Newton KS

Newton, Kansas – a charming Midwestern gem where friendly faces, rich history, and wide-open skies come together. Nestled just north of Wichita, Newton blends small-town warmth with a vibrant community spirit. Whether you're strolling along historic Main Street, exploring railroad heritage, or enjoying local eateries, this welcoming city offers a peaceful pace of life with just the right touch of adventure.

• Population: ~18,500
• Weather: Four distinct seasons; hot summers (80s-90s°F), chilly winters (20s-40s°F), mild springs and falls.
• Places To Visit: Kauffman Museum, Sand Creek Station Golf Course, Newton Public Library, Historic Downtown Newton, Harvey County East Park.
• Top Activities: Biking along the trail systems, attending local festivals, exploring antique shops, enjoying a round of golf, or fishing at East Lake.
• Famous Food: Burgers at Back Alley Pizza, classic comfort meals at Breadbasket, homemade pastries at Druber’s Donut Shop, and local BBQ favorites.

Newton, Kansas is a growing Midwest community with strong roots in agriculture, healthcare, manufacturing, and education. The city’s location near Wichita also opens doors to opportunities in aviation and logistics. Here are the top jobs currently in demand in Newton, KS.

Top 5 Jobs in Newton, KS

Newton, Kansas may be a small town, but it has plenty of charm and low-key hangout spots that are perfect for students looking to unwind. Whether you're at Bethel College or just around town, there are plenty of relaxing corners, outdoor spaces, and fun finds to explore with friends.

Sand Creek Trail – Need a break from books and screens? Head out to Sand Creek Trail. It's peaceful, scenic, and great for a walk, jog, or just sitting on a bench with a coffee. The open skies and quiet path really help clear your mind.

Kauffman Museum – Yes, it’s a museum, but it’s actually a chill place to explore history and culture in an interactive way. Walk through the outdoor prairie trail or learn something new about Mennonite roots while taking it slow.

The Leaf Tea Lounge – This cozy local hangout has everything students love—bubble tea, quiet study spots, and comfy seating. It’s great for catching up on homework or meeting with friends for a relaxing drink between classes.

Newton Public Library – Believe it or not, this little library is super student-friendly. Whether you need to dive into research or just find a calm, quiet zone to recharge, this spot has a welcoming vibe and even hosts chill events from time to time.

Fischer Field Stadium – When the weather's right, this place is perfect for casual hangouts. Whether you're watching a local game or just enjoying the open space with friends, it’s a classic small-town experience that never gets old.

Downtown Newton – The historic downtown area is full of cool little shops, bakeries, and antique stores. It’s super walkable, Insta-worthy in spots, and a fun way to spend a lazy weekend afternoon.

Druber's Donut Shop – Open late (yes, even past midnight sometimes), this legendary donut spot is a go-to for late-night cravings. Grab a hot glazed donut and cup of coffee after a study session or just because—you’ve earned it.

Sand Creek Station Golf Course – Not into golf? No worries. This course also has scenic views and trails, perfect for destressing. Plus, watching the sunset from the course is pretty unforgettable.

Life in Newton is all about finding joy in the little things. Whether you're into quiet nature spots, great coffee, or quirky local gems, there's always a place to relax, recharge, and make some memories.

Newton, KS is a welcoming city with a strong commitment to education. Here, students can find quality colleges and universities that offer a diverse range of programs in the arts, business, education, and the sciences. Whether you’re looking for a public or private institution, Newton and its surrounding areas provide exceptional opportunities for higher learning in supportive environments.

Top Public Colleges & Universities in Newton, KS

Hesston College (Public Programs) – Located just five miles north of Newton, Hesston College offers associate degrees and strong transfer programs. While technically a private college, it provides accessible public pathways in aviation, nursing, and liberal arts, making it popular with local residents.

Butler Community College (Newton Campus) – This respected community college has a Newton location where students can start their education close to home. Butler CC is known for its associate degree and technical certificate offerings, particularly in business, information technology, and healthcare.

Wichita State University (Extended Campus Programs in Newton) – Wichita State’s presence in Newton provides local students with access to bachelor’s and master’s degree courses in fields such as business, education, and engineering. These extension programs make higher education more accessible for Newton residents.

Emporia State University (Satellite Programs in Newton) – Emporia State’s Newton-based outreach offers educational and graduate coursework primarily in the field of education, catering to aspiring teachers and administrators in the area.

