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Is Kansas City a Good Place to Live?

Kansas City, Missouri, often referred to as KC, is consistently recognized as one of the best places to live in the U.S. With its affordable cost of living, low unemployment rate, and vibrant arts and culture scene, it’s no wonder why Kansas City is gaining in popularity and people are considering making this city their home. In this blog, we will explore the various aspects of living in Kansas City, from its thriving economy to affordable housing, and recreational activities. By the end, you’ll have a good understanding of why Kansas City is a nice place to live.

5 Reasons Why Kansas City is a Good Place to Live

Kansas City offers a wide range of urban and suburban living experiences for young people and families alike, so no matter what type of vibe you are looking for, you can find it in Kansas City. The city’s central location allows for easy access to any part of the country, while its robust job market and affordable housing make it a good place to settle down. Residents can enjoy the best of both worlds – the amenities of a big city and the tight-knit community feel of a smaller town.

Reason 1: Kansas City Has an Affordable Cost of Living

Kansas City boasts an affordable cost of living with a low cost of housing that’s a pleasant surprise for current residents and newcomers alike. With lower housing prices compared to many major metropolitan areas, you can stretch your budget without sacrificing quality of life. According to Porch, the cost of living in Kansas City was 5.3% below the national average, from groceries to gas, utilities, and housing. This makes Kansas City one of the most affordable places to live in the Midwest and the 11th most affordable large metro area in the country.

Reason 2: Kansas City is a Great Place to Raise a Family

Due to the affordable cost of living, Kansas City is a very attractive place for people looking to live comfortably and within their means. The affordable housing options in Kansas City, including diverse homes with 3-4 bedrooms, a large backyard, and a finished basement, make it possible for families to afford their dream home without having to spend a million dollars. The strong housing market in Kansas City ensures that there are a variety of neighborhoods and suburbs to choose from. Many people find it easier to buy a house in Kansas City compared to many other large metro areas, thanks to the reasonable home prices available.

Top Kansas City Suburbs to Live or Raise a Family

Overland Park, KS

Overview: Overland Park is one of the largest suburbs in the Kansas City metro area and is known for its family-friendly atmosphere, excellent schools, and vibrant shopping and dining scene. 

  • Population: 197,106
  • Median Household Income: $92,769
  • Median Home Value: $449,945
  • Mean Travel Time to Downtown KC: 20 minutes
  • Public School Ranking: 9/10

Top Attractions:

  • Overland Park Arboretum and Botanical Gardens: A beautiful oasis with walking trails, gardens, and educational programs.
  • Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead: A family-friendly attraction featuring farm animals and interactive exhibits.
  • Museum at Prairie Fire: A 42,000 museum where kids can explore a range of exhibits on paleontology, geology, and astronomy.

For more information on Overland Park, visit the Overland Park City Website.

Leawood, Kansas

Overview: Leawood is an affluent suburb of Kansas City, offering a luxurious lifestyle, upscale shopping, and beautiful parks.

  • Population: 33,743
  • Median Household Income: $159,540
  • Median Home Value: $681,403
  • Mean Travel Time to Downtown KC: 20 minutes
  • Public School Ranking: 9/10

Top Attractions:

  • Town Center Plaza: A premier shopping destination with high-end retailers and dining options.
  • Ironwoods Park: A scenic park with walking trails, a nature center, and a lake.

For more information on Leawood, visit the Leawood City Website.

Olathe, Kansas

Overview: Olathe is a diverse and rapidly growing suburb with a strong sense of community, a thriving job market, and excellent schools.

  • Population: 143,014
  • Median Household Income: $100,849
  • Median Home Value: $373,957
  • Mean Travel Time to Downtown KC: 20 minutes
  • Public School Ranking: 8/10

Top Attractions:

  • Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop & Farm Historic Site: Offers a glimpse into the region’s history with stagecoach rides and farm activities.
  • Olathe Parks and Recreation: A network of parks, trails, and recreational facilities for outdoor enthusiasts.

For more information on Olathe, visit the Olathe City Website.

Lenexa, Kansas

Overview: Lenexa is a thriving community known for its business-friendly environment, quality of life, and recreational opportunities.

