Winfield is a small city of more than 11,700, serving as the county seat of Cowley County. It was incorporated in the late 1800s and was named for Rev. Winfield Scott after he built a church in the city and was promised naming rights. He started First Baptist Church in 1870, which continues its ministry today, along with dozens of other churches of Christian denominations throughout the city. “We have several Methodist and Baptist churches,” says Jodi Lawrence, a Realtor with Webber Land Company, who has lived near Winfield in Cowley County her entire life. “There’s no church building big enough to hold everyone.” Many of those churches are close to downtown, a section of Main Street with local businesses in century-old buildings. And while this little city is quite out there on its own in Cowley County’s rural countryside, people from all over the region visit the city for annual events and its large lake.
First Baptist Church in Winfield was started in 1870.
Most of the land in Winfield is rural farmland.
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From century-old houses to new developments
The median home price in Winfield is $136,500. The city is made up of grid-pattern streets with homes dating as far back as the late 1800s and early 1900s. These older homes are located close to downtown. Further east are more mid-century houses. Meanwhile, the city’s outskirts feature housing developments from the 1990s through today. Some of the most expensive houses surround golf courses or are on acres of land in the countryside. They can sell in the high $600,000s.
Winfield is located in Tornado Alley, a Midwest Region with high tornado activity between March and June. Because of this, many houses are built with basements, known to be one of the safest areas in a home during severe weather.
Many of the homes in downtown Winfield were built in the 1800s.
Some of the suburban housing developments have new traditional homes in Winfield.
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Downtown shops and restaurants on Main Street
Downtown Main Street is over a half-mile strip of local shops and restaurants with simple diagonal street parking. Many boutiques and antique stores are set up in downtown’s century-old buildings. By 5 p.m., most shops are closed, but there are a few bars and restaurants that stay open late. For everyday shopping needs, there’s a Walmart on the city's south side, and even more retailers about 14 miles south in Arkansas City, often called Ark City by locals. Lawrence says, “Anything you can’t find in Winfield, you can often find in Ark City.” While many people commute to Wichita to work, some of the largest employers in Winfield include the Newell Rubbermaid manufacturing plant, William Newton Hospital, the public school district and Southwestern College.
Downtown Winfield offers a variety of local shops and restaurants.
Many of the Winfield residents get their groceries from Walmart.
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Local and regional visitors to Winfield City Lake
The city maintains more than a dozen parks and recreational spaces. Winfield City Lake, the city’s primary water source, is about 10 miles from downtown, where people go to boat, fish and relax on the beach. “In the summertime, the lake is very busy – almost too busy,” says Lawrence. “During holidays, it is packed. You have to try to get your spot a week before you camp because it brings a lot of people from Wichita.” Closer to where people live are 10 municipal parks, an aquatic center, recreation complex, nature center and golf course all operated by the city. Island Park is one of the largest parks, featuring an amphitheater used for community events.
Kids living in Winfield can play at Island Park.
Winfield Lake is the city's primary water source, located 10 miles from downtown.
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Guitar flat-picking championships at the Walnut Valley Festival
Winfield Fairgrounds hosts the annual Walnut Valley Festival, a tradition that has been going strong since 1972, serving as the Walnut Valley National Guitar Flat-Picking Championships. The five-day event attracts people from all over the region. “People start coming a month before to camp,” says Lawrence, “And sometimes they’ll stay for a month after.” Several events are also held at Island Park, including a weekly farmers market, the Duck Jam in the Park summer concert series and Isle of Lights, a drive-thru holiday lights display.
Winfield Fairgrounds hosts the annual Walnut Valley Festival in Winfield.
Island Park is one of many recreational hubs in Winfield.
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Education through Winfield USD 465 and Southwestern College
Winfield Unified School District 465 serves the city and surrounding rural communities, earning a B-minus grade from Niche. Students are divided into four elementary schools and merge into one student body at Winfield Middle and Winfield High. Students can continue their studies in Winfield at Southwestern College. The private Methodist institution offers dozens of degrees from undergraduate to graduate programs. The Southwestern Jinx compete in several sports through the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics.
Winfield offers the USD 465 School district.
Winfield residents can get college degrees from Southwestern College.
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A 45-minute drive to Wichita
Most people drive to get around Winfield. However, Cowley County Public Transportation provides scheduled shuttle buses in the city and to Wichita. Commuters can drive about 45 minutes north to Wichita, whether starting their trip from U.S. Routes 77 or 160, Winfield’s two major highways. Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport is also the closest option to catch a commercial flight.
Lowest crime rate since 2009
After trending upward for about 12 years, Winfield’s crime rate fell in 2023 to its lowest point since 2009, according to the Kansas Bureau of Investigation. The Winfield Police Department’s website says it works to build relationships with the community to help break down barriers. They do so by offering a Citizens Police Academy and partnering with the school district and local organizations.
