Census Bureau. Of this, 9.56 square miles is terrestrial, while a minor 0.04 square miles is aquatic.

Climate

The regional climate features warm, moisture-laden summers and generally temperate to chilly winters. Based on the Köppen Climate Classification, Derby experiences a humid subtropical climate, denoted as "Cfa" on climatic charts.

Demographics of Derby, KS

As of 2023, the city's population stands at 25,847, making it the 16th most populous city in the state of Kansas. The average age of residents is 37.5 years, and the median household income is $75,110. The typical home is valued at $251,744, while the average monthly rent is $891.

Local Culture and Community in Derby, Kansas

Derby is celebrated for its scenic green spaces and offers 25 miles of trails for biking and walking. The city is home to various parks equipped with playgrounds and sports amenities. Additionally, Derby hosts a monthly event called "City of Derby Third Thursday," featuring live music, food, drinks, and art displays. 

What Is The Cost Of Living in Derby, Kansas?

Living in Derby, Kansas is more affordable compared to the rest of the United States. Data reveals that Derby's cost of living is 6.7% below the national average. The most significant upticks in expenses are seen in areas like transportation, food, and housing.

Derby has a Cost of Living index of 82.8. This indicates that the combined expenses for housing, food, child care, transportation, healthcare, taxes, and other essentials are 17.2% less than what you'd expect to pay on average in the U.S.

Crime Rate And Safety Stats In Derby, Kansas

In Derby, the likelihood of falling victim to a violent crime is 1 in 615, while the odds for property crime are 1 in 51. The rate of violent crimes in Derby is 57% less than the national average. This positions Derby as safer than 46% of U.S. cities.

Local Amenities In Derby, Kansas

Derby, Kansas is a treasure trove of local amenities that cater to both residents and visitors:

Outdoor Activities:

Derby is celebrated for its beautiful green spaces and offers 25 miles of trails perfect for biking and walking. The city is home to a variety of parks, some designed for peaceful contemplation, while others are equipped with playgrounds and sports facilities.

Restaurants:

From fast food to fine dining, Derby's culinary scene is diverse. Notable eateries include Pizza John’s, Derby Donut, Los Cocos Mexican Restaurant, La Hacienda Mexican Restaurant, Chick-fil-A, Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers, RibCrib BBQ, Olive Garden Italian Restaurant, Village Inn, and Little Buster’s Sports Bar & Cafe.

Events:

Derby is a hub of community activities, hosting monthly events like the "City of Derby Third Thursday," which features live music, food, drinks, and art displays. Additionally, the Kansas Grown Farmers Market is a go-to spot for fresh produce, locally crafted goods, and a variety of other items.

Housing Facilities:

The typical home is valued at $251,744, while the average monthly rent is $891. Depending on the neighborhood and if you’re looking to buy or rent, many housing options offer a variety of amenities. From fitness centers, club rooms, and tanning beds, to business centers and swimming pools, whatever lifestyle you seek is likely just a search away.

Click here to browse properties and houses for sale in the Derby, KS area.

Great Local Schools in Derby

Derby, Kansas, is home to a number of excellent educational institutions. Below are some of the standout schools in the area:

Stone Creek Elementary School:

Recognized for its strong academic performance and commitment to equity, Stone Creek Elementary School is one of Derby's top public schools. It caters to students from pre-kindergarten to fifth grade.

Park Hill Elementary School:

Also ranking high among Derby's public schools, Park Hill Elementary School serves students from pre-kindergarten to fifth grade.

Tanglewood Elementary School:

Known for its impressive academic achievements, Tanglewood Elementary School offers education from pre-kindergarten to fifth grade.

Derby North Middle School:

Serving students in grades 6-8, Derby North Middle School is among the leading middle schools in Derby.

Derby High School:

Offering a broad curriculum for students in grades 9-12, Derby High School is highly regarded for its educational standards.

Key Industries and Employment Landscape in Derby, KS

The job market in Derby, Kansas, is quite varied, offering opportunities across multiple sectors. The primary industries that drive employment in both Derby and the broader Kansas area are:

Advanced Manufacturing: Kansas excels in cutting-edge manufacturing, emphasizing technological advancements and innovation. In Derby, firms like BG Precision CNC, a subsidiary of BG Automation, LLC, contribute to this high-tech manufacturing sector.

Corporate & Professional Services: The state of Kansas is a hub for companies specializing in professional services, ranging from finance and accounting to IT and architectural design. In Derby, businesses such as Premier Marketing Management, Inc. and Clearwater Engineering are key players in this sector.

