Moving to Kansas City? Here’s What Makes It So Special
If you’re moving to Kansas City or at least thinking about it, then you’re not alone! Whether you're relocating for a job, looking for a fresh start, or searching for the perfect place to buy a home, let me be the first to say—you’re going to love it here!
I know you’re going to love it, because I know firsthand what it’s like to take the leap. Over 25 years ago, I moved to Kansas City from Michigan without ever visiting first (bold, I know!), and I fell in love instantly. With the slower pace of life, the perfect blend of city and country living, and the incredible people, Kansas City just has a way of making you stay! So, what makes Kansas City feel like home for so many? Here’s what you need to know before making the move!
The Best of Both Worlds: City & Country Living
One of the reasons I fell in love with living in Kansas City is its unique balance of urban convenience and open, scenic spaces. And something that you may not know if you’re moving to Kansas City is that it's actually split between two states, Kansas and Missouri. While both sides have their own charm, Kansas City, Missouri, is the heart of the metro area and where you’ll find downtown Kansas City, full of culture, nightlife, and a thriving real estate market.
The surrounding suburbs—like Overland Park, Lee’s Summit, Liberty, and Olathe—offer beautiful Kansas City real estate with great schools, spacious lots, and a welcoming community feel. If you’re drawn to the city vibe or wanting the best of suburban living, there’s a perfect neighborhood waiting for you.
Affordable Living & A Strong Housing Market
One of the biggest reasons people are moving to Kansas City is the affordable cost of living! Unlike bigger metro areas, you can actually buy a home here without blowing your budget.
Housing Market Perks:
Lower home prices compared to the national average.
Diverse options—from historic homes and new builds to condos and luxury estates.
Lower property taxes than many other major cities.
As a real estate expert, I specialize in helping families relocate, build, and buy their dream homes in Kansas City. Whether you're looking for downtown Kansas City condos or a quiet suburban retreat, there are plenty of Kansas City homes for sale to fit your lifestyle and budget.
A City That Loves Its Sports
If you love sports, you’re in the right place! Kansas City has one of the most passionate fan bases in the country. The energy here is contagious, and no matter where you move, you’ll see KC pride everywhere! Need a quick crash-course in Kansas City teams?
Kansas City Chiefs – Game days at Arrowhead Stadium are next-level. Whether you're a die-hard football fan or just love tailgating, Chiefs Kingdom is a community like no other!
Kansas City Royals – Watching a summer baseball game at Kauffman Stadium (with a KC BBQ in hand, of course) is a must!
Sporting KC & KC Current – Soccer has taken off in Kansas City, with both the MLS and NWSL teams bringing fans together.
This city doesn’t just support its teams—it rallies behind them. If you love an electric sports atmosphere, you’ll fit right in!
Fun Things to Do in Kansas City (Beyond BBQ!)
Yes, Kansas City is famous for its barbecue, but there’s so much more to explore! Kansas City is a hub for music, art, and history. Did you know it’s famous for its jazz scene? Whether you’re exploring the American Jazz Museum, catching live music at a local venue, or browsing the galleries in downtown Kansas City, there’s always something happening.
Culture & Entertainment
The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art – A must-see (and it’s free)!
The Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts – Stunning venue for ballet, opera, and concerts.
Downtown Kansas City nightlife – Bars, live music, and craft breweries galore!
Outdoor Adventures
Loose Park – Perfect for walks, picnics, and taking in the fall colors.
The Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium – A family favorite!
Missouri Riverfront Trails – Great for biking, jogging, or just enjoying the scenery.
Foodie Scene
Barbecue – You must try Joe’s KC, Q39, and Arthur Bryant’s.
Farm-to-table restaurants – KC has an amazing food scene!
City Market – A historic farmer’s market packed with fresh produce, baked goods, and global flavors!
If you’re looking for fun things to do in Kansas City, I can promise that you’ll never run out of options!
A Great Place to Raise a Family
If you’re moving to Kansas City and you have kids, no worries! There are so many fun things to do in Kansas City with kids and you’ll love how family-friendly KC is!
Top Kid-Friendly Spots:
Science City at Union Station – Hands-on learning and interactive exhibits.
Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium – Perfect for a weekend adventure with the family.
Legoland Discovery Center – A Lego-lover’s dream!
Worlds of Fun & Oceans of Fun – Roller coasters + water park fun = best summer ever.
Kansas City suburbs also have top-rated schools, safe neighborhoods, and plenty of parks, making it a fantastic place to raise a family.
Mild Winters, Gorgeous Seasons & (Almost) No Traffic
Coming from Michigan, I was pleasantly surprised by Kansas City winters—they’re much milder (loved this for me)! We do get some snow and the occasional ice storm (shhh!), but overall, you can enjoy all four seasons without extreme cold, which means you get to enjoy outdoor activities year-round!
Let’s talk traffic. One of the biggest perks of living in Kansas City is that we don’t have the kind of gridlock traffic you see in bigger cities. Sure, we have the typical morning and evening rush hour, but otherwise, commuting here is pretty much a breeze.
A Thriving Job Market & Entrepreneurial Spirit
Kansas City has a high employment rate, with major industries including healthcare, tech, finance, and engineering. It’s home to companies like Cerner, Hallmark, Garmin, and a growing number of startups.
But beyond traditional employment, Kansas City is also a fantastic place for entrepreneurs. If you’re thinking about moving to Kansas City to start a new career or open your own business, you’ll find a welcoming and supportive community that encourages innovation!
What to Buy in Kansas City When You Move
If you’re relocating, you might be wondering what to buy in Kansas City in terms of real estate and home options. The city offers a diverse selection of homes, with historic properties in downtown Kansas City, new construction in growing suburbs, and spacious homes with land just outside the metro area.
Top Kansas City Real Estate Options to Consider:
Historic Homes – Kansas City has stunning early 1900s homes with unique architectural details, especially in neighborhoods like Hyde Park and Brookside.
New Builds – If modern amenities and energy-efficient homes are a priority, look at Kansas City homes for sale in areas like Lee’s Summit, Overland Park, or Olathe.
Luxury Living – For those looking for high-end finishes and large estates, neighborhoods like Mission Hills offer luxury homes in prime locations.
Investment Properties – Kansas City is a great market for rental properties, making it an ideal place to buy a second home or an Airbnb investment.
No matter what you're looking for, Kansas City real estate has a variety of options to fit every lifestyle and budget!
Ready to Make Kansas City Home?
There’s a reason why people come to Kansas City and never leave. It’s affordable, welcoming, and filled with amazing opportunities to build a life you love.
If you’re moving to Kansas City and ready to start your journey, Homes by Cheryl Bowman would love to help you find the perfect home. Whether you’re looking for Kansas City real estate, exploring new construction, or searching for the best neighborhoods, I’m here to make your move seamless. Reach out today and let's work together to find a home that fits your needs and makes you fall in love with Kansas City, just like I did!
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