Kansas City, Missouri, known for its affordability and rich cultural offerings, is a great place to call home. From world-class museums to delicious barbecue, this city has something for everyone. If you’re planning a move to Kansas City, consider these five safe and budget-friendly neighborhoods as potential places to call your new home.
Armour Hills
If you’re looking for a safe, family-friendly neighborhood just a stone’s throw away from the bustling city center of Kansas City, look no further than Armour Hills. This neighborhood boasts a median home purchase price of $1.4M and a median monthly rent of $1,126, making it a luxurious option for families and retirees.
Why is Armour Hills so great? Well, for starters, this area features a crime rate that is much safer than 97% of other neighborhoods in Kansas City. The area is home to several highly-rated schools, including Belinder Elementary School, Hale Cook Elementary School, and Academie Lafayette, making it a great place to raise a family. Housing options in Armour Hills include charming bungalows and traditional Tudor-style cottages.
When it comes to things to do, Armour Hills has no shortage of options. Take the kids to the playground or catch a show in the amphitheater at Arbor Villa Park. Go for a scenic jog or bike ride on the six-mile long Harry Wiggins Trolley Track Trail. Browse books, participate in fun activities, or watch films at the Kansas City Public Library’s Waldo Branch.
Start your day with a delicious breakfast from McLain’s Bakery or grab a hearty meal at District. Pour House + Kitchen. Enjoy Italian Cheese Pizza, Oriental Stir Fry, or Pesto Chicken Pasta at Governor Stumpy’s Grill House. Savor Japanese dishes like Sushi Matsu or Tuna Poke at Kabuki Sushi. Attend trivia night and drink beers on tap like Odell’s Sippin’ Pretty or KC Beer Co’s Dunkel at Bier Station. And don’t forget to treat yourself to a sweet dessert at Betty Rae’s Ice Cream with Lavender Honey, Smores, or Vegan Vanilla Ice Cream in their homemade waffle cones.
Lea Manor
Lea Manor is a neighborhood in Kansas City that offers something for everyone, and it’s easy on the wallet too! With a median home purchase price of $297,500 and a median monthly rent of $1,727, this neighborhood is perfect for singles, young professionals, families, and retirees. It’s also safer than 72% of other neighborhoods in Kansas City.
Lea Manor is located just 20 minutes away from downtown Kansas City, making it convenient for those who work in the city center. The neighborhood is also close to healthcare providers like St. Joseph Medical Center and University of Kansas Medical Center, and boasts excellent schools like Boone Elementary School and Notre Dame de Sion Grade School.
When it comes to things to do, Lea Manor has plenty to offer. Laugh until your sides hurt at open mic night or a comedy show at The Comedy Club of Kansas City. Take the family for a scenic bike ride on the Indian Creek Bike Trail. Enjoy a leisurely evening stroll at Watts Mill Park.
Try delicious Italian dishes like Lobster Ravioli, Penne Alla Marie, or Lasagna Al Forno at Jasper’s Italian Restaurant. Head to Cacao Restaurante for tasty Mexican favorites like Nopales Enchiladas or Asada Steak Tacos.
Grab a slab of ribs or the President’s Choice Tray at Gates Bar-B-Q. Enjoy The Meatball Pizza, Vegetarian Gyro, or an Asian Fried Chicken Salad at Southside Bar & Grille. Sip on craft beers and enjoy a Buckeye Burger at Ugly Joe’s. Or head to Tavern on 103rd to catch a Chiefs game and grab a cold beer.
Volker
Volker is a neighborhood in Kansas City that is perfect for singles, young professionals, families, and retirees. It’s located near the West 39th Street District and Westport District and is known for its friendly community, good walkability, and an abundance of fun things to do. With a median home purchase price of $311,000 and median monthly rent of $1,386, the neighborhood offers a great value for the cost. Crime rate in this neighborhood is also safer than 77% of other neighborhoods in Kansas City.
Volker is home to beautiful bungalows, ranches, and brick apartments that were built in the 1920s, adding to the historic charm of the neighborhood. It also boasts great schools like Gordon Parks Elementary School and Allen Village School.
