Moving to Kansas City, Missouri: What to Know Before You Make the Move

Looking to find your forever city? You might find your fit smack in the middle of the US: Kansas City, Missouri. Rich with Midwestern charm and plenty to do, there’s lots to love about The Heart of America. 

Moving to Kansas City means stepping into a city with a thriving arts scene, an affordable lifestyle, and neighborhoods that truly feel like home.

Discover why people are proud to represent KC. (Whether its KC sports gear or the iconic “KC” Charlie Hustle design, you’ll literally see Kansas Citians wearing their love for the city on their sleeve. Are you next?)

Whether you’re relocating for work, school, or a fresh start, this Kansas City lifestyle guide covers everything you need to know—from seasonal weather to culture, job opportunities, suburbs, entertainment, and more.

Four Seasons in Kansas City: Weather That Shapes Daily Life

First thing you should know: Kansas City has four distinct seasons, and residents embrace them all.

Spring is perfect for park days, patio dining, Royals games, and the city’s first big wave of festivals. Summer is warm and ideal for lake days at Smithville or Longview Lake. Fall brings crisp air and colorful streets lined with red, gold, and orange foliage. Winter features occasional snow but remains manageable, with numerous indoor cultural experiences to enjoy.

Favorite outdoor spaces include:

• Loose Park: Walking paths, a lake, and a classic rose garden.
• Swope Park: Zoo, hiking, golf, and Starlight Theatre, a beloved outdoor performance venue.
• Berkley Riverfront: River views, fitness trails, and dog parks.
• Riverfront Heritage Trail:  A multi-use trail connecting historic districts with scenic viewpoints.

These seasonal changes are part of what makes moving to the Midwest so refreshing—there’s something new to enjoy every few months.

Cost of Living in Kansas City: Affordable and Flexible

The cost of living in Kansas City is one of the biggest reasons newcomers choose the area. Housing in Kansas City and many other Midwest cities—whether you prefer urban lofts or larger suburban homes—is more affordable than in many coastal or major metro markets. Groceries, utilities, transportation, and entertainment are also generally budget-friendly.

While Kansas City isn’t necessarily a walkable city, you can find free transportation easily with the streetcar and metro. 

All in all, KC’s affordability makes it an appealing option for families, students, and young professionals in Kansas City who want comfort and flexibility without sacrificing city amenities.

Best Neighborhoods in Kansas City

Looking to find your perfect KC stomping grounds? KC’s neighborhoods all offer variety, character, and convenience. Some of the most popular include:

• Country Club Plaza: Known for its Spanish-inspired architecture, fountains, shopping, and walkability. Close to UMKC and major employers.
• Westport: Historic and energetic with restaurants, bars, cafes, and renovated apartments. A top pick for those who want nightlife and convenience.
• Midtown: Tree-lined streets, historic homes, local businesses, and easy access to the rest of the metro.
• Crossroads Arts District: Loft living, studio spaces, galleries, First Fridays, and quick access to downtown offices. One of the city’s creative centers.
• River Market: Known for its international food scene, City Market farmers market, and KC Streetcar connection to downtown.
• Brookside & Waldo: Quiet, friendly neighborhoods with boutiques, bakeries, and a strong community feel.

These areas often top lists of the best neighborhoods in Kansas City thanks to their unique personalities and central locations.

Kansas City Suburbs: Space, Schools, and Community

KC’s suburbs are known for strong schools, parks, and an easygoing lifestyle. Popular choices include:

• Overland Park, KS: Highly ranked nationally, with excellent schools, green space, and diverse housing options.
• Lenexa, Shawnee & Olathe, KS: Family-friendly, affordable, and full of parks, trails, and community events.
• Lee’s Summit & Liberty, MO: Both offer charming downtowns, great school districts, and established neighborhoods. Liberty is north of the river and downtown, while Lee’s Summit is south. 
• Parkville & North Kansas City: Both areas are conveniently located just across the river from downtown. Scenic, walkable, and just a short hop to downtown… but with a small-town feel and vibrant local businesses.

These Kansas City suburbs attract families, young professionals, retirees, and students looking for a balanced lifestyle.

