The Best Neighborhoods in Kansas City
Thinking about relocating to Kansas City? One of the first questions our relocation clients ask is: “What are the best neighborhoods in Kansas City?”With over 240 unique neighborhoods to choose from, finding the answer to this question can be slightly overwhelming. This is especially true for newcomers and often for locals. The atmosphere varies widely from one KC neighborhood to the next. In some areas, the locale is so distinct it almost feels like its own miniature city.When looking for a home in Kansas City, getting to know the neighborhoods is a must. Luckily, you don’t have to do it alone. Let’s take a look at some of the best neighborhoods in Kansas City, along with what makes them stand out from the rest.Note: If you don’t see a neighborhood on this list that sounds like the right place for you, consult with one of our agents. They know this town and will be able to help you find where the best place is for your new home!
The Best Neighborhoods in Kansas City: What Makes Them So Great?
The neighborhoods below all cater to different lifestyles and budgets – keep reading to learn more.
1. Brookside, MO — Small Town in a Big City
Brookside provides the familiar comforts of a small town in a big city.Just close enough to the action, yet still blissfully suburban, this neighborhood is located on the Missouri side of Kansas City.This beautiful neighborhood is known for its warm, inviting atmosphere, unique shops, and gorgeous homes. Approximately 11,000 residents call this tight-knit Kansas City neighborhood home.The first ‘suburban’ shopping area in Kansas City, this neighborhood is full of opportunities to indulge, amuse, and explore. From numerous local shops, upscale eateries and stylish coffee shops to quaint restaurants and a laid back night-life, Brookside has something to satisfy almost every interest. For those who prefer a walkable community, this neighborhood is a wonderful fit.Best neighborhood in Kansas City for: Almost anyone. Young professionals and families will both enjoy the plethora of amenities and comforts this neighborhood has to offer.Highlights: Close to the city, but not in the city. Countless unique places to dine, shop, and play.
2. River Market, MO — Walkable and Modern
This downtown Kansas City neighborhood has been revitalized for a new generation of young professionals. The result? Urban living with neighborhood vibes.Despite the big city atmosphere, comforts of the Midwest still permeate this urban area. Home to the region’s largest Farmer’s Market, the renowned City Market offers fresh produce and goods on Saturdays and Sundays, “Bringing ‘Farm to Table’ in the heart of the city.”One of those places you can almost get away with saying goodbye to your car, River Market is perfect for those who value an urban, walkable lifestyle.The majority of current River Market residents are in their late 20s and early 30s. However, there are also plenty of older residents and even some families with children who are drawn to the unique atmosphere of this area.The cost of living is considered standard, ranked 1% above the national average. River Market offers housing opportunities to suit a variety of incomes and lifestyles, from stylish lofts and condos to contemporary homes to various upscale and income-based apartment complexes. For those who enjoy life in the city, the possibilities are plentiful in River Market.Best Neighborhood in Kansas City for: Career-minded young professionals and people who value downtown, city lifestyles.Highlights: Reasonable cost of living, a variety of luxury and affordable real estate options.
3. Overland Park, KS — Family-friendly and Safe
Located just 15-20 minutes from the heart of downtown, this beautiful area is home to about 183,755 residents.Although it is quite large, this town in Johnson County, KS is perfect for young families and couples looking to settle into a quiet suburban lifestyle.Overland Park is brimming with local amenities and family-friendly activities. The area is home to various outdoor trails and parks and local restaurants, providing plenty of opportunities for awesome leisurely family time.Whether you’re spending a day with the kids at Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead or exploring the Overland Park Arboretum and Botanical Gardens–you’ll never run out of exciting ways to fill up your weekends.The cost of living in Overland Park is right around normal, just 3% higher than the US average. An investment in real estate in this area tends to be a good one since Overland Park has some of the highest home appreciation rates in the country.The schools in the Overland Park area are also considered some of the best in the country. For example, the Blue Valley School District was one of Niche’s 2019 Best School Districts in America.This neighborhood is best for: Families with children, looking for a safe place to raise a family with plenty of fun activities. Buyers or investors looking for a secure long-term real estate investment.Highlights: High home appreciation rates, low crime, family-friendly community in close proximity to the city
4. Leawood, KS — Luxury Suburban Lifestyle
A few miles from Overland Park, Leawood presents another peaceful, suburban neighborhood in the Kansas City area.Leawood is full of gorgeous upscale homes and estates. If a quiet, luxurious neighborhood in the suburbs is your ideal lifestyle, this area will be the perfect fit.Similar to Overland Park, Leawood is a quiet community known for its family-friendly atmosphere. Trendy, upscale restaurants, casual dining, and the renowned Leawood Stage Company provide plenty of opportunities for entertainment, relaxation, and wholesome fun.Leawood also has access to excellent public schools, with almost 100% of all high school students receiving their diplomas. Average test scores in this community are almost 90% higher than the rest of the state and 43% higher than the national average.Best Neighborhood in Kansas City for: Homebuyers looking for premium real estate options in a quiet, suburban neighborhood. Families looking for well-renowned schools.Highlights: Peaceful, Upscale, family-friendly neighborhood
5. Volker, MO — Laidback and Diverse
We are going to head back into Missouri to an area of the city which is highly walkable with plenty to do an see, this Midtown neighborhood is at the center of the action.Volker is home to a youthful and diverse population, featuring plenty of opportunities for shopping, a budding nightlife district, numerous outdoor parks, and sidewalks on almost every street.The real estate in this bustling Kansas City neighborhood consists of sprawling homes, red-brick apartment buildings, bungalows, and plenty of large houses converted into apartments. Perfect for creatives and adults without children, if you enjoy the freedom of a laid back lifestyle, you will love the atmosphere in Volker.Best Neighborhood in Kansas City for: Young creatives and eccentrics. Young professionals without children.Highlights: Night-life district, diverse population.
6. Waldo, MO — Starter Home Heaven
Waldo is a cute, quaint community located right on the edge of the city center. If you’re just starting out in real estate or looking to start over, this neighborhood will likely be a good fit.With plenty of locally-owned shops, boutiques, trendy coffee shops, day spas and nightlife, this neighborhood has plenty of choices to keep you busy on the weekends.The cost of living in Waldo is affordable, reportedly 16% lower than the national average.A perfect place to find your first home, this neighborhood is also known for being a great place to find affordable real estate. A quality two-bedroom home typically runs anywhere from $80,000 to $200,000.Best Neighborhood in Kansas City for: Young professionals looking to find their first home. People looking to downsize.Highlights: Bikeable, walkable, affordable. More than half of businesses here are locally owned.
Which Neighborhood is Right for You?
Ultimately, when searching for the perfect home in Kansas City, the devil is in the details. Determining the best place to live will depend largely on your individual needs.From cost of living and local culture to public school districts, and overall livability–there’s a lot to consider.
How Our Relocation Specialists Can Help
Cami Jones Collaborative knows Kansas City. Our relocation specialists can help you get to know the area and assist you with all the small details to make the buying process as easy as possible.Let Cami Jones Collaborative help you move into your new life. Together we’ll find your perfect fit in Kansas City. Get in touch with our relocation specialists today by calling 913-521-8883