$254,501Average Value$181Average Price per Sq Ft53Homes For Sale
An outlaw town with an unruly history is an industry leader
The frontier days of Hays City, as locals call it, were filled with gun smoke, cowboys and outlaws. Established as a Union Pacific railroad stop in 1867 and located about 180 miles northwest of Wichita, Hays grew quickly as homesteaders rushed to claim land in western Kansas and Colorado. The need to protect railroad workers, create peace between rival businesses and manage the fallout from violent conflicts with Native Americans pushed the government to build an Army fort. The town grew as people decided to stay nearby out of fear of future confrontations. But staying in Hays didn’t guarantee peaceful living. Lawlessness within its population was rampant, and Wild Bill Hickock was made Sheriff to bring order, though controversy surrounds his appointment and his service. A statue of him stands near downtown.
Today, history seekers visit former saloons and Boot Hill Cemetery, where statues commemorate outlaws buried “with their boots on,” a nod to the lack of procedure in the young frontier town. With a current population of about 22,000 people, Hays is known as the largest city in northwest Kansas and promotes a small-town vibe with thriving new industries and big amenities.
Hays was established as a Union Pacific railroad stop in 1867.
A statue of Wild Bill Hickock is located in downtown Hays.
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Healthcare, education and telecommunications are leading industries
Major employers include Hays Medical Center and Fort Hays State University, though tourism revolving around Wild West history also is an important source of jobs.. In 2024, the Hays MicroFactory opened along Commerce Parkway with 30,000 square feet for startups, funded by local foundations interested in paving the way for manufacturers to get their starts.
Hays Medical Center is one of the city's largest employers.
Residents may attend Fort Hays State University to obtain a college education.
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Ranch-style homes dominate the housing scene
“Although business growth seems somewhat stable, we’re seeing a significant construction boom of new homes right now,” says Patty Stull, a Realtor with Coldwell Banker for more than 20 years. “That demand probably comes from job creation at Hays Med Center and the university. Plus, smaller new businesses are moving into the city, which also drives housing demand.” The area's median price for a home is $228,000, lower than the national median but close to what buyers are willing to pay, says Stull. “If these new homes are priced right, they will get a lot of attention,” she says. “The sweet spot for many buyers is around $250,000." Recent sales range from about $60,000 for one- and two-bedroom cottages to about $300,000 for midcentury ranch-style homes.
Homes in Hays are selling below the national average.
Ranch-styled dwellings make up most of the Hays housing market.
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Sports, history and preservation are the focus of city parks
Hays' municipally run parks are scattered around the city, including an aquatic center, a regulation golf course, a disc golf course, sites focused on adult and youth sports and one -- Frontier Historic Park -- with a bison preserve established in the 1920s. The Sternberg Museum of Natural History preserves animal and plant examples from the history of the Great Plains. Also, for portions of the original Fort Hays can be toured at a state historical site. Union Pacific Plaza in the center of the city is home to the Hickok statue -- erected in 1989 -- and a large pavilion. The railroad runs straight through the plaza.
Enjoy a round of golf at Fort Hays Municipal Golf Course.
Visit the bison preserve at Historic Frontier Park in Hays.
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The city is home to Fort Hays State University
Hays Unified School District 489 is graded B by Niche and manages six public schools. In 2020 the district opened the new Early Childhood Center on 13th Street. Fort Hays State University was founded in 1902 to train teachers. Today, the university is the largest in western Kansas.
Fort Hays State University was founded in 1902 to train teachers.
Hays Middle School is part of the Hays Unified School District 489.
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Downtown Hays has a little bit of everything locals want
The brick-paved streets of Downtown Hays are a retail and small business destination for north Kansans. Retailers and restaurants are located in buildings that once housed banks, brothels and betting parlors. The Beach/Schmidt Performing Arts Center on the campus of Fort Hays State University hosts concerts, basketball games and conventions. Year-round farmer's markets, festivals, parades and art walks bring visitors to town and drive traffic to over 100 small businesses.
Downtown Hays has a wide variety of shops and retail options to enjoy.
Grab some coffee in Hays at Breath Coffee House.
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Getting around Hays
Ellis County residents are car-dependent for daily errands and work commutes. Interstate 70 runs through Hays in an east-west direction. U.S. Route 183 runs north-south from the Oklahoma border to the Nebraska border. ACCESS transportation provides limited bus service in Ellis County. Hays Regional Airport is 3 miles south of the city and offers direct flights to Denver. For other destinations, the next closest commercial airport is Salina Regional Airport, 100 miles east.
Low risk of flooding despite historic events
Floods and tornadoes are a moderate risk, but both devastated the city in 1951 and 1964, respectively. According to FBI data, Hays’ reported rates of violent and property crimes have been mostly lower than the national and state average since 2020. However, periodic spikes have occurred.
Written By
Sarah Albiston
Photography Contributed By
Zach Manwell
Video By
Patrick Johnson
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Sharrah Marshall,
an experienced agent in this area.
