The world’s largest salt shaker towers proudly at the center of Lyons, commemorating the city’s prominent role in the salt mining industry. Salt production is still the leading employer, but the area hasn’t seen much growth beyond its mining town roots. With around 3,500 residents, Lyons is known for its slow pace of life, low cost of living and peaceful farmland setting. The closest larger city is Hutchinson, or “Hutch” as the locals call it, 30 miles south. According to city clerk Bailey Sayler, Lyons is a place where kids ride around on bikes and play outside. “Everybody still feels really safe in this community,” Sayler says. “I wouldn’t let my child go walking around Hutch or Wichita, but here it's still very small-town.” The city’s CAP Index Crime Score is 2 out of 10, lower than the national average of 4.
Natural gas processing is an important part of Lyons’ local economy.
Lyons Municipal Pool sits right next to Lyons Public Golf Course.
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Bungalows and ranch-style homes on vintage streets
Although there is some modern construction, the majority of homes in Lyons were built from the 1890s to the 1970s. One-story bungalows and ranch-style homes are common, often with back-alley access and detached garages. Near the center of town, some brick streets are reminiscent of Lyons’ historic roots. Outside of city limits, it’s possible to find properties with several acres.
Although investment properties can sell for under $75,000, smaller move-in-ready residences go for $75,000 to $200,000. From $200,000 to $325,000, homes tend to be larger with more modern renovations. According to Shelley Peverley, a Realtor with Timber Oaks Realty and local to the area, houses are moving off the market more slowly than she’s seen in the last 10 years. “It’s hard to sell right now in Lyons,” she says.
Ranch-style homes in Lyons are a great option for buyers looking for single-story living.
Residents of Lyons often enjoy the spring and summer days on their front porches.
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Career-focused pathways and football games at the high school
Lyons Park Elementary School serves prekindergarten through second grade and gets a B grade from Niche. Lyons Central Elementary is for third through fifth grades and is rated C-plus. Lyons Middle gets a B, and Lyons High receives a B-minus. The high school offers career-focused pathways, including agriculture, biochemistry and graphic design. “The schools are awesome here,” Sayler says. “On Friday nights when football comes around, it is like a community event — they have fireworks.”
Lyons High School is located in the same facility as Lyons High School.
After elementary, students may attend Lyons Middle School.
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From lazy rivers to livestock shows, Lyons stays busy
Lyons Municipal Pool is a center of activity during hot Kansas summers, featuring a waterslide and lazy river. Golfers can play at the nine-hole Lyons Public Golf Course, and Little Leagues practice at local ball fields.
Lyons is also home to the Celebration Centre & Bar K Arena, a multiuse facility for events ranging from rodeos to weddings. The football-sized horse arena is used for 4-H animal shows during the annual Rice County Fair.
Lyons Municipal Pool features a colorful waterslide for local kids to enjoy.
Everyone in the community can enjoy a round of golf at Lyons Public Golf Course.
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Courthouse Square has local restaurants and live music
The central square around the towering Rice County Courthouse includes a local museum, public library and a few restaurants. County Seat Bar & Grill is a favorite for homestyle dishes like cheeseburgers or blackened catfish, and Brew 56 is a coffee shop with occasional community events. One of the most recent additions is The Lumberyard on 56, a brewery with an outdoor live music stage. “They have different artists come in and perform on Saturday nights, and some food trucks come in and set up along the way,” Peverley says. “Those are really fun, and they get really busy.”
A bit farther down Main Street, locals can shop at Dollar General, Ace Hardware and White’s Foodliner, the only grocery store in town.
A wide variety of businesses and services surround Lyons’ Courtyard Square.
The Rice County Courthouse is a distinguished landmark in Lyons’ Courtyard Square.
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Standout fireworks and a growing Cinco de Mayo festival
One of Lyons’ headline events is Boomfest, a Fourth of July celebration with a fireworks show. “I don’t think I’ve seen a better fireworks show,” Sayler says. “And that says a lot because I come from Texas, where these things are a big deal.” The annual Fair on the Square brings in a variety of art vendors, and in 2025, the city started a new tradition — a Cinco de Mayo festival. The event included a parade, heritage dancers and live bands, and the first-year turnout was in the thousands. “The parade was so long, and it was just very well done and very well put together,” Sayler says. “I wouldn’t be surprised if that ends up being our number one thing.”
Hutchinson and Wichita offer shopping and an airport
Lyons is located at the intersection of U.S. Route 56 and state Route 14. Hutchinson is about 30 miles away and is the go-to spot for big-box shopping like Walmart. Hutch is also home to the Hutchinson Regional Medical Center, which is significantly larger than Rice Community Hospital in Lyons. Wichita is just under 80 miles away, with the closest airport, Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport.
