A central location, solid economy and infrastructure development are helping keep Topeka’s real estate markets healthy. With a cost of living 8 percent below the national average and six major highways, Topeka’s outlook continues to improve in virtually all sectors.

Topeka’s healthy commercial development includes a number of warehouse and distribution facilities. The $80 million Target distribution facility brought 600 new jobs to the area. Goodyear Tire & Rubber invested more than $120 million to renovate 400,000 square feet at its Topeka plant. The Sports Car Club of America completed relocation of its national headquarters at the former Forbes Field Air Force Base.

Near Forbes Field, the 600-acre Commerce Business Park has expanded considerably the city’s opportunities for growth and development. Major, existing facilities include Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company; Payless ShoeSource; Hallmark Cards; Frito-Lay; Hill’s Pet Nutrition; Heinz Pet Products; Burlington Northern and the Target distribution center.

The city’s office market probably is weakest, although regional medical services provide balance. The medical sector, second only to state government for employment, remains healthy and continues to generate office demand.

Retail in Topeka is healthy. Older centers have found new life through redevelopment, some quite visionary. The Gage Center was redesigned as a “lifestyle center” featuring a mix of dining and entertainment options.

The most dramatic new project is River Hill. Located north of I-70 near Wanamaker, this development includes a lifestyle center, residential property, an office park and a large park area.

Topeka’s housing market is one of the best in the United States. Topeka recently was ranked the seventh most affordable housing market in the entire country, according to The Wall Street Journal. A 2,200 square-foot home with four bedrooms and a two-car garage costs an average of approximately $141,850 in Topeka, compared to $206,802 in Overland Park.

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graphic content without permission is prohibited. | Destination Topeka is a supplement to Ingram's Magazine