Kansas City, Kansas’s unique blend of Midwestern charm and metropolitan convenience makes it a fascinating place to call home. From mouth-watering barbecue joints to innovative farm-to-table restaurants, Kansas City’s culinary scene offers a vibrant lifestyle that appeals to residents. But is Kansas City a great place to live? While the city offers a lively mix of jazz clubs and major league sporting events, it also faces its fair share of challenges. In this Redfin article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of living in Kansas City to help you decide if it’s right for you.
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Basic information about Kansas City
| Median home sales price | $216,000 |
| average monthly rent | $1,020 |
| walk score | 32/100 |
| traffic score | 19/100 |
| bike score | 28/100 |
1. Pros: Lively Jazz Club
Kansas City is known for its rich jazz heritage, and numerous clubs and venues keep this tradition alive. For example, the legendary Blue Room at historic 18th Street and the Vine District regularly hosts top musicians, providing unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast or a casual listener, the vibrant jazz scene offers endless opportunities to immerse yourself in live performances and rhythmic jams.
2. Disadvantages: Few public transportation options
Public transportation options are particularly sparse in Kansas City, with a transit score of 19, indicating limited accessibility. For example, the bus network has limited coverage and frequency, often resulting in long waiting times and inconvenience to commuters. Additionally, the lack of alternative transportation options, such as light rail or wide bike lanes, further exacerbates the challenge of getting around the city efficiently without a car.
3. Advantages: Affordable living expenses
Kansas City is known for its affordable cost of living, which is a significant advantage for residents. With a median home sale price of $216,000 and an average monthly rent of $1,020, home prices are significantly lower compared to other major cities, making housing and rental options more accessible. Additionally, everyday expenses such as groceries and utilities are more affordable, further increasing residents’ ability to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without spending too much.
4. Accompanied by: prone to tornadoes
Kansas City is located in a tornado-prone area, causing great concern among residents. During tornado season, which is typically between spring and early summer, the city is at higher risk for severe weather events. Although precautions and emergency preparedness measures are in place, the threat of tornadoes can be a daunting factor for those considering living in the area.
5. Pro: Major professional sports teams
Kansas City is home to many Major League Baseball sports teams, adding excitement and entertainment to the city’s culture. For example, residents can cheer on the football team the Kansas City Chiefs, the baseball team the Kansas City Royals, and the football team Sporting Kansas City. These teams not only provide exciting competition but also foster a sense of community pride among residents.
6. Cons: Limited nightlife options
While Kansas City has plenty to do during the day, its nightlife options are limited. There aren’t as many bars, clubs or late-night entertainment venues as there are in big cities. This may be a drawback for younger residents or those who enjoy a vibrant nightlife scene. Most nightlife activity is concentrated in nearby Kansas City, Missouri, requiring a short commute for those seeking evening entertainment.
7. Pros: Midwestern hospitality
Kansas City embodies Midwestern hospitality, creating a friendly and welcoming environment for its residents. From chance encounters at local attractions to community events like the Plaza Art Fair, people here embrace genuine friendships. This welcoming atmosphere fosters connections and makes living in Kansas City feel like part of a tight-knit community.
8. Cons: Limited premium shopping
For those who like upscale shopping, Kansas City may be a bit of a letdown. The city lacks a variety of luxury retail stores and high-end shopping malls. While there are many local shops and boutiques, residents often have to travel to nearby cities for a wider range of high-end brands. This may be an inconvenience for those who prefer a more luxurious shopping experience.
9. Pros: BBQ food is great
Kansas City is famous for its barbecue cuisine, which is a big draw for foodies. The city is home to many famous barbecue restaurants, such as Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que and Gates Bar-BQ. These restaurants offer unique and delicious dining experiences that are hard to find elsewhere.
10. Cons: No mountains or beaches
Living in Kansas City means missing out on the majestic scenery of the major mountain ranges and the tranquility of nearby beaches. Residents cannot easily engage in outdoor activities, such as hiking in the mountains or relaxing on the beach. While the city offers other recreational opportunities, the lack of mountains and beaches may disappoint those seeking adventure or relaxation in natural settings.
method: Median home sales price and average monthly rent data come from Red Fin Information Center. Walk score, transit score, and bike score data come from walk score.
