Kansas City is a city of neighborhoods. On the Missouri side alone you can choose between converted warehouse lofts, tree-lined streets of 1920s bungalows, and quiet cul-de-sacs north of the river, often within a 15-minute drive of each other. If you are moving to Kansas City, the neighborhood you choose will shape your commute, your weekends and your budget more than almost anything else. Here are the areas people ask about most, and who each one suits.
Crossroads and the River Market: Urban Lofts
The Crossroads Arts District is packed with galleries, coffee shops and restaurants in old warehouse buildings, and First Fridays bring crowds every month. Just north, the River Market sits along the streetcar line with the City Market at its center. Both areas are mostly apartments and lofts, which means elevator reservations, loading zones and street parking are part of every move. They suit young professionals and anyone who wants to walk to dinner.
Westport and Midtown: Historic and Lively
Westport is one of the city's oldest districts and its best-known nightlife area, surrounded by Midtown streets of older homes and apartment buildings. Nearby Hyde Park and the area around the Country Club Plaza offer historic houses and a short trip to the Plaza's shops and fountains. Expect older homes with narrow stairs and limited parking, and great access to the center of the city.
Brookside and Waldo: Classic Neighborhood Living
South of the Plaza, Brookside and Waldo are known for their small commercial strips, local shops and blocks of brick and stone homes from the early 1900s. They are popular with families who want character, walkability and a strong neighborhood feel. Many homes have tight staircases and detached garages, so moving day takes some planning.
North Kansas City and the Northland: Space and Easy Access
Across the Missouri River, North Kansas City is a small, walkable city of its own, and the Northland beyond it, including Gladstone, Parkville, Riverside and Liberty, offers newer homes, larger yards and quick access to downtown and the airport. It is a strong fit for families and commuters who want more space. Our crews are based right here in North Kansas City. Explore our Gladstone movers, Parkville movers and Liberty movers pages for more on these areas.
Johnson County Suburbs: Schools and Space
On the Kansas side, Overland Park, Leawood, Olathe and Lenexa draw families with well-regarded school districts, large parks and newer housing. Commutes into downtown Kansas City are longer, but many residents work in the suburbs themselves. If you are weighing the suburbs, our guide to the best suburbs of Kansas City goes deeper.
How to Choose
Start with your daily routine. Map your commute at rush hour, visit at night and on a weekend, and check parking and building rules if you are looking at apartments. Decide how much space you need versus how much you want to walk. Then line up your move early, since apartment buildings downtown often require move times to be reserved weeks ahead.
Coming from out of state? Read our guide to moving to Kansas City for cost of living and planning tips.
Moving Into Your New Neighborhood
Wherever you land, The Dudes Moving Co. knows the streets, the stairs and the building rules. Our apartment movers handle loft and high-rise moves downtown, and our Kansas City movers cover every neighborhood in the metro. Request a free quote or call (816) 433-2929.