  • Population: 58,388
  • Median Household Income: $96,477
  • Median Home Value: $404,623
  • Mean Travel Time to Downtown KC: 20 minutes
  • Public School Ranking: 9/10

Top Attractions:

  • Shawnee Mission Park: A vast park offering boating, fishing, hiking trails, and an off-leash dog park.
  • Lenexa Public Market: A hub for foodies with various dining options and unique shops.

For more information on Lenexa, visit the Lenexa City Website.

Shawnee, Kansas

Overview: Shawnee is a charming suburb known for its friendly community, historic sites, and recreational amenities.

  • Population: 67,511
  • Median Household Income: $93,835
  • Median Home Value: $360,063
  • Mean Travel Time to Downtown KC: 20 minutes
  • Public School Ranking: 9/10

Top Attractions:

  • Wonderscope Children’s Museum: A hands-on museum for children with interactive exhibits.
  • Shawnee Mission Park Beach: A sandy beach and swimming area in a picturesque park setting.

For more information on Shawnee, visit the Shawnee City Website.

Blue Springs, Missouri

Overview: Blue Springs is a thriving suburb in Missouri, offering a mix of small-town charm and modern amenities.

  • Population: 59,430
  • Median Household Income: $78,516
  • Median Home Value: $294,134
  • Mean Travel Time to Downtown KC: 20 minutes
  • Public School Ranking: 8/10

Top Attractions:

  • Fleming Park: A large park with a lake, camping facilities, and hiking trails.
  • Burr Oak Woods Nature Center: A nature center with educational exhibits and scenic trails.

For more information on Blue Springs, visit the Blue Springs City Website.

Lee’s Summit, Missouri

Overview: Lee’s Summit is a rapidly growing suburb in Missouri with a strong sense of community and a diverse range of amenities.

  • Population: 102,781
  • Median Household Income: $98,960
  • Median Home Value: $357,144
  • Mean Travel Time to Downtown KC: 20 minutes
  • Public School Ranking: 8/10

Top Attractions:

  • Longview Lake Park: Offers boating, fishing, hiking, and picnicking opportunities.
  • Paradise Park: A family entertainment center with mini-golf, go-karts, and arcade games.

For more information on Lee’s Summit, visit the Lee’s Summit City Website.

Liberty, Missouri

Overview: Liberty is a historic suburb with a strong sense of community, excellent schools, and a charming downtown area.

  • Population: 30,377
  • Median Household Income: $81,352
  • Median Home Value: $327,987
  • Mean Travel Time to Downtown KC: 20 minutes
  • Public School Ranking: 7/10

Top Attractions:

  • Liberty Jail Historic Site: A historic site that played a role in early Mormon history.
  • Liberty Community Center: Offers fitness facilities, aquatic activities, and recreational programs.

For more information on Liberty, visit the Liberty City Website.

Parkville, Missouri

Overview: Parkville is a picturesque suburb along the Missouri River, known for its scenic beauty, historic downtown shops, restaurants, and cultural events.

  • Population: 7,700
  • Median Household Income: $173,047
  • Median Home Value: $595,000
  • Mean Travel Time to Downtown KC: 20 minutes
  • Public School Ranking: 9/10

Top Attractions:

  • Parkville Nature Sanctuary: A serene nature reserve with walking trails and wildlife viewing.
  • Park University: A renowned institution with cultural events and beautiful campus grounds.

For more information on Parkville, visit the Parkville City Website.

Prairie Village, Kansas

Overview: Prairie Village is a charming suburb with a strong sense of community, well-maintained parks, and a vibrant arts scene.

  • Population: 22,878
  • Median Household Income: $92,753
  • Median Home Value: $433,382
  • Mean Travel Time to Downtown KC: 15 minutes
  • Public School Ranking: 9/10

Top Attractions:

  • The Village Shops: A collection of boutiques and restaurants in a picturesque outdoor setting.
  • For more information on Prairie Village, visit the Prairie Village City Website.

Reason 3: Kansas City Has a Healthy Job Market

Top Employers in Kansas City

When it comes to employment opportunities in the heartland of the United States, the Kansas City metropolitan area shines as a hub for diverse industries and top-notch employers. This thriving region, straddling the borders of Kansas and Missouri, boasts a vibrant economy with a plethora of job options. Let’s explore some of the area’s top employers that make Kansas City a prime destination for career growth and offers plenty of opportunities.

Cerner Corporation: Leading the healthcare IT sector, Cerner is headquartered in Kansas City and provides software solutions for healthcare organizations worldwide. With over 35,000 employees, Cerner offers a wide range of career opportunities, from software development to healthcare consulting.

Hallmark Cards, Inc.: A household name in the greeting card industry, Hallmark is headquartered in Kansas City and employs thousands of people. Hallmark offers creative positions in design, marketing, and more.

H&R Block: This financial services giant is headquartered in Kansas City and hires a significant workforce during tax season. Opportunities range from tax professionals to customer service roles.

Sprint (now part of T-Mobile): The telecommunications industry found a strong presence in Kansas City with Sprint, which has now merged with T-Mobile. This merger has created new job prospects in the tech and telecom sectors.

Garmin International: Known for its GPS technology, Garmin is headquartered in Olathe, Kansas, a part of the Kansas City metro area. Careers in engineering, design, and product development are prevalent here.

Burns & McDonnell: This engineering and architecture firm, based in Kansas City, offers a wide array of engineering and construction-related career opportunities. With a reputation for innovation, Burns & McDonnell is a prominent employer in the region.

University of Kansas Health System: The healthcare sector thrives with the University of Kansas Health System, providing healthcare services and research opportunities. Opportunities span from healthcare providers to administrative roles.

Whether you’re an IT enthusiast, creative mind, financial whiz, or healthcare professional, the Kansas City metropolitan area offers a wealth of employment prospects across diverse industries. With its robust job market and excellent quality of life, it’s no wonder that Kansas City continues to attract top talent from across the nation. Explore your career options in this vibrant and welcoming city today!

Reason 4: Commuting in Kansas City Is a Breeze

Kansas City stands out over other major US cities due to the ease of its transportation infrastructure.

Non-Congested Highways: Driving in the Kansas City metro area is convenient and pleasant, especially when compared to larger cities. With the average commute taking around 20 minutes, residents have more time to enjoy their destination rather than sitting in traffic for hours.

Kansas City International Airport (MCI): The new Kansas City International Airport (MCI) offers guests an enhanced travel experience with modern amenities. It features spacious lounges, free Wi-Fi, and extensive retail outlets. The coolest part about the new airport is that travelers can experience all the best KC has to offer. They have carefully designed the airport with a local flare including Kansas City’s most popular restaurants, breweries, and shops. MCI also boasts increased direct flights, connecting travelers to major domestic and international destinations more efficiently. This state-of-the-art facility redefines air travel in the Midwest.

Light Rail System: KC Streetcar: This modern transit option serves Union Station, the Crossroads Arts District, the Power and Light District, the city’s central business district, and the historic River Market/City Market along with numerous other businesses, restaurants, art galleries, educational facilities, and neighborhoods. The streetcar runs daily and is FREE to ride.

Reason 5: Leisure and Entertainment in Kansas City

If you’re looking for things to do and places to go in Kansas City, you won’t be disappointed. The city offers an array of options to have a good time, from enjoying sports, outdoor activities, shopping, nightlife, local cuisine, local breweries, and distilleries.

Kansas City Professional Sports Teams:

Kansas City is home to several professional sports teams that allow for numerous games to attend throughout the year. Below is a list of what Kansas City has to offer sports enthusiasts.

  • Kansas City Chiefs (NFL): Championships: Super Bowl IV (1969), Super Bowl LIV (2019) Super Bowl LVII (2022) Super Bowl LVIII (2023)
  • Sporting Kansas City (MLS): MLS Cup (2000, 2013)
  • Kansas City Royals (MLB): World Series Champions (1985, 2015)
  • Kansas City Current (NWSL)Women’s Professional Soccer
  • Kansas City Mavericks (ECHL) Ice Hockey

Cultural Attractions and Landmarks 

Kansas City is home to a wealth of cultural attractions, including historic architecture, museums, and art galleries. From performing arts to live music events, Kansas City’s cultural scene is vibrant and diverse, contributing to the city’s overall appeal as a great place to live.