Shelters for Tornado Alley storm risks
According to First Street, the city has a minor wind risk. However, Lyons is located in Tornado Alley, and Rice County has seen several tornadoes. Many homes in Lyons were built with basements or storm shelters, and several local churches open their basements to the public if needed.
Written By
Catherine Lashley
Photography Contributed By
Joan Wall
Video By
Jacob McAllister
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Kayla Phillips,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Lyons, KS sell after 55 days on the market compared to the national average of 54 days. The median sale price for homes in Lyons, KS over the last 12 months is $150,000, up 20% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
This one is about potential! Solid bones, a smart layout, and the opportunity to build real equity with cosmetic updates, make this Lyons home a compelling option for buyers who know what they’re looking at. The two-bedroom, one-bath floor plan is efficient and functional, with strong reason to believe original wood floors are hiding beneath the carpet (and yes, that’s as exciting as it sounds!).
Charming split level 4-bedroom, 2-bath home located in the desirable area of Lyons, KS! This inviting property features updated windows, plumbing, AC, hot water heater, and guttering with leaf guards. On the main floor you will find a nice galley kitchen, dining and living room. Enjoy the convenience of an attached garage and the privacy of a fully fenced backyard, and a nice sized deck for
Cute little house on the market waiting just for you! This home has 1 bedroom upstairs and 2 bonus rooms in the basement. Also in the basement is a laundry area and a possible play area. Upstairs has a nice living room and a large kitchen with room for dining. Main bathroom is on the main floor. There is a detached 1 car garage as well. Metal roof has recently been added and newer vinyl windows.
Motivated seller!!! Don't miss this opportunity to own a beautiful one-level ranch-style home featuring three bedrooms, two full bathrooms. This property includes an oversized one-car attached garage, a huge fenced backyard for your entertaining or relaxing, and is located in a quiet, desirable neighborhood. Convenient layout with easy single-level living makes this home a must see! Put your TLC
This brick ranch home offers the perfect blend of space, comfort, and potential! With 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, and a large basement, there’s room for everyone! The main floor features a large living room, a unique sunk-in living room with a cozy fireplace, convenient laundry, and the kitchen. The basement expands your options with an additional living area, utility room, and 2 bonus rooms
Take a look at this charming cottage. Completely redone, right down to the landscaping. Nice covered front porch for enjoying your morning coffee. Step through the front door and find refinished hardwood floors throughout. There is a nice sized living room, 3 bedrooms and 1 full bath, a kitchen that is nice and bright inviting you in to prepare a meal, and the convenience of a main floor laundry
Come see this updated home by Park School Elementary and Workman Park. Walking distance to the square. This house has 5 bedrooms and 3.5 baths! Completely finished basement with a beautiful master. New Roof, Driveway and garage door in 2024, A.C. and Heating system updated in 2021. Sellers just painted and installed new carpet! New Beautiful covered cement porch with vinyl decking is a great way
One of my favorite homes in Lyons, Ks. This house sits on the inside curve of Tobias Drive. It is a single level home meaning limited steps. Cozy living room with a gas log fireplace, nice sized windows and nice hardwood floors. There is a super comfortable den with a wood burning fireplace. The 1 car garage entry is located here along with the 1/2 bath, and separate laundry room. Kitchen is of
Beautiful brick home on the edge of Lyons with tons of updates!!! The meticulously manicured yard and quaint porch draw you right into your new home in the quiet town of Lyons, KS! As you walk through the front door the large living room space with engineered hardwood floors, new recessed lighting and custom built banister with shelving immediately create a welcoming atmosphere! The gorgeous
Back on the market at no fault to the seller! Ready to fall in love with your dream home? This stunning renovation has transformed an old gem into a modern masterpiece! From the brand-new plumbing, HVAC and electrical inside and out to the gorgeous vinyl flooring, every inch has been thoughtfully updated. Imagine cooking in a bright kitchen with black granite countertops, a farmhouse sink, and
Beautiful brick home on a corner lot!!! With FOUR bedrooms, two bathrooms, an attached two car garage and a fenced in back yard this home is a MUST SEE! As you walk up to the covered porch the wonderful brick work and great craftsmanship are in full display with a welcoming entry! Inside the front door the new vinyl flooring, great natural lighting and updated lighting create a clean and
Here is your opportunity to own this cute 1.5 Story bungalow on a corner lot located in central Lyons. This home has an open floor plan with the living room, dining room and kitchen. Two bedrooms with one bathroom on the main floor. The largest bedroom is on the second floor and includes a nice sitting area, full bathroom, two closets and a private balcony. In the basement is a non-conforming
Nice brick 2 bedroom, 1 bathroom duplex home in a well-established neighborhood close to the golf course, public swimming pool, local park, fitness center, ball diamonds, and hospital. Detached single car garage with a large backyard
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