Higher Education + The Arts: A Creative and Academic Hub

Kansas City’s academic institutions fuel a large part of the region’s energy—and its arts community.

• University of Missouri–Kansas City (UMKC): A major research university with strong medical, law, business, and performing arts programs.
• Rockhurst University: A well-regarded Jesuit institution near the Plaza.
• Kansas City Art Institute (KCAI): A renowned art and design school whose campus borders the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art.
• Metropolitan Community College (MCC):  Multiple campuses serving students across the metro.
• Park University & William Jewell College: Scenic campuses that help shape the communities of Parkville and Liberty.

The Kansas City Arts Scene: Live Music, Iconic Artwork, & More

Craving culture? You won’t be disappointed. Although a smaller city, its arts scene rivals that of many larger metropolitan areas. Kansas City is a cultural standout, thanks to:

• The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art:  A world-class art museum famous for its sculpture garden, massive lawn, and iconic Shuttlecocks. Best of all? General admission is free. It’s the perfect way to spend a rainy day.
• The Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art: Contemporary exhibitions and installations near KCAI.
• Crossroads Arts District: Home to galleries, studios, murals, and First Fridays, one of the nation’s largest monthly art walks.
• Starlight Theatre: An outdoor venue hosting Broadway shows and concerts.
• Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts: Home to the symphony, opera, and ballet.

For anyone interested in creativity, culture, or design, moving to Kansas City means access to world-class arts without the big-city price tag.

Looking for activities that lean more towards crayons and less towards canvas? Don’t worry, there’s plenty of kid-friendly KC activities, too! 

Kansas City Job Market: Strong and Diverse

Moving to Kansas City for a job? You’re in luck.The Kansas City job market is growing across both the Missouri and Kansas sides of the metro. Top industries include:

• Healthcare and life sciences
• Tech, IT, and cybersecurity
• Engineering and architecture
• Logistics, transportation, and warehousing
• Finance, insurance, and business services
• Education and public-sector roles
• Hospitality, tourism, and cultural institutions
• Manufacturing and agriculture-support businesses

A well-connected highway system and short commute times make it easy to live in one area and work in another.

What to Do in Kansas City, Missouri

KC blends food, sports, and culture in a way few cities do. There’s plenty to pique your interest. 

Sports

• Kansas City Chiefs (NFL): Famous for electric crowds and championship energy. You may even spot Taylor Swift.
• Kansas City Royals (MLB):  Family-friendly atmosphere and summer ballpark traditions.
• Sporting Kansas City (MLS): A passionate soccer culture at Children’s Mercy Park.
• Kansas City Current (NWSL): The world’s first stadium built specifically for a women’s professional soccer team.

We Can’t Forget The Kansas City Food Scene & Nightlife

Kansas City is nearly synonymous with barbecue. Joe’s Kansas City, Q39, Jack Stack, Arthur Bryant’s, Slap’s, and countless local gems all have loyal followings.

Beyond BBQ, neighborhoods like River Market, Westport, Crossroads, and Downtown offer global cuisine, chef-driven dining, breweries (including Boulevard Brewing), craft coffee shops, and dessert favorites like Billie’s Grocery and Betty Rae’s. 

Looking to go out? No problem. From Power & Light District to Westport, you can find drinks, dancing, and plenty to get up to after-hours. Don’t want to stay put? These major celebration centers are all connected by the KC Streetcar, making it easy to transition from cocktails and jazz at the Green Lady Lounge in Crossroads to Brown & Loe in River Market for dinner and back to Power & Light for dancing. 

Moving to Kansas City? CORT Makes Your Move Easier

If you’re ready to see why no-coast living is booming and Kansas City is calling your name, CORT is here to help. 

Relocating is exciting…and a little overwhelming. CORT Furniture Rental helps you start strong by making your new space feel like home from the very first day. Choose a curated or customizable furniture package, select your delivery date, and CORT handles the rest, including setup and later pickup when you move again or decide to keep your forever furniture.

Ready to begin your Kansas City chapter in comfort and style?  Build your furniture package online or visit your nearest CORT showroom to get started.