Is McPherson Safe, Pros and cons of living in McPherson
McPherson, Kansas, offers a blend of small-town charm and practical amenities, making it a consideration for those seeking a community with a friendly atmosphere and convenient access to larger cities. The city provides a cost of living that is generally lower than the national average, which can be appealing for budget-conscious individuals and families. Its location in central Kansas also offers a glimpse into the heartland of America, with a climate that experiences distinct seasons.
The community is characterized by a strong sense of local identity, with a history rooted in agriculture and industry. McPherson is home to a population that values community engagement and a slower pace of life, while still being within reasonable driving distance of Wichita, a larger metropolitan area that offers more extensive cultural and economic opportunities. This balance allows residents to enjoy the benefits of a close-knit town without feeling entirely isolated.
Is it Safe to Live in McPherson?
Crime Rates
McPherson demonstrates a crime rate that is lower than the national average, contributing to its reputation as a relatively safe place to live. Violent crime rates in McPherson are approximately 4.3% below the national average, and property crime rates are also significantly lower, at about 33.4% below the national average (as reported by FBI crime data). This suggests a lower likelihood of experiencing property-related offenses compared to many other U.S. cities.
While the overall crime statistics are favorable, it is important to note that crime can vary by neighborhood within the city. The chance of becoming a victim of violent crime in McPherson is about 1 in 828, and the chance of becoming a victim of property crime is about 1 in 72 (as reported by NeighborhoodScout). The McPherson Police Department reported 18 violent crimes and 200 property crimes in 2024, indicating a slight increase in property crimes from the previous year (as reported by Ad Astra Radio).
Public Safety and Law Enforcement
The McPherson Police Department is committed to serving and protecting the community, responding to a significant number of calls for service each year. In 2024, the department handled 13,861 calls for service, an increase from the prior year (as reported by Ad Astra Radio). This level of activity reflects the department’s engagement in maintaining public order and safety.
Officers in McPherson generated 1,898 reports in 2024, wrote 1,488 traffic citations, and made 408 arrests (as reported by Ad Astra Radio). These figures highlight the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to address various incidents and enforce local ordinances, aiming to ensure a secure environment for residents.
Cost of Living in McPherson
Housing Costs
The housing market in McPherson presents an attractive option for potential residents, with costs that are generally more affordable than the national average. The median home value in McPherson is approximately $217,268, which has seen an increase of 3.1% over the past year (as reported by Zillow). This indicates a stable and slightly appreciating housing market.
For renters, the average rent in McPherson is around $1,225 per month (as reported by Zillow). This is substantially lower than the national average rent of $1,910 per month, making McPherson a more budget-friendly option for those who prefer to rent (as reported by Zillow).
Everyday Expenses
Beyond housing, McPherson offers a cost of living that is generally lower than both the national and state averages. Overall living costs in McPherson are about 8% lower than the U.S. national average and 41% lower than Kansas’s state average (as reported by Salary.com). This includes expenses such as food, transportation, and utilities.
Specifically, food expenses in McPherson are about 25.1% below the national average, and energy, transportation, and healthcare costs are approximately 21.0% lower (as reported by Salary.com). These savings on daily necessities contribute significantly to the overall affordability of residing in McPherson.
Job Market and Economy
Major Employers
McPherson boasts a diverse industrial base with a significant number of companies operating within its limits. Key employers in the area include Viega, a global manufacturer of plumbing systems with a large facility in McPherson, and Farmers Alliance, a prominent property and casualty insurer (as reported by Go McPherson). Other notable companies contributing to the local economy include Pfizer, CHS, and Johns-Manville (as reported by Greater Wichita Partnership).
The city is recognized as one of the nation’s most industrialized communities, with over 50 companies spanning at least a dozen industries (as reported by Go McPherson). This robust industrial presence provides a variety of employment opportunities for residents across different sectors.
Unemployment and Salaries
The unemployment rate in McPherson County was 3.40% as of January 2026, which is slightly higher than the long-term average of 3.18% (as reported by YCharts). This figure indicates a generally stable job market, though it has seen a modest increase recently.
The median wage in McPherson is approximately $47,000 per year, with the 25th percentile earning around $34,100 and the 75th percentile earning about $62,000 (as reported by ZipRecruiter). The average salary for a laborer in McPherson is $19.85 per hour (as reported by Indeed).
Climate and Environment
Temperatures and Seasons
McPherson experiences a climate with distinct seasons, typical of the continental United States. Summers are generally hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 82°F from June through September (as reported by Weather Spark). July is typically the hottest month, with average high temperatures around 92°F and lows of 70°F.
Winters are cold, snowy, windy, and partly cloudy. The cold season typically runs from late November to late February, with average daily high temperatures below 51°F. January is the coldest month, with average lows around 22°F and highs of 42°F (as reported by Weather Spark).
Precipitation and Sunshine
The city experiences a noticeable variation in precipitation throughout the year. The wetter season spans from April to September, with a greater than 23% chance of a wet day, and June typically sees the most wet days (as reported by Weather Spark). Conversely, the drier season lasts from September to April, with January having the fewest wet days.
McPherson also sees significant seasonal variation in cloud cover. The clearest part of the year is from June to November, with July being the clearest month. The cloudier period extends from November to June, with February being the cloudiest month (as reported by Weather Spark).
Education and Demographics
School Ratings
McPherson’s public school system, McPherson Unified School District, receives a B- overall rating (as reported by Niche). The district serves students from PK through 12th grade and has a student-teacher ratio of 12 to 1 (as reported by Niche). State test scores indicate that about 28% of students are proficient in math and 32% in reading.
McPherson High School specifically holds a C+ overall Niche grade, with 692 students in grades 9-12 and a student-teacher ratio of 13 to 1 (as reported by Niche). While the high school facility is noted as being outdated, the district is recognized for its teachers and athletic programs (as reported by Niche).
Population and Diversity
McPherson is home to a population of approximately 14,000 residents, with a slight majority being female. The median age in McPherson is around 35 years old, with a balanced distribution across age groups, from children to seniors (as reported by Point2Homes). The population is predominantly White, with smaller percentages identifying as Hispanic, Black, Asian, or multiracial (as reported by Point2Homes and Census Dots).
The city is largely comprised of U.S. citizens, with a high homeownership rate of around 75.5% (as reported by Data USA). The community is characterized by its close-knit nature and a significant portion of residents being born in the United States.