kansas suburbs of kansas city (Overland Park, Olathe: apartment, houses, school districts)

[bar777]

could anyone fill me in on the nature of the kansas side, what to look for, what to look out for?

the city itself seems gritty. looking for a quiet clean 'town' that's more affluent. is the overland park/lenexa area my best bet?

thanks.

[mercedes1]

Overland Park and Lenexa are located in Johnson County. If you are looking for clean and affluent in Kansas, this is the area (Johnson County) you should be considering. Johnson County is ranked #39 in wealth in the country. Overland Park is pretty consistent in rating highly on various "best places" lists. Shawnee Mission and Blue Valley school districts are excellent. Johnson County library system always ranks in the top five for its population served in Hapler's Library Ratings. The shopping is wonderful. Housing ranges from brand new suburbs to your more traditional older homes. The Kansas suburbs located in Johnson County are Westwood, Fairway, Mission, Prairie Village, Overland Park, Lenexa, Shawnee. Olathe, Stanley, Stilwell are communities in Johnson County (plus south Overland Park) located in the far southern area of the county.

[KevK]

You want to live in Johnson County period. No other place is even worth looking at.

[KansasDB]

I agree with the other posters. I've lived in KC area for years, and mostly in Johnson County. It is perfect for a family, but a little dull for singles. North Overland Park/Johnson County is the older area, south is the newer and the further south you go, the more affluent you find. By south I mean south of the I-435 loop. If you want an apartment, look around 135th and Nall/Roe. If you want a house, go as far south as you can afford because you're houses will hold value longer. GREAT schools, although having had children in both Shawnee Mission (north area) and Blue Valley (south area), I much prefer Blue Valley Schools - fewer troubled kids, less issues, except maybe high schoolers who drink. Good Luck.