Is Parsons Safe, Pros and cons of living in Parsons
Parsons, Kansas, offers a unique blend of small-town charm and accessible amenities, making it a noteworthy consideration for those seeking a change of pace. Nestled in the southeastern part of the state, this community provides a more relaxed lifestyle compared to bustling metropolises. Its location in Labette County positions it within a region rich in history and natural beauty.
The city’s infrastructure supports a comfortable living environment, with essential services and local businesses catering to residents’ needs. Parsons is part of a broader regional economy, benefiting from its proximity to larger employment centers while maintaining its distinct community identity. This balance allows for both a grounded local experience and opportunities for broader engagement.
Is it Safe to Live in Parsons?
Parsons, Kansas, faces challenges regarding its crime rates. The city experiences a crime rate that is significantly higher than the national average. Your chance of becoming a victim of either violent or property crime in Parsons is approximately one in 24 (AreaVibes). This statistic is concerning when compared to national figures, indicating a need for heightened awareness among residents and visitors.
Specifically, violent crimes in Parsons are notably elevated. The chance of becoming a victim of a violent crime is one in 81 (AreaVibes). This rate is considerably higher than both the state and national averages, with some analyses suggesting Parsons has one of the higher murder rates in the nation when compared to cities of all sizes (NeighborhoodScout). Property crime also presents a significant concern, with a rate of 31 per one thousand population (NeighborhoodScout).
Housing Costs in Parsons
The housing market in Parsons, Kansas, presents a relatively affordable option for prospective homeowners and renters. The median home value in Parsons is approximately $78,523, a figure that has seen a slight decrease of 2.5% over the past year (Zillow). This makes homeownership more attainable compared to many other areas across the country.
Rental prices in Parsons are also notably lower than the national average. The average rent in Parsons, KS, is $925 per month, which is 53.75% lower than the national average (Zillow). This affordability extends to various apartment sizes, with two-bedroom apartments averaging $925 per month and three-bedroom apartments averaging $850 per month (Zillow).
Job Market and Economy in Parsons
Parsons, Kansas, has an unemployment rate of 3.30% as of the latest data, which is lower than the previous month and the previous year, and also lower than the long-term average for the area (YCharts). This indicates a relatively stable job market for the city. Major employers in the Parsons area contribute to this economic stability, though specific company names and their employee numbers can fluctuate.
The average salary in Parsons, Kansas, can vary significantly by industry and role. For instance, Parsons Corporation employees have an average salary of $105,650 annually, with salaries ranging from $48,000 to $244,000 (Payscale). This figure is specific to Parsons Corporation and may not reflect the broader average salary across all industries in Parsons.
Climate in Parsons
Parsons, Kansas, experiences a climate typical of the Midwestern United States, characterized by distinct seasons. Summers are generally warm to hot, with average high temperatures reaching into the upper 80s Fahrenheit. Winters are cold, with average high temperatures in the low to mid-40s Fahrenheit and occasional drops below freezing.
The city receives a moderate amount of rainfall throughout the year, distributed relatively evenly across seasons, though thunderstorms are common during the spring and summer months. Snowfall is typical during the winter, contributing to the cold-season conditions. The climate is generally considered humid subtropical, with hot summers and cool to cold winters.
Education in Parsons
The educational landscape in Parsons, Kansas, is primarily served by the Parsons Unified School District. This district provides educational services for students from pre-kindergarten through 12th grade. The district has a student-teacher ratio of 13 to 1, with 31% of students proficient in math and 34% proficient in reading, according to state test scores (Niche).
Parsons Unified School District generally receives a “B minus” overall Niche grade, with specific strengths noted in diversity (A minus) and teachers (B). The district is ranked among the most diverse school districts in Kansas. Individual schools within the district, such as Garfield School and Lincoln School, also receive positive ratings.
Demographics of Parsons
Parsons, Kansas, has a population of approximately 9,430 residents as of the latest data. The demographic makeup is predominantly White (Non-Hispanic), accounting for about 77.1k people, which is significantly higher than other racial or ethnic groups in the city (Data USA). Other reported ethnic groups include Two Races Excluding Other, & Three or More Races (Non-Hispanic) and Black or African American (Non-Hispanic).
The citizenship rate in Parsons is very high, with 99.4% of residents being U.S. citizens (Data USA). The foreign-born population is quite small, representing less than 1% of the total population. The median age in Parsons is 43.4 years (Data Commons).