Written By
Nicolas Stuart
Photography Contributed By
Zach Manwell
Video By
Emily McNamara
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GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Winfield, KS sell after 69 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Winfield, KS over the last 12 months is $135,000, down 4% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Classic 1920s farmhouse charm meets functional living space at 219 Park St. Situated on a generous half-acre corner lot near Southwestern College and William Newton Hospital, this two-story history-filled home features 5 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, oversized living spaces, dual staircases, and an attached 2-car garage. Ideal for a large family or a high-demand medium to long-term rental property,
Welcome home to this beautifully maintained 3-bedroom residence situated on a desirable corner lot in one of Winfield's well-established neighborhoods. Lovingly cared for by the same owner for more than 38 years, this home offers the perfect blend of charm, comfort, and thoughtful updates. Step inside to discover a bright, welcoming interior with remodeled living spaces designed for everyday
Country Living Just Minutes from Town! Welcome home to this immaculate homestead nestled on 2 beautiful acres, offering the perfect blend of peaceful country living and convenient access to town. This move-in-ready property has been thoughtfully maintained and offers plenty of space for both everyday living and entertaining. The home features beautiful woodwork throughout, creating a warm and
Welcome to 915 E 15th Ave in Winfield, a spacious two-story home offering 4 bedrooms, an updated kitchen, main-floor laundry, and a separate guest house for added flexibility. Even better, the seller is offering up to $3,500 toward buyer closing costs with an acceptable offer! Situated on a corner lot, the main home provides plenty of space with a functional layout and a recently updated kitchen
MOVE-IN READY WITH A NEW ROOF, BRAND-NEW KITCHEN AND ROOM TO SPREAD OUT! 1800 Ritchie offers a great combination of updates, living space and lot size at $249,000. Major improvements include a NEW ROOF and BRAND-NEW KITCHEN, along with updated bathrooms, new flooring, fresh interior and exterior paint, and a finished basement that adds even more usable living space. The main level offers a
Classic 1920s farmhouse charm meets functional living space at 219 Park St. Situated on a generous half-acre corner lot near Southwestern College and William Newton Hospital, this two-story history-filled home features 5 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, oversized living spaces, dual staircases, and an attached 2-car garage. Ideal for a large family or a high-demand medium to long-term rental property,
Welcome home to this beautifully maintained 3-bedroom, 1.5-bathroom bungalow combining classic warmth with modern convenience. From the moment you arrive, the spacious covered front porch invites you to sit back and relax. Inside, you’ll immediately notice the gorgeous original hardwood floors that bring timeless character and warmth to the cozy, functional layout. Two bedrooms and a full
This exceptional 161.5 +/- acre hilltop farm in Cowley County, Kansas, offers a rare combination of extreme privacy, rugged topography, exceptional wildlife habitat, and proven trophy whitetail genetics. With newly improved access and only one way in and out, this property offers a level of seclusion that is becoming increasingly difficult to find. With no bordering roads and large neighboring
This 17+/- acre property just outside Winfield offers a versatile country setup with the space, improvements, and flexibility to fit far more than just an equestrian operation. The property features a 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home with 3,152+/- square feet, a workout room, basement, and downstairs storage room, providing plenty of room for both everyday living and additional uses. For the equine
Welcome to 78.77+/- acres of premier Flint Hills hunting land, where luxury living meets world-class whitetail hunting. Built in 2021, this unique 3-bedroom, 3-bathroom home offers 3,184+/- square feet of rustic-modern design, positioned to overlook a large stocked fishing pond. The home was constructed with an emphasis on quality, durability, and efficiency, featuring 2x6 exterior framing with
Welcome home to this charming four-bedroom 2 bath bungalow located in the heart of Winfield, Ks. Step inside and enjoy the warmth and character of the beautiful hardwood floors, ( some do need work). Comfortable living spaces throughout. With 4 bedrooms and 2 full baths, this home offers plenty of room for family, guest, or a home office. One of the highlights is the inviting covered from porch,
NEW ROOF prior to closing! Combine that with timeless brick charm, character, inviting porches, and thoughtful updates, and you'll quickly see why this adorable 2-bedroom, 1-bath bungalow is one you'll want to call home. From the moment you arrive, you'll be drawn to the home's timeless curb appeal featuring a charming brick archway entrance, new black shutters, and a cozy covered front porch
NEW NEW NEW! You won’t want to miss this beautiful new construction home in a desirable neighborhood amid the Quail Ridge Golf Course and there is not an HOA fee! (Covenants do exist). This cul-de-sac corner lot, custom built, two bed, two bath, home was completed in November of 2024 by McKenna and Company. Walking through the front door you’ll immediately see the well placed and lit display
The home has sold and the survey has been filed with the Cowley County Deeds Office. The farm ground mapping are estimates. For questions or to schedule a showing, please contact the listing agent.
Welcome to 1302 Hackney — a spacious and well-maintained 4-bedroom, 2-bath home offering the perfect blend of comfort andfunctionality. Inside, you’ll find a bright, inviting living room that flows seamlessly into a dedicated dining area and a well-equippedkitchen—ideal for family gatherings or entertaining friends. Step outside to discover a standout feature: a 22x25 heated and cooled shopwith a
Discover comfortable living in this charming 2-bedroom, 1-bathroom duplex unit spanning 800 sq ft at 211 W 10th Ave, Winfield, KS. Enjoy modern conveniences including central heat and air, ceiling fans, laminate flooring, W/D hookups. Tenant is responsible for all utilities. Pets are welcome with a pet deposit/fee. Schedule your tour today! Nicely updated duplex unit available on 10th Ave in
Discover your ideal living space in this charming 2-bedroom, 1-bathroom home, perfectly designed for comfort and convenience. Step inside to find a welcoming atmosphere accentuated by natural light that flows through the well-placed windows. Each bedroom offers ample space for relaxation and personalization, while the modern bathroom features sleek fixtures and thoughtful design, ensuring a
Discover comfort and convenience in Apt 2, a spacious 800 sq ft residential apartment featuring 2 bedrooms and 1 bathroom. This furnished unit boasts modern amenities including air conditioning, ceiling fans, laminate countertops, vinyl flooring, and full washer/dryer included. Enjoy the ease of a well-equipped kitchen with a microwave, range, and refrigerator, plus thoughtful touches like a
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