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Topeka is the capital city of Kansas with a population of approximately 125,000 residents, serving as the center of state government and a regional hub in northeast Kansas. The city is home to Washburn University and benefits from stable employment anchored by state agencies, healthcare systems, and manufacturing. Topeka offers a low cost of living compared to most college cities, making it an accessible option for students and young professionals. The city features parks, a revitalizing downtown district, and proximity to the Flint Hills region. While Topeka is more commuter-oriented than typical college towns, its affordability and community character attract a steady population of students and families.
Here's what you need to know about getting around Topeka.
Topeka Metro operates a fixed-route bus network that covers key corridors in the city, including routes connecting the Washburn University area to downtown. However, service frequency is limited and many routes run infrequently, which makes transit unreliable as a primary transportation mode. Students relying on buses should plan schedules carefully and expect longer travel times between destinations.
The College Hill neighborhood and the area immediately around campus are reasonably walkable for students who live close to Washburn. The city has some shared-use paths, particularly near Gage Park and along the Kansas River, that are suitable for recreational cycling. Street cycling infrastructure is limited outside of these areas, so students biking for transportation should use caution on busier roads.
Parking in Topeka is widely available and free or low-cost in most residential neighborhoods and commercial areas. The Washburn University campus offers student parking permits at modest fees, and off-campus properties typically include dedicated parking. Students with cars face few of the parking challenges common to larger or denser college cities.
Common questions from students searching for housing.
Topeka offers an affordable and stable living environment for students, with low rents and a reasonable cost of living. The city has a college-town feel near Washburn but is more oriented toward working professionals and families than a typical university city.
Browse student housing near each Topeka-area university.