New Salem, Wichita,KS

If you’re considering a move to the southeast side of Wichita, KS, New Salem is a charming neighborhood that offers a welcoming community vibe with plenty of conveniences nearby. This area is well-loved for its peaceful residential streets lined with mature trees, making it a great spot for families and individuals seeking a quieter lifestyle without sacrificing access to city amenities. One of the standout attractions in New Salem is the scenic Chisholm Creek Park, which provides walking trails, playgrounds, and green spaces perfect for weekend picnics or evening strolls. Residents also enjoy being close to local shops and eateries that add a cozy, small-town feel to the neighborhood.

New Salem is just a short drive from Downtown Wichita, making it an ideal location for those who want to enjoy the bustle of city life while retreating to a more relaxed home environment. Getting to the heart of downtown generally takes about 15 minutes, which means easy commutes for work, dining, or catching a game at Intrust Bank Arena. The neighborhood’s proximity to major highways also makes travel convenient, whether you’re heading to other parts of Wichita or exploring the greater Kansas area. This balance of accessibility and tranquility is one of the reasons New Salem continues to attract new residents.

Aside from the natural beauty and convenient location, New Salem offers a strong sense of community with local events and activities that bring neighbors together. The nearby New Salem Elementary School is highly rated and a draw for families with young children. Additionally, residents have access to several recreational facilities and community centers in the southeast part of the city, which provide everything from fitness classes to youth sports leagues. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, quality education options, or a welcoming neighborhood atmosphere, New Salem in Wichita has a lot to offer for anyone making a move to the area.

About 34% of the New Salem population aged 16 and older are married, which is notably lower than average. This could suggest a community with a younger, more transient population—perhaps made up of students, professionals, or renters. It may also reflect a neighborhood that attracts singles or couples without children, contributing to a more independent, urban lifestyle.

With only 32% of people over 16 having children, you can expect an easygoing environment that tends to attract residents seeking a quieter lifestyle. The atmosphere here leans more toward adult-oriented living. Without the constant rhythm of school schedules or kid-centered events, the community maintains a slower, more relaxed pace. This makes it especially appealing to singles, couples, and empty nesters who appreciate tranquil streets, and recreation on their own terms.

New Salem demographics offer valuable insights into the character and lifestyle of the neighborhood, helping you understand who lives there and what daily life might feel like. Home to only about 510 residents, New Salem is notably smaller than many other Wichita neighborhoods, creating a more peaceful and community-oriented atmosphere. Its lower population can translate to quieter streets, a more relaxed pace of life, and easier access to local amenities — all without sacrificing the vibrant urban lifestyle the city is known for.

New Salem has a population density of 2,249, which strikes a balanced feel when compared to other Wichita neighborhoods. The area offers just the right mix of activity and breathing room, creating a community that’s lively yet comfortable, with easy access to amenities and everyday conveniences.

With a lower-than-average age of 31, you're likely to find a noticeably youthful energy and vibrant atmosphere. This younger population brings a dynamic mix of activity, innovation, and community involvement, shaping a neighborhood that feels lively, forward-thinking, and full of opportunity — making it an especially appealing choice for younger adults looking for an active and engaging community.

The New Salem crime map offers a clear, data-driven look at how crime is distributed throughout the neighborhood, using block group data to highlight both safer areas and potential hot spots. The color-coded map makes it easy to see where crime is more concentrated and where it occurs less frequently, helping residents and prospective buyers better understand local safety patterns. It’s important to note that darker or red zones on the map don’t necessarily mean those areas are unsafe — locations near busy transit hubs, shopping districts, or popular attractions often show higher activity simply due to larger crowds and increased foot traffic.

Housing trends offer valuable insight into the accessibility and character of a neighborhood. In New Salem, the median home price is $104,120, which is less than many surrounding areas. This affordability makes it an attractive option for first-time buyers, young families, or anyone looking to enter the housing market without a significant financial barrier. Looking at appreciation rates and past market trends in New Salem can offer valuable insight into the neighborhood’s investment potential. Understanding how home values have changed over time helps buyers gauge future growth, assess long-term stability, and make more informed real estate decisions.

The median rent is around $847, which is on par with many comparable neighborhoods. This balanced pricing offers a mix of affordability and value, making it a practical choice for a wide range of renters.

Education is a key factor in understanding the character and opportunities within a community like New Salem. School ratings here reflect important indicators such as academic performance, graduation outcomes, and standardized testing, while NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) scores offer a valuable national comparison to gauge how local schools measure up. Looking at the overall education level of residents in New Salem can also provide meaningful insight into the neighborhood’s focus on learning and long-term growth, helping families choose a community that aligns with their educational goals.