Barton Community College (Area Programs) – Barton offers a range of continuing education and technical skills programs available to Newton residents, focusing on adult education, workforce development, and professional certification.

Top Private Colleges & Universities in Newton, KS

Bethel College – Located right in North Newton, Bethel is a highly respected private institution committed to the liberal arts and sciences. Offering undergraduate degrees in education, social work, business, nursing, and more, Bethel provides a supportive, close-knit campus atmosphere.

Central Christian College (McPherson) – While about 30 miles away in McPherson, this private college is popular with Newton residents for its Christian-centered education and bachelor’s degree programs in business, psychology, ministry, and education.

Friends University (Wichita, accessible to Newton) – A distinguished private university in nearby Wichita, Friends offers extensive undergraduate and graduate programs. Many Newton students attend Friends for business, education, and liberal arts studies, both on campus and via flexible online options.

Southwestern College (Professional Studies – Online/Outreach) – With strong ties to the Newton community, Southwestern College’s Professional Studies division offers online and evening courses in business, health science, education, and more, ideal for working adults.

Tabor College (Hillsboro, accessible to Newton) – Known for its Christian values and strong liberal arts tradition, Tabor College in Hillsboro is just a short drive from Newton. It attracts many local students pursuing degrees in business, education, music, and ministry.

Newton, KS and its surrounding region offer a supportive and accessible higher education landscape. Whether public or private, students will find excellent opportunities to launch their academic journeys and professional careers right in their own backyard.

Newton, Kansas, might be a small community, but it offers great options when it comes to high schools. Families looking for the best educational experiences will find both public and private schools committed to excellence, character development, and future readiness. Whether you're seeking college prep programs or values-driven education, Newton has solid choices that foster student growth and achievement.

Top Public High Schools in Newton, KS

• Newton High School – As the primary public high school in the district, Newton High School offers a comprehensive curriculum with AP courses, strong athletics, and a variety of extracurriculars. It’s known for its supportive teachers and community involvement.
• Halstead High School – Located just outside of Newton, this small public high school emphasizes academic rigor and a close-knit learning environment. Students benefit from individual attention and solid college prep guidance.
• Sedgwick High School – Serving a rural area near Newton, this school focuses on strong academic values and student leadership. Small class sizes make it easier for students to thrive both academically and socially.
• Hesston High School – Though in the nearby town of Hesston, this school is popular among Newton families. It offers a wide array of educational programs, vibrant fine arts, and career readiness courses.
• Buhler High School – A little farther away but worth the mention, Buhler High has earned recognition for academic excellence and innovative teaching. It offers advanced placement classes and competitive sports programs.

Top Private High Schools in or Near Newton, KS

• Berean Academy, Elbing – Just northeast of Newton, this Christian school is known for its academic excellence and spiritual development. It offers a strong college-prep track and is highly rated by parents for its nurturing environment.
• Central Christian School, Hutchinson – A K-12 private Christian school located near Newton. It provides faith-based instruction, a positive school culture, and a strong sense of community along with core academic subjects.
• Trinity Catholic Jr/Sr High School, Hutchinson – A respected private school with a Catholic foundation. Trinity focuses on academic discipline, character building, and athletic involvement.
• Sunrise Christian Academy, Bel Aire – Though a short drive from Newton, Sunrise Christian is a popular choice for families seeking a rigorous academic program infused with Christian values and international exposure.
• Wichita Collegiate School, Wichita – Considered one of the top-tier private schools in the region, it’s about 30 minutes from Newton. It offers exceptional college prep programs, top-notch faculty, and a strong focus on leadership and innovation.

Choosing the right high school is a pivotal step in a student’s journey. Whether you lean toward public schools with rich histories and strong community ties, or private institutions that emphasize faith and personalized learning, Newton and its surrounding areas offer meaningful options. Always consider what curriculum, culture, and support systems best match your family’s values and your student’s goals.

While Newton, Kansas may be a small city with deep roots in agriculture and railroad history, professional sports teams don't call this hometown theirs. However, that doesn't mean the residents of Newton don't have strong ties and loyalty to major league sports. From cheering on Kansas City’s pros to supporting Wichita's athletic franchises, Newton holds a front-row seat to some of the region’s most exciting sports action.

Here’s a closer look at the professional teams that capture the hearts of Newton sports fans across various leagues.