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On average, homes in Hays, KS sell after 96 days on the market compared to the national average of 58 days. The median sale price for homes in Hays, KS over the last 12 months is $228,500, up 4% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Welcome to 2217 Clay Drive! This beautiful 4 bedroom, 3 bathroom property is perfect for a family looking for a spacious home with plenty of outdoor space for the kids to run around! This home is perfect for hosting parties with a bar in the basement and plenty of space for entertaining! Call Jed Simpson at 785-731-5365 or Carter Normandin at 785-639-1421 if you are interested in seeing this
Spacious, affordable, and full of charm - this home offers the space families need at a price that's hard to find! This 5 bed, 3 bath, is nestled on a quiet street in a wonderful neighborhood. Large windows fill the home with beautiful natural light, making every room feel warm and inviting. If you've been searching for a home that offers room to grow without sacrificing affordability, this is
Beautiful newer ranch style home located in northwest Hays, offering modern style and an open-concept layout. The main floor seamlessly connects the kitchen, dining, and living areas- perfect for both everyday living and entertaining. You'll love the spacious master suite complete with a private en suite bath, designed for comfort and convenience. The basement adds even more living space,
8Welcome to this charming 4-bedroom, 2-bath home in a sought-after neighborhood close to the hospital and schools. Vaulted ceilings add an open, welcoming feel, while the oversized detached heated garage with running water offers incredible versatility. The basement features a great bar space—perfect for hosting family and friends. Call Sharrah 785.639.3631 with Platinum Group for your showing
Private Oasis Designed for Entertaining. This 5-bedroom, 3-bath home blends comfort and style with a layout built for gathering. Inside offers flexible living space, while the outdoor area truly shines—creating a spa-like escape with a salt water pool, hot tub, and tranquil setting that feels like your own private resort. Perfect for both relaxing evenings and hosting guests. Schedule your
Spacious 5-bedroom, 4-bath two-story Colonial home located along Hole #6 of Smoky Hill Country Club, offering beautiful golf course views and a prime location. This home features a classic brick exterior and a layout designed for comfort and functionality. Inside, you’ll find a large primary bedroom and bathroom, with the flexibility to have a primary suite either on the main floor or upstairs,
Excellent income-producing opportunity just minutes from the hospital! This 4-plex features four spacious 2-bedroom, 1-bath units, each equipped with in-unit washer and dryer hookups, making them highly attractive to tenants. Off-street parking adds additional convenience for residents and guests. Whether you’re looking for stable long-term tenants, mid-term housing for traveling professionals,
Discover the perfect site for your new development, located with easy access to I-70 and nearby shopping. This location offers the best of both worlds – a bustling retail scene nearby and effortless access to major highways. Don’t miss out on this highly sought-after prime location for your next development project, where convenience meets opportunity. Call Sharrah 785.639.3631 with Platinum
3D Virtual Tour: Beautiful home in a highly desirable Hays location, set on a spacious 0.64-acre lot surrounded by mature trees that provide shade, privacy, and a peaceful setting. With nearly 3,000 sq ft, this 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath home offers a functional layout designed for both everyday living and entertaining. The kitchen offers ample workspace and storage, highlighted by a large pantry,
Welcome to 2217 Clay Drive! This beautiful 4 bedroom, 3 bathroom property is perfect for a family looking for a spacious home with plenty of outdoor space for the kids to run around! This home is perfect for hosting parties with a bar in the basement and plenty of space for entertaining! Call Jed Simpson at 785-731-5365 or Carter Normandin at 785-639-1421 if you are interested in seeing this
Now is your chance to own a home on desirable Fairway Dr. with massive square footage priced nearly $70,000 below county appraised value! A 2004 addition dramatically expanded the main floor living space, adding a second living room, spacious utility room, and an additional primary suite complete with an oversized walk-in closet and private bath. The partially finished basement offers another
Prepare to be captivated by this absolutely immaculate, custom-built masterpiece where no detail has been overlooked. Situated on a sprawling, near half-acre lot in a prime Hays location, this executive residence defines quality and luxury living. This home offers incredible space and flexibility with 6 generously sized bedrooms and 5 bathrooms. Enjoy custom comfort with a thermostat in every
Welcome to this spacious and move-in ready 5 bedroom, 3 bath home with a large non-conforming room offering endless possibilities for a home office, gym, or guest space. Recently refreshed with all new flooring throughout and fresh interior paint, this home feels clean and updated. The finished basement features a bar area, perfect for entertaining. Enjoy the convenience of a 3-car garage and
Spacious, affordable, and full of charm - this home offers the space families need at a price that's hard to find! This 5 bed, 3 bath, is nestled on a quiet street in a wonderful neighborhood. Large windows fill the home with beautiful natural light, making every room feel warm and inviting. If you've been searching for a home that offers room to grow without sacrificing affordability, this is
Conveniently located close to shopping, the library, dining, and entertainment, this completely updated 1-bedroom, 1-bathroom home offers comfortable one-level living with a cozy, functional layout. Outside, you’ll find a fenced backyard and detached garage. With its manageable size, updates, and central location, this home offers great potential as an investment property or starter home. Contact
TWO BLOCKS FROM CAMPUS!Upstairs Apartment3 Bedroom / 2 BathroomWasher and DryerALL BILLS PAIDS (expect internet)Lawn care taken care of by landlordsOff Street Parking
This home is expected to be ready soon! Get ahead and secure it early!All home tour showings will be conducted at the community office located at 1010 Reservation Road, Hays, KS, 67601.Welcome to your dream home in the heart of Hays. Built in 2020, this home features 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms — and it’s almost ready for you!Pre-leasing is now open — submit your
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