Logistics & Distribution: With its central U.S. location, Kansas provides a unique logistical edge, boasting over 140,000 miles of roadways and top-tier interstate systems. In Derby, companies like XPO are key providers of logistics services.

Food Processing and Manufacturing: Kansas is a powerhouse in agriculture and food-related industries, leading in the production of various commodities like wheat and beef. Sig's Gourmet Butcher Shop in Derby is a local example of a business in this sector.

Aerospace & Defense: The state is home to global aerospace giants like Bombardier Learjet and Textron Aviation’s Beechcraft and Cessna. In the Derby area, Spirit AeroSystems is a notable manufacturer of aerospace parts.

Animal Health: Kansas stands out in the field of animal health and nutrition, with the Animal Health Corridor hosting the world's largest cluster of animal health companies. In Derby, establishments like Rainbow Valley Veterinary Clinic and El Paso Animal Hospital offer animal healthcare services.

Bioscience: The state's commitment to life sciences has attracted a growing number of biotech firms. Kansas is home to over 140 companies in the bioscience sector.

Agriculture: Agriculture is a cornerstone of the Kansas economy, leading the nation in the production of wheat and sorghum grains.

Energy & Natural Resources: Kansas is at the forefront of renewable energy, with wind power now exceeding coal as the state's primary electricity generation source.

One employer that stands out in Derby is Key Industries. Established in 1974, this organization has been dedicated to providing services to individuals with disabilities.

Transportation and Commuting Options in Derby, KS

Derby provides a variety of ways to get around for its residents:

Derby Dash:

Operating since 2007, Derby Dash is an on-demand public transit service available within the city limits of Derby. It's open to residents of all ages and operates from Monday to Friday, between 7:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.

Wichita Transit:

This service aims to offer reliable, courteous, and cost-effective public transportation to meet the needs of Wichita citizens, which also benefits Derby residents.

Commuting Stats:

The majority of Derby residents commute by car (88.7%), with carpooling coming in second at 6.8%. The average time spent commuting in Derby is 19.3 minutes, which is notably less than the U.S. average commute time of 26.4 minutes.

Tips for Balancing Work and Life

Achieving a work-life balance is crucial for both your career and overall well-being. Here are some strategies to help you find that balance:

• Understand that it won't always be perfect.
• Prioritize what matters most to you.
• Commit to a lifestyle that allows for balance.
• Manage your time effectively.
• Reduce stress by achieving a better balance.

Real Estate in Derby

Derby, KS, has a wide range of property listings from various real estate agencies. The median home price in the area is $317,314.

Latest Trends in Derby, KS Real Estate Market

As of August 2023, home prices in Derby have decreased by 4.0% compared to the previous year, with a median selling price of $250,000.

Types of Properties in Derby, KS

Derby offers a variety of property types, including houses, townhomes, multi-family units, lots/land, apartments, and manufactured homes.

Best Neighborhoods in Derby, KS

The most sought-after neighborhoods are generally in the northeast part of the city, while more budget-friendly options are available in the southwest.

Tips for House Hunters in Derby

Make sure you're financially prepared and get mortgage pre-approval before starting your property search.

What to Look for During Home Inspections in Derby, KS

During home inspections, it's crucial to review all building plans and ensure they comply with city codes and policies.

Financial and Professional Advice for Derby Homebuyers

If you’re ready to talk to a mortgage professional, Motto Mortgage is our affiliated and preferred lender. They can help you find out if you pre-qualify for a loan, what your loan options are, and can even guide you through the steps needed for credit repair where necessary. 

Utility Services in Derby

Utilities in Derby include water services managed by the Public Works Water Division and other essentials like electricity and gas.

Essential City Services in Derby

Derby provides a range of vital city services, including ADA administration, animal control, building inspections, legal services, code enforcement, communications, economic development, emergency management, fire and rescue, floodplain management, HR, IT, parks, planning and engineering, police, public works, senior services, stormwater management, street management, trash and recycling, and water management.

Is Derby a Great Place To Live?

Hey there Derby movers, Thank you for taking the time to explore our comprehensive guide to Derby, Kansas. We hope it's been as enlightening for you as it was for us to compile. Whether you're planning to move here or just stopping by, Derby offers a rich, fulfilling experience for everyone. With its affordable living, excellent schools, and vibrant community life, it's no wonder Derby is a place many are proud to call home. So why not make it yours? Start to plan your visit now to Derby, Kansas.