Whether you are moving from a bigger city, like Chicago or New York, or from teensy tiny town like Pratt or Medicine Lodge, KS, you may be wondering what it's like to raise kids in Kansas City. You may also be a current resident of the KC area and still be wondering if you want to raise your kids here. My husband and I came from different back-grounds, one from big city living and one of us from rural, everyone knows your business living. Both places can be great to grow up in, but there are also great reasons to live in or move to KC to start your family. Coming from a bigger city, one might think that the real-estate here is much more affordable, that it's slower paced, and that there are lots of family friendly activities. If coming from a smaller more rural location, one might think the city has a lot to do, is more private, and has great educational opportunities.
First of all, most people think living in KC is actually "Kansas City." I will clear that up right now. The KC metro area is comprised of many smaller towns all connected. When you first move here you may never know what city you are actually physically standing in because you can cross from one to the next and not notice. So, you may be moving to the metro, but you could easily be living in Kansas City, MO or Overland Park, KS. It just all depends on what type of living you are looking for. Either way, if you are moving from a much bigger city you will most likely love what you can get a great piece of property for. Take for example this lovely home just South of the Country Club Plaza, located in Kansas City, MO. (link #1) If you are wanting a larger, newer home you might want something from an area like Overland Park, KS. (link #2) If coming from a rural area, these might seem expensive, so keep in mind that there are great homes here in different areas for all price ranges.
http://www.twegner.remax-midstates.com/Home/6428-Morningside-Drive-Kansas-City-MO-64113/HRT/1853506
http://www.twegner.remax-midstates.com/Home/11521-Flint-Street-Overland-Park-KS-66210/HRT/1851117
Getting away from the hustle and bustle of a really big city might be why someone chooses Kansas City to raise their kids. The traffic is much lighter and the city is generally slower paced when compared to big cities like Chicago, New York, or Las Angeles. Many of the places that you will take your kids will not be as crowded and the lines will not be as long. This is a city of decent size that will allow you to have your own car and drive to your own activities, making it much easier to survive the city life with a family.
Another reason to raise kids in Kansas City is because of the many family-friendly activities that are here. I've been raising kids here in the city for 3 1/2 years now and we are frequent visitors to the Kansas City Zoo, the Children's Museum, Little Monkey Bizness, and the ever popular Fritz's Rail-Road Restaurant. You may Google all of the above, but I've included a link to Fritz's. It's definitely one of the more popular family restaurants and should be on the list of places to go if you visit Kansas City with kids.
http://www.fritzskc.com
Moving to Kansas City from a rural area may excite you because of the many things to do with your kids. As mentioned above you can head to the Kansas City Zoo, the Children's Museum, Little Monkey Bizness, indoor or outdoor swimming pools, lots of parks, a sporting event or concert, an art show or parade, and many, many other fun activities. Something is going on literally every day of the week.
Living in a small town can mean zero privacy. Everyone knows what you are wearing for the day before you even step out of your house in the morning. Well, moving to the city can change that, because you are just another human body and no one cares who went to lunch with who. This can be a big positive for people who like their privacy. So, moving to KC could be the stress reliever that you need.
One last reason why someone from rural America may want to venture to the KC Metro area to raise a family is because of the wonderful educational opportunities. There are numerous schools with very high rankings, but one to mention is the Blue Valley School District. I dare you to Google them and be impressed. KC may just be the place for you and your family afterall.
So, whether you are being forced to make a work transfer from your big amazing city or you are moving from a small town for bigger and better opportunities, I dare you to check out some of my suggestions because you just may love it. Kansas City may be the perfect place for you to raise your kids and have one big happy family.
Thanks for reading! :)
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