When it comes to things to do, Volker has a lot to offer. Take a stroll to the Westport neighborhood to explore its variety of shops, restaurants, bakeries, bars, and entertainment all within walking distance. Head to the Hilliard Gallery on the first Friday of the month to discover vintage and eclectic artwork.
Take the kids to burn off some energy on the rope jungle gym at the 37-acre Roanoke Park. Satisfy your breakfast cravings at Donutology with a S’mores Donut and a Chai Tea Latte. Enjoy dishes like Siracha Shrimp, Crispy Pineapple Lemon Chicken, or Shanghai Famous Wonton Noodle Soup at Genghis Khan Mongolian Grill. Indulge in Smoked Beef Brisket Poutine, Q Pork Spare Ribs, or BBQ Veggie Burger at Q39. Or grab a bite at Rudy’s Tenampa Taqueria with Tostada Nachos or Chili Con Carne.
Central Business District-Downtown
If you’re a young professional looking for a neighborhood in Kansas City that’s full of budget-friendly housing options and plenty of things to do, look no further than Central Business District-Downtown. With a median home purchase price of $274,000 and median monthly rent of $2,214, it’s an excellent option for singles and young professionals. Crime rate in this neighborhood is also safer than 67% of other neighborhoods in Kansas City.
This neighborhood encompasses everything from the River Market to the trendy Crossroads Arts District and Power & Light District, making it a diverse and exciting place to live. You’ll find a variety of apartments, condos, and single-family houses, as well as a wide range of cultural and entertainment options, including KC’s top museums, dining and nightlife spots, and shopping centers.
When it comes to things to do in Central Business District-Downtown, the options are endless. Catch a performance from Kansas City Symphony or Kansas City Ballet at Kauffman Center. Visit City Market to pick up fresh produce, baked goods, and flowers. Explore the educational exhibits, planetarium, and shows at the 100-year-old Union Station. Take a beer tour and try craft brews like Jam & Berry Ale or Bob’s ’47 Oktoberfest Beer at Boulevard Brewing Company.
Discover the National WWI Museum and Memorial, which features collections and exhibits dedicated to the men and women who served. Start your day with a Matcha Latte or Cappuccino from Messenger Coffee Co. Enjoy dishes like the Pizza Philly Cheesesteak or Famous Chili Bomb Pie Pizza at Grinders Pizza. Try vegetarian favorites like a veggie burger, veggie sandwich, or the Chef’s Beauty Salad at Cafe Gratitude. Or indulge in some of the city’s best BBQ dishes like the Burnt Ends, Barbecue Chicken, or Lamb Ribs at Jack Stack Barbecue.
Mission Lake
Mission Lake is a peaceful neighborhood in Kansas City that’s perfect for families and retirees. With a median home purchase price of $249,900 and median monthly rent of $1,260, this neighborhood offers affordable housing options, ranging from townhomes to cozy ranches. Crime rate in this neighborhood is also safer than 94% of other neighborhoods in Kansas City. The area is home to top-rated schools like Martin City K-8 School and Ruskin High School, making it a great place for families to settle down and raise their children.
When it comes to things to do in Mission Lake, there is plenty to keep you entertained. Hit the links on the 18-hole course at Minor Park Golf Course. Take a hike or go mountain biking along the Blue River Parkway Trail. Challenge your kids to a game of soccer at Blue River Park & Athletic Fields.
Start your day with unique breakfast dishes like the Breakfast Banana Split or Cheesy, Cheesy, Cheesy Omelet at Caleb’s Breakfast & Lunch. Enjoy Mexican dishes like a Veggie Burrito, Shrimp Taco, or Cheese Quesadilla at Taqueria Dos De Oros. Grab a slice of New York Style pizza at Mamma Leone’s. And end the day by relaxing with a Frozen Margarita or Red Sangria on Red Bridge Barrio‘s patio.
Here’s a short story on the best neighborhoods in the area if you’re curious for more:
