Kansas City, straddling both Missouri and and Kansas, is surrounded by beautiful landscapes, quaint towns, and lively suburbs. If you’re drawn to the Midwestern appeal of the city, but don’t want to live within its borders, here are 8 great cities to consider.
The best cities near Kansas City
- Overland Park, KS
- Independence, MO
- Lee’s Summit, MO
- Olathe, KS
- Blue Springs, MO
- Shawnee, KS
- Lenexa, KS
1. Overland Park, KS
- Driving distance from Kansas City: 11.8 miles
- Population: 197,726 (2022)
- Median rent: $1,676, according to July 2024 rent research
- Best for: Families and professionals seeking top-rated schools and a safe community
- Attractions: Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead, Overland Park Arboretum and Botanical Gardens, Museum at Prairiefire
Why Overland Park is a great place to live
Overland Park school districts, including Blue Valley and Shawnee Mission, are some of the best in the area. The city is known for its family-friendly neighborhoods, such as Oak Park, Wycliff, and Regency Park. Overland Park offers various housing options, from post-World War II homes to modern constructions.
2. Independence, MO
- Driving distance from Kansas City: 12.8 miles
- Population: 121,202 (2022)
- Median rent: $1,235, according to July 2024 rent research
- Best for: History enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers
- Attractions: Harry S. Truman Presidential Library and Museum, National Frontier Trails Museum, Vaile Mansion
Why Independence is a great place to live
Independence is full of American history. It is the hometown of President Harry S. Truman and the starting point of the Oregon, California, and Santa Fe Trails. The beautifully restored Vaile Mansion and the engaging National Frontier Trails Museum exhibits show the city’s commitment to preserving its heritage. Nature lovers will enjoy exploring the Little Blue Trace Trail and the historic Independence Square.
3. Lee’s Summit, MO
- Driving distance from Kansas City: 22.1 miles
- Median rent: $1,620, according to July 2024 rent research
- Best for: Young professionals and families seeking a balance of urban amenities and small-town charm
- Attractions: Missouri Town 1855, Summit Art Gallery, Fringe Beerworks
Why Lee’s Summit is a great place to live
Lee’s Summit offers the perfect blend of historic charm and modern convenience. The award-winning downtown area features unique shops, local art galleries like Summit Art Gallery, and popular breweries like Fringe Beerworks. Residents can return to Missouri Town 1855, a living history museum, or enjoy the outdoors at Legacy Park, which offers an amphitheater, farmers market, and a 22-acre lake.
4. Olathe, KS
- Driving distance from Kansas City: 22.3 miles
- Population: 145,616 (2022)
- Median rent: $1,701, according to July 2024 rent research
- Best for: Outdoor enthusiasts and families seeking excellent schools
- Attractions: Lake Olathe, Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop & Farm Historic Site, Kansas City Automotive Museum
Why Olathe is a great place to live
Olathe is known for its top-notch schools, including the highly-rated Olathe Public Schools and the Johnson County Community College. The city is full of opportunities to get outside, with Lake Olathe a popular spot for swimming, fishing, and boating. History buffs will enjoy visiting the Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop & Farm Historic Site, while car enthusiasts can explore the Kansas City Automotive Museum.
5. Blue Springs, MO
- Driving distance from Kansas City: 18.9 miles
- Population: 59,518 (2022)
- Median rent: $1,650, according to July 2024 rent research
- Best for: Families and outdoor lovers
- Attractions: Lake Remembrance, Burr Oak Woods Conservation Area, Blue Springs Fieldhouse
Why Blue Springs is a great place to live
Blue Springs is a family-friendly community with a strong focus on the outdoors. The city has numerous parks and trails, including the scenic Lake Remembrance and the expansive Burr Oak Woods Conservation Area. The state-of-the-art Blue Springs Fieldhouse offers a variety of sports and fitness programs for all ages.
6. Shawnee, KS
- Driving distance from Kansas City: 10.5 miles
- Population: 69,198 (2022)
- Median rent: $1,878 according to July 2024 rent research
- Best for: Craft beer enthusiasts and nature lovers
- Attractions: Shawnee Mission Park, Johnson County Museum, Transport Brewery
Why Shawnee is a great place to live
Shawnee is a lively community with a thriving craft beer scene, home to popular breweries like Transport Brewery and Servaes Brewing Company. The city also boasts many outdoor attractions, including the sprawling Shawnee Mission Park, which offers hiking trails, a lake, and an off-leash dog area. The Johnson County Museum provides an engaging look at the area’s history with interactive exhibits and educational programs.
7. Lenexa, KS
- Driving distance from Kansas City: 14.9 miles
- Population: 58,617 (2022)
- Median rent: $1,603, according to July 2024 rent research
- Best for: Foodies and shoppers
- Attractions: Lenexa Public Market, Sar-Ko-Par Trails Park, Lenexa Rec Center
Why Lenexa is a great place to live
Lenexa is a food lover’s paradise, with the Lenexa Public Market serving as a hub for local artisanal food vendors and unique dining experiences. The city’s commitment to green spaces is evident in the beautiful Sar-Ko-Par Trails Park, which features walking trails, a rose garden, and a unique “Leapin’ Lizards” play area. The state-of-the-art Lenexa Rec Center offers a wide range of fitness classes and recreational activities for residents of all ages.
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