When people think of Kansas City, they think of great food and pro sports. But there’s another side of the Fountain City that locals know and love.
Exploring Country Club Plaza for great shopping deals and the city’s cultural scene, such as the Nelson Atkins Museum, rate high on visitors’ must-see lists. But when considering a move to Kansas City, you’ll want to research deeper, to find the best area for you to live.
The most popular Kansas City neighborhoods
What’s the key to finding the perfect neighborhood? Here’s a rundown on eight of the most popular. Then, you can take our Kansas City neighborhood quiz to see where you’d like to hang your Royals’ hat.
River Market
Located along the Missouri River, River Market offers a vibrant feel combined with a quaint urban village atmosphere. From hikes along the river to boating opportunities, River Market is home to a network of public parks.
Residents enjoy their choice of international cuisine, as well as great shopping, such as the City Market farmers market. Locals enjoy access to public transportation, including the Kansas City streetcar, which serves the downtown area.
Rent for a one-bedroom apartment is about $1,720 a month.
Crossroads
Creativity is the name of the game in the Crossroads neighborhood. The area near downtown Kansas City is home to art galleries, boutique shops and businesses that encourage eclectic thinking. The Kansas City Symphony and Kauffman Performing Arts Center call the neighborhood home.
With craft breweries, wine tasting rooms, a world-renowned chocolatier and amazing restaurants, Crossroads is home to several fun adventures.
A one-bedroom apartment will cost about $1,765 a month.
Plaza Westport
With classic outdoor shopping nearby at Country Club Plaza, the Plaza Westport neighborhood features unique shops, boutiques and vintage retail outlets. Residents enjoy hanging out with friends at area clubs and bars at night and on the weekends.
With a variety of dining options, you can sample contemporary barbecue one night and fine dining the next. With history tossed in, Plaza Westport offers an eclectic area to call home.
As you look for a new home, rent for a one-bedroom apartment costs around $1,415 per month.
Union Hill
Overlooking the Crown Center, and within walking distance to the National World War I Museum and Memorial, Union Hill is a 16-block neighborhood near downtown Kansas City. Union Hill is near businesses and restaurants, as well as entertainment venues, such as Kauffman Performing Arts Center. The mixed-use neighborhood features a good share of parks and walking areas.
Rent for a one-bedroom apartment costs about $1,395 a month.
Northland
Covering an area north of the Missouri River that spans downtown Kansas City and Kansas City International airport, the Northland area encompasses a variety of neighborhoods. With a mix of local and national restaurant chains, dining options seem endless.
Enjoy a shopping spree at the outdoor Zona Rosa town center, as well as smaller shopping centers. Public parks nature trails are also abundant in the area. The Worlds of Fun amusement park is also in this neighborhood.
Rent in the Northland for a one-bedroom apartment averages about $1,090 per month.
Country Club Plaza
Source: The Locarno
The Country Club Plaza neighborhood consists of 15 blocks that encompass the nation’s first major outdoor shopping center. Designed with a Spanish mission influence, the shopping center offers a mix of high-end stores and mid-priced outlets.
The neighborhood is also home to a good variety of restaurants. With a walking trail, botanical garden, and the Nelson Atkins Museum nearby, the area offers excellent recreational and cultural opportunities.
Rent for a one-bedroom apartment costs about $968 a month.
Quality Hill
One of Kansas City’s oldest neighborhoods, Quality Hill features an area that overlooks the Missouri River on a 200-foot bluff. Filled with tree-lined streets and historic buildings, Quality Hill is a short distance from downtown.
Locals here enjoy many restaurants and attractions, such as the central branch of the library and the Power and Light District.
Finding a one-bedroom apartment will cost about $863 a month.
Independence
The hometown of former President Harry S. Truman, Independence is a history buff’s paradise. The presidential museum, historic downtown and state park are all within a short drive.
With a mix of indoor and outdoor shopping centers, Independence features several national retail outlets. Dining options include local eateries, as well as chain restaurants. With walking trails, golf courses, community theaters and historical attractions, families enjoy spending time in the area.
Rent for a one-bedroom apartment averages about $840 per month.
Find the best Kansas City neighborhood for you
Still undecided about your Kansas City neighborhood? Just answer a few questions and we’ll tell you!
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