Why Live in College Hill
College Hill in Topeka, located just north of Washburn University, is a historic neighborhood with nearly 300 preserved homes dating back to the late 1800s. The area is known for its mature trees, planted by the university's president, Peter McVicar, which provide ample shade and enhance the neighborhood's charm. The community is active and engaged, with many civic volunteers and elected officials residing within its bounds. Boswell Square Park, a central attraction, offers a playground, basketball court, field, gazebo, and tree-lined walkway, and hosts community events such as the annual Fourth of July parade and Wall of Fame induction. Homes in College Hill feature a variety of architectural styles, including Craftsman bungalows, Victorian homes, Colonial Revivals, and English-style cottages, each unique and documented by the National Registry of Historic Places. The neighborhood's proximity to Washburn University means many professors and students live here, contributing to its vibrant atmosphere. Local dining options on Southwest 17th Street include popular cafes like Coffee Bar and Circle Coffee Co., as well as Mexican eateries Margarita's Jalisco and Fuzzy's Taco Shop. For shopping, residents travel about 4 miles west to West Ridge Mall and other retailers on Wanamaker Road. While the neighborhood lacks bike lanes, crosswalks connect to bike lanes on the university campus, and Topeka Metro buses provide convenient transportation throughout the city. Interstate 70, running through downtown Topeka, offers easy access to Kansas City, approximately 60 miles east.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is College Hill a good place to live?
College Hill is a good place to live. College Hill is considered car-dependent and very bikeable with some transit options. College Hill has 11 parks for recreational activities. It is somewhat dense in population with 8.8 people per acre and a median age of 33. The average household income is $78,515 which is below the national average. College graduates make up 42.7% of residents. A majority of residents in College Hill are home owners, with 37.1% of residents renting and 62.9% of residents owning their home. A
local real estate agent serving College Hill can help you decide if this neighborhood is the right one for you. Learn more on our
College Hill neighborhood guide.
How much do you need to make to afford a house in College Hill?
The median home price in College Hill is $159,000. If you put a 20% down payment of $31,800 and had a 30-year fixed mortgage with an interest rate of 6.56%, your estimated principal and interest payment would be $810 a month plus property taxes, HOA fees, home insurance, PMI, and utilities. Using the 28% rule, you would need to make at least $35K a year to afford the median home price in College Hill. The average household income in College Hill is $79K.
What are the best public schools in College Hill?
The best public schools that serve College Hill are:
What are the best private schools in College Hill?
The best private schools that serve College Hill are:
What are the most popular zip codes in College Hill, Topeka, KS?
What are the most popular neighborhoods near College Hill, Topeka, KS?
Are home prices dropping in College Hill?
Yes, home prices in College Hill are down 10% in the last 12 months.
Home Trends in College Hill, KS
On average, homes in College Hill, Topeka sell after 33 days on the market compared to the national average of 52 days. The median sale price for homes in College Hill, Topeka over the last 12 months is $149,950, down 3% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Median Sale Price
$149,950
Median Single Family Sale Price
$158,900
Average Price Per Sq Ft
$97
Number of Homes for Sale
4
Last 12 months Home Sales
16
Median List Price
$159,000
Median Change From 1st List Price
3%
Median Home Sale Price YoY Change
-3%