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Valley Center

city

Valley Center, Kansas, is a city located in Sedgwick County and is considered a suburb of Wichita. As of 2020, the city's population was 7,340, but current estimates place it closer to 8,590. Valley Center offers a blend of small-town charm and access to the amenities of a larger city, making it an attractive place for families and young professionals. The city's economy is diverse, with major employment sectors including technology, healthcare, retail, and education. The median household income is approximately $77,020, and the poverty rate is relatively low. Valley Center is served by the Valley Center Unified School District (USD 262), which is a significant employer and provides education to students from Valley Center, Park City, Kechi, and Wichita. Valley Center was incorporated in 1885 and named for its location in the valley of the Arkansas River. The city has a rich history tied to the expansion of the railroad and has maintained a strong sense of community throughout its development. Today, Valley Center offers a mix of parks, community events, and local businesses, contributing to a high quality of life for its residents.

Valley Center, Kansas

Overview
Classification
City
FIPS Code
20-73250
Country
United States
County
Sedgwick
Geography
Region
Great Plains
Elevation
1,345 ft
Total Area
7.11 sq mi
Land Area
7.1 sq mi
Water Area
0.004 sq mi
Latitude
37.829719
Longitude
-97.369341
Climate
Continental climate with hot summers, cold winters, and moderate rainfall
Notable Features
Arkansas River Valley
Neighboring Areas
Park City · Wichita · Kechi
Demographics
Population (2020)
7,340
Est. Population (2024)
8,590
Median Age
33.8
Median Income
$77,020
Poverty Rate
3.65%
Owner-Occupied
72.4%
Racial & Ethnic Composition
The racial makeup of the city is 86.9% White, 6.1% Hispanic, 4.6% Two or More Races, 1.21% Asian, 0.59% Black or African American, 0.28% Native American, and 0.27% Other Race.
Governance
Government Type
Mayor-Council
Governing Body
City Council
Body Size
8 members
School District
Valley Center USD 262
Municipal Services
Police · Fire · Public Works · Parks & Public Buildings · Recreation
Economy
Unemployment Rate
5.6%
Economic Profile
Residential/suburban · Commercial
Employment Sectors
None found
Major Employers
None found
Education
Schools
7
Students
3,200
Teachers
600
Student-Teacher Ratio
14:1
School Districts
Valley Center USD 262
Infrastructure
Transportation
Interstate 135 · U.S. Route 81 · K-15
Utilities
Municipal water · Fiber/broadband
Major Facilities
None found
Recreation
Outdoor Access
Yes
Major Recreation Areas
Lions Park
Parks & Trails
Lions Park · Valley Center Recreation Commission
History
Founded
1870s
Incorporated
1885
Named After
Valley of the Arkansas River
Historical Significance
Valley Center's history is tied to the expansion of the railroad and its location in the Arkansas River valley, contributing to its development as a center for the surrounding agricultural area.
Key Events
Incorporated on September 29, 1885 · Railroad expansion brought settlers · Barton Solvents chemical plant explosion in 2007