Football – Kansas City Chiefs (NFL)

• Kansas City Chiefs – Just a few hours from Newton, the Kansas City Chiefs are a powerhouse in the NFL. With three Super Bowl victories (1970, 2020, and 2023), the Chiefs are led by star quarterback Patrick Mahomes and Head Coach Andy Reid. The team’s passionate fan base spans across Kansas and Missouri, and their recent success has only added more Newton followers to Chiefs Kingdom.

Baseball – Kansas City Royals & Wichita Wind Surge (MLB & MiLB)

• Kansas City Royals – The Royals have a proud legacy, winning two World Series titles (1985 and 2015). With a farm system focused on building from within, Newton’s baseball fans often watch Royals talent develop over the years, making their journey to the big leagues all the more exciting.
• Wichita Wind Surge – Located less than 30 minutes from Newton, the Wind Surge are a Double-A affiliate of the Minnesota Twins. Playing at Riverfront Stadium, they bring affordable and family-friendly baseball entertainment to the community. This minor league team gives fans in Newton a chance to enjoy live pro-level baseball without traveling far.

Basketball – Kansas City Kings (Historical) & Wichita Sky Kings (TBL)

• Kansas City Kings (Historical) – While Kansas City once had an NBA team, the Kings left in 1985 to become the Sacramento Kings. Despite their departure, many older fans in the area fondly recall the team's former presence in the region’s sports scene.
• Wichita Sky Kings – A new addition to the pro basketball landscape, the Sky Kings play in The Basketball League (TBL) and launched in 2023. They bring competitive action and a fresh vibe to south-central Kansas, creating new sports excitement for basketball fans in and around Newton.

Hockey – Wichita Thunder (ECHL)

• Wichita Thunder – Hockey might not be the first sport you think of in Kansas, but the Wichita Thunder have been a staple since 1992. As part of the ECHL and an affiliate of the San Jose Sharks (NHL), the Thunder offer high-energy games and a loyal fan community. They’re a short drive from Newton, making them an accessible and thrilling local option for puck lovers.

Soccer – Sporting Kansas City (MLS)

• Sporting Kansas City – Representing top-tier soccer in the region, Sporting KC is a Major League Soccer team with a strong winning tradition. They’ve won two MLS Cups (2000 and 2013) and three U.S. Open Cups (2004, 2012, 2015). Known for their electrifying atmosphere at Children’s Mercy Park, they draw loyal fans from all over Kansas, including Newton.

Although Newton doesn’t have a professional sports team of its own, its central location and community spirit connect local fans to some of the most exciting franchises in Kansas and beyond. From NFL thrills to minor league charm, Newton’s sports scene proves that passion for the game doesn’t need city lights—it just needs loyal fans and a love for hometown pride.

Newton, Kansas might be a small city, but it has a big personality and a rich story that surprises many who visit or research this Midwestern gem. Whether you’re a history buff, a railroad enthusiast, or just love learning about off-the-beaten-path places, here are some fun facts about Newton, KS:

1. Railroad Roots – Newton was founded in 1871 as a railroad town, playing a key role on the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway, which helped fuel the westward expansion of the U.S.
2. The Wild West Was Here – Newton was once known as the “wickedest city in the West” due to its lawless early days as a cattle town full of saloons and gunslingers.
3. Harvey County Home – Newton is the county seat of Harvey County, which was named after James M. Harvey, a U.S. Senator and former Governor of Kansas.
4. Train-Lover’s Paradise – Today, Newton is still a major player in rail travel and acts as an Amtrak stop for passengers traveling on the Southwest Chief line between Chicago and Los Angeles.
5. Mennonite Heritage – Newton has deep Mennonite roots. Many settlers of Mennonite descent helped establish the city’s culture, schooling, and traditions that still shape it today.
6. Sand Creek Runs Through It – The scenic Sand Creek flows right through Newton and is lined by trails that are popular for walking, biking, and birdwatching.
7. Kauffman Museum Nearby – Just outside Newton, you’ll find the Kauffman Museum, a charming spot with exhibits on Kansas history, natural science, and Mennonite culture.
8. Home of the Railers – Newton High School’s mascot is the Railers, a nod to the city’s strong connection to the railroad industry.
9. Aviation History – Newton has a bit of aviation history too. The Newton City/County Airport began as a World War II pilot training base.
10. Small-Town Charm, Big Festivals – Each year, Newton celebrates with events like Taste of Newton, a popular fall street festival filled with local food, entertainment, and small-town hospitality.