Best Places to Live in Kansas City

Best Places to Live in Kansas City (2025) — Top Neighborhoods & Suburbs for Families, Young Professionals & Retirees

If you’re searching for the best places to live in Kansas City, whether you're relocating, retiring, or looking for a safe, family-friendly
neighborhood, this guide breaks down the top Kansas City neighborhoods and suburbs in 2025. With strong schools, walkable communities, and thriving urban areas, Kansas City has something for everyone.

Whether you're drawn to historic homes, vibrant downtown living, or quiet suburban life, here are the most desirable areas to live in Kansas City, MO and Kansas City, KS.

1. Brookside – Best Historic Neighborhood in Kansas City

-Location: South of the Country Club Plaza (KC, MO)

-Why it's great: Brookside is one of the most charming and walkable neighborhoods in Kansas City, known for its historic architecture, community events, boutique shopping, and tree-lined streets.

-Best for: Homebuyers looking for a historic Kansas City neighborhood with strong community ties and easy access to parks, shops, and cafes.
Keywords: Brookside Kansas City homes, walkable neighborhoods KC, historic neighborhoods Kansas City

2. River Market – Best Area for Urban Living in Kansas City

-Location: North of Downtown KC (Missouri side)

-Why it's great: River Market offers vibrant city living with loft-style apartments, easy access to the KC Streetcar, and one of the best farmers markets in the Midwest. It’s perfect for people who love walkability and nightlife.

-Best for: Young professionals, digital nomads, and renters looking for a trendy, central Kansas City neighborhood.
Keywords: downtown Kansas City apartments, urban lofts in Kansas City, River Market KC

3. Country Club Plaza / West Plaza – Best for Shopping and Dining

-Location: Central Kansas City, MO

-Why it's great: This area is famous for high-end shopping, elegant architecture, and fine dining. It's one of the most iconic areas to live in Kansas City.

-Best for: Professionals and couples seeking upscale living in Kansas City close to cultural attractions and nightlife.
-Keywords: luxury living in Kansas City, Plaza Kansas City real estate, upscale neighborhoods in KC

4. Waldo – Best Affordable Neighborhood in Kansas City

-Location: South of Brookside (KC, MO)

-Why it's great: Waldo is known for its affordable homes, walkable streets, and strong community feel. It’s a favorite for first-time buyers and young families.

-Best for: Budget-conscious buyers who want to live in a safe and friendly Kansas City neighborhood.
-Keywords: affordable homes Kansas City, first-time homebuyer neighborhoods KC, Waldo Kansas City

5. Leawood – Best Kansas City Suburb for Luxury Living

-Location: Kansas side, south of Overland Park

-Why it's great: Leawood offers beautiful homes, top-rated schools, and a safe, clean environment. It's one of the most sought-after Kansas City suburbs.

-Best for: Families and retirees looking for high-end suburban living near Kansas City.
-Keywords: Leawood KS homes for sale, best Kansas City suburbs, luxury real estate Kansas City

6. Overland Park – Best All-Around Suburb in Kansas City Metro

-Location: Southwest of Kansas City (KS side)

-Why it's great: Regularly ranked as one of the best suburbs in America, Overland Park features excellent public schools, a booming job market, and safe neighborhoods.

-Best for: Families and professionals who want suburban living with easy access to downtown Kansas City.
Keywords: top-rated schools in Kansas City, Overland Park real estate, family-friendly suburbs KC

7. North Kansas City – Best Up-and-Coming Neighborhood
-Location: Just north of downtown (MO side)

-Why it's great: North Kansas City (NKC) is becoming one of the best neighborhoods for first-time buyers and creatives. It has affordable homes, breweries, parks, and a growing small business scene.

-Best for: Young buyers, remote workers, and creatives looking for affordable and artsy Kansas City living.
Keywords: North Kansas City real estate, KC neighborhoods with character, affordable KC homes

8. Prairie Village – Best Suburb for Quiet, Walkable Living
-Location: Kansas side, near Leawood and Mission Hills

-Why it's great: Prairie Village is known for peaceful streets, classic mid-century homes, and strong schools. It has a small-town feel while being close to the city.

-Best for: Retirees, professionals, and families seeking a quiet Kansas City suburb with charm.
Keywords: Prairie Village homes for sale, quiet neighborhoods near Kansas City, mid-century homes KC

Final Thoughts: Where Should You Live in Kansas City?
Whether you're looking for the safest Kansas City neighborhoods, top-rated school districts, or best walkable areas to live in KC, the city and surrounding suburbs offer options for every lifestyle and budget. From urban lofts in River Market to family-friendly homes in Overland Park, there's no shortage of great places to call home.

Need Help Choosing the Right Kansas City Neighborhood?
If you're relocating or buying a home in the KC metro, I can help guide you through your options based on your budget, lifestyle, and priorities. Reach out today for a personalized home search or neighborhood tour!