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When people think of Kansas City, they often picture its vibrant downtown, known for its fountains, barbecue, and jazz music, but the true essence of living in Kansas City extends beyond the urban core. The suburbs of Kansas City are diverse residential areas that offer a quieter, more relaxed lifestyle while still providing easy access to the city’s thriving amenities. These KC suburbs are spread across various parts of the metropolitan area, each with its own unique character and appeal.
In this ApartmentGuide article, we’ll explore some of the most notable Kansas City suburbs—from historic towns to bustling modern communities—highlighting key aspects such as population, average rent, and what makes each area stand out. Whether you’re searching for the perfect apartment in Kansas City or curious about the different Kansas City neighborhoods, let’s discover the best parts of KC to call home.
Cost of living in Kansas City
Before we dive into the top Kansas City suburbs, let’s cover how much it costs to live in Kansas City. The overall cost of living in Kansas City is about 7% lower than the national average. Housing plays a significant role in this, with the median sale price for a home in Kansas City at around $290,000, which is 33% lower than the national average of $432,657. Rent follows a similar trend, with the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Kansas City at $1,336, also about 12% lower than the national average of $1,514.
While some suburbs around Kansas City offer more affordable options, others may provide higher-end, luxury living opportunities. Here, we’ll explore a range of top suburbs, providing different lifestyle and housing opportunities depending on your budget and preferences.
If you’re looking for more specific rental insights, check out our guides on the 9 Most Affordable Neighborhoods in Kansas City, MO for Renters in 2024 and the 9 Most Expensive Neighborhoods in Kansas City, MO to Rent in 2024.
1. Overland Park
Known for: High-end shopping, business hubs, and parks
Overland Park is one of Kansas City’s largest and most prominent suburbs, known for its sprawling parks, large retail centers, and thriving business districts. It has a blend of suburban convenience and access to nature, with several parks and recreational areas. Overland Park offers a balance of modern development and suburban charm.
Population: 200,000
Median home sale price: $483,750
Overland Park transportation scores: Walk Score 35, Bike Score 46, Transit Score 16
Apartments for rent in Overland Park, KS | Houses for rent in Overland Park, KS | Homes for sale in Overland Park, KS
2. Lee’s Summit
Known for: Small-town charm, vibrant community, and proximity to Kansas City
Lee’s Summit offers a balance of historic charm and modern amenities. With a walkable downtown full of shops and restaurants, this suburb is ideal for residents looking for small-town living with quick access to Kansas City. Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy the nearby lakes and parks, while the lively community atmosphere is marked by local events.
Population: 100,000
Median home sale price: $400,000
Lee’s Summit transportation scores: Walk Score 20, Bike Score 29
Apartments for rent in Lee’s Summit, MO | Houses for rent in Lee’s Summit, MO | Homes for sale in Lee’s Summit, MO
3. Liberty
Known for: Historic district, downtown charm, and outdoor spaces
Liberty is a historic suburb with a strong sense of tradition. Its picturesque downtown area is filled with charming shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. With plenty of parks and outdoor spaces, Liberty appeals to those seeking a quieter, suburban lifestyle while still being close to Kansas City.
Population: 32,000
Median home sale price: $347,500
Liberty transportation scores: Walk Score 23, Bike Score 25
Apartments for rent in Liberty, MO | Houses for rent in Liberty, MO | Homes for sale in Liberty, MO
4. Olathe
Known for: New developments, strong community, and parks
Olathe is a fast-growing suburb known for its spacious new homes, good schools, and large community parks. It has become a hub for professionals looking to move out of the city and into a quieter, suburban area. Olathe’s large retail centers and recreational areas make it a well-rounded suburb for residents of all ages.
Population: 140,000
Median home sale price: $425,500
Olathe transportation scores: Walk Score 30, Bike Score 50, Transit Score 10
Apartments for rent in Olathe, KS | Houses for rent in Olathe, KS | Homes for sale in Olathe, KS
5. Blue Springs
Known for: Quiet neighborhoods, parks, and community vibe
Blue Springs is a quiet, community-oriented suburb with excellent parks, schools, and outdoor spaces. The nearby Lake Jacomo offers fishing, boating, and camping opportunities, and the small-town atmosphere attracts residents seeking a slower pace of life with easy access to Kansas City’s amenities.
Population: 56,000
Median home sale price: $330,000
Blue Springs transportation scores: Walk Score 25, Bike Score 31
Apartments for rent in Blue Springs, MO | Houses for rent in Blue Springs, MO | Homes for sale in Blue Springs, MO
6. Parkville
Known for: Small-town charm, historic downtown, and natural beauty
Parkville is a picturesque suburb located northwest of Kansas City, known for its charming downtown area, which offers antique shops, cafes, and a historic feel. Its proximity to the Missouri River provides ample opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking and fishing. Parkville is an ideal spot for those who prefer a quieter, small-town vibe while still being near the city.
Population: 7,100
Median home sale price: $614,300
Parkville transportation scores: Walk Score 51, Bike Score 36
Apartments for rent in Parkville, MO | Houses for rent in Parkville, MO | Homes for sale in Parkville, MO
7. Prairie Village
Known for: Tree-lined streets, boutique shops, and suburban lifestyle
Located just south of Kansas City, Prairie Village is a highly desirable suburb offering a mix of modern amenities and suburban comfort. The area is known for its tree-lined streets, beautiful homes, and an array of local boutique shops and restaurants. Prairie Village combines charm with convenience, providing a suburban feel while being close to downtown Kansas City.
Population: 21,700
Median home sale price: $518,500
Prairie Village transportation scores: Walk Score 42, Bike Score 37
Apartments for rent in Prairie Village, KS | Houses for rent in Prairie Village, KS | Homes for sale in Prairie Village, KS
8. Lenexa
Known for: Expanding developments, business districts, and active community
Lenexa is a growing suburb offering a strong sense of community, with new developments springing up to meet increasing demand. The suburb is home to a number of large businesses and commercial centers, making it a popular choice for professionals. Lenexa’s active community hosts events, farmers’ markets, and festivals year-round, creating a vibrant suburban experience.
Population: 55,000
Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $1,350
Median home sale price: $527,500
Lenexa transportation scores: Walk Score 33, Bike Score 44
Apartments for rent in Lenexa, KS | Houses for rent in Lenexa, KS | Homes for sale in Lenexa, KS
Methodology: The suburbs included in this list were selected based on their overall popularity, determined by search trends and housing demand in the Kansas City area. Average rent and home sale price data were sourced from Redfin and Rent.com as of October 2024. Transportation data, including Walk Scores, Bike Scores, and Transit Scores, was sourced from Walk Score.