Union Station: Built in 1914, Union Station is an iconic Beaux-Arts building known for its grand architecture and historical significance. It once served as a major transportation hub, and today, it houses museums, theaters, restaurants, and science exhibits, making it a cultural and historical centerpiece of Kansas City.

Country Club Plaza: Country Club Plaza is an open-air shopping and dining destination in the heart of Kansas City. You will not feel like you are anywhere in the Midwest walking the beautiful streets of the Plaza. The Country Club Plaza is a romantic outdoor museum of Spanish architecture, European art, statues, and fountains. It is home to over 120 Shops and eateries with a one-of-a-kind curated mix of national and local retailers and restaurants, over 50 unique to Kansas City.

Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art: Not only an art museum but also an architectural gem, the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art features neoclassical and modernist elements. It houses an extensive collection of art from various periods and cultures, and its iconic “Shuttlecocks” sculptures on the lawn are a recognizable symbol of the museum.

National World War I Museum and Memorial: This impressive memorial and museum is dedicated to honoring the memory of those who served in World War I. It features a striking tower that offers panoramic views of the city, as well as a comprehensive collection of artifacts and exhibits related to the war.

Dining and Culinary Experience in Kansas City

Kansas City’s culinary scene is diverse and delectable, offering a wide range of dining experiences and cuisines. The city is best known for its barbecue, which has earned its place on the map as one of the go-to destinations for barbecue lovers. Kansas City’s culinary experience reflects its dynamic and evolving gastronomic landscape, making it a great place for food enthusiasts. While there are too many great restaurants to list, here is a short list of the best restaurant winners based on the 2023 Best of KC from KC Magazine. Feel free to click on each link to explore more about each Best of KC Magazine Winner.

Outdoor Adventure:

Lake Jacomo: A local favorite, spans over 970 acres and is a haven for fishing, sailing, and kayaking enthusiasts. Enjoy watching sailboats glide across the water. Lake Jacomo offers a full-service marina with boat rentals and has 3 boat ramps for easy access. With its serene setting and abundant wildlife, it’s an ideal spot for those seeking a tranquil escape. The maximum horsepower for motorboats on Lake Jacomo is 25 horsepower. Sailboats and pontoons are limited to 40 horsepower.

Longview Lake: Boasting a 930-acre stretch of water. Its wide-open spaces are perfect for jet skiing, wakeboarding, and enjoying scenic picnics at the 14 picnic shelters by the water’s edge. Longview Lake has a full-service marina with boat rentals and marine supplies. There is also a sandy beach for swimmers to relax and catch some rays!

Lake Shawnee: Offering a variety of outdoor activities. This charming lake, known for its scenic beauty, is a popular destination for locals and visitors alike. It features well-maintained walking and biking trails, fishing docks, and boat ramps that make it a favored spot for boating and canoeing. Along its shores, picnic areas and playgrounds make it an ideal location for family outings and gatherings.

Loose Park: With its 75 acres of lush landscape, it features a beautiful rose garden, walking trails, and a tranquil pond, making it perfect for strolls or family outings.

Kansas City Zoo & Swope Park: Kansas City’s largest park, offers a diverse range of activities. From its challenging golf courses to the Kansas City Zoo and extensive network of hiking and biking trails, there’s something for everyone.

Worlds of Fun & Oceans of Fun: Worlds of Fun is one of the Midwest’s largest theme parks with 325 acres of roller coasters, family rides, and 5 theme parks —Africa, Americana, Europa, the Orient, and Scandinavia. Next door, Oceans of Fun is a 64-acre tropically themed water park that has water slides for thrill seekers as well as smaller slides, a lazy river, and wave pools for children.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Kansas City offers a unique blend of history, affordability, recreational activities, and culinary delights, making it a great place to live. The city’s economic stability, affordable cost of living, and low traffic contributes to a comfortable lifestyle. Whether you’re a sports enthusiast, a lover of art and culture, or a foodie, Kansas City is a good place to live. The city’s thriving job market and its diverse economy, with a range of industries, provide ample employment opportunities. Additionally, the central location of Kansas City and the new airport makes travel convenient to any part of the country. If you’re looking for a vibrant and welcoming community to call home, Kansas City is worth considering. So, pack your bags and start your new chapter in this wonderful city.