Author: Marcus Painter, Founder and Owner | Alpine Property Management Kansas City LLC
Experience: 12+ years managing rental properties in Kansas City | 250+ properties currently managed
Published: May 15, 2023 (Updated December 2025) | Kansas City Metro
Quick Answer
The best neighborhoods for rental property investments in Kansas City depend on your investment goals, but strong options include River Market, Crossroads Arts District, Waldo, Brookside, Plaza/Westport, North Kansas City, Midtown, Prairie Village, Parkville, and Leawood. Each neighborhood offers different advantages from urban walkability and young professional tenants to suburban family appeal and strong school districts. Alpine Property Management manages 250+ properties across these areas and can help investors evaluate opportunities based on rental demand, tenant demographics, and long term appreciation potential.
Introduction: Why Kansas City Attracts Real Estate Investors
Kansas City has become one of the most attractive rental markets in the Midwest, drawing investors from across the country. The combination of affordable entry prices compared to coastal markets, steady population growth, diverse employment sectors, and strong rental demand makes Kansas City a compelling choice for both new and experienced real estate investors.
But Kansas City isn’t one market it’s dozens of distinct neighborhoods, each with its own character, tenant base, and investment profile. Understanding these differences helps investors make smarter decisions that align with their goals.
This guide breaks down ten of the top neighborhoods for rental property investments in Kansas City, covering what makes each area unique and what types of tenants and properties you’ll typically find there.
1. River Market: Urban Living With Historic Character
River Market is one of Kansas City’s most vibrant neighborhoods, combining historic architecture with modern urban amenities. Located just north of downtown along the Missouri River, this walkable district centers around the City Market one of the largest public farmers’ markets in the Midwest.
What Draws Tenants Here:
- Walkability to restaurants, shops, and entertainment
- Easy access to downtown employment centers
- Historic loft apartments and converted warehouse spaces
- Riverside trails and outdoor recreation
- Streetcar access connecting to downtown and the Crossroads
Typical Tenant Profile:
Young professionals, couples without children, and empty nesters who prioritize urban convenience over space. Tenants here often work downtown and value being able to walk or bike to work.
Property Types:
Primarily condos, lofts, and apartments in converted historic buildings. Single family homes are rare in this area.
Investor Considerations:
River Market commands premium rents for the urban lifestyle it offers. The neighborhood has seen significant investment and development over the past decade, and demand remains strong among tenants seeking walkable urban living.
2. Crossroads Arts District: Creative Energy and Urban Appeal
The Crossroads Arts District sits just south of downtown and has transformed from an industrial warehouse district into Kansas City’s creative hub. Known for art galleries, First Friday art walks, craft breweries, and innovative restaurants, the Crossroads attracts tenants who want to be at the center of the city’s cultural scene.
What Draws Tenants Here:
- Thriving arts and entertainment scene
- Unique loft style living spaces
- Proximity to downtown, Union Station, and Crown Center
- Walkable streets with local businesses
- Streetcar connectivity
Typical Tenant Profile:
Artists, creative professionals, young professionals, and anyone drawn to urban energy and cultural amenities. The Crossroads tends to attract tenants who prioritize location and lifestyle over square footage.
Property Types:
Converted warehouse lofts, modern apartment buildings, and some newer construction. Like River Market, single family rentals are uncommon.
Investor Considerations:
The Crossroads has experienced substantial appreciation as the neighborhood has developed. Rental demand remains strong, particularly for unique spaces with character. The area’s ongoing development suggests continued interest from tenants seeking urban living.
3. Waldo: Affordable Charm With Strong Community
Waldo offers a different feel from the urban core tree-lined streets, established single-family homes, and a tight-knit community atmosphere. Located in south Kansas City along Wornall Road, Waldo provides easy access to the Plaza and downtown while maintaining a neighborhood feel.
What Draws Tenants Here:
- More affordable rents than neighboring Brookside or the Plaza
- Walkable commercial district along Wornall Road
- Strong sense of community and local identity
- Family friendly environment with parks and schools
- Easy highway access for commuters
Typical Tenant Profile:
Young families, couples, and professionals seeking more space than urban neighborhoods offer at a more accessible price point. Waldo attracts tenants who want neighborhood character without premium pricing.
Property Types:
Primarily single family homes ranging from smaller bungalows to larger family homes. Some duplexes and small multifamily properties are also available.
Investor Considerations:
Waldo offers solid rental demand with more affordable acquisition costs than some neighboring areas. The neighborhood’s strong identity and community feel contribute to tenant retention, and the mix of housing types provides options for different investment strategies.
4. Brookside: Established Appeal With Premium Positioning
Brookside is one of Kansas City’s most desirable residential neighborhoods, known for its charming historic homes, walkable shopping district, and excellent location. Situated between Waldo and the Plaza, Brookside offers the best of both worlds, neighborhood charm with easy access to urban amenities.
What Draws Tenants Here:
- Historic homes with architectural character
- Walkable shops and restaurants along 63rd Street
- Proximity to the Plaza, UMKC, and Research Medical Center
- Strong neighborhood identity and community events
- Excellent schools and family friendly environment
Typical Tenant Profile:
Professionals, families, and graduate students (given proximity to UMKC). Brookside attracts tenants willing to pay premium rents for location, character, and neighborhood quality.
Property Types:
Single family homes predominate, ranging from charming bungalows to larger historic homes. Some apartment buildings and condos are also available, particularly near the commercial district.
Investor Considerations:
Brookside properties typically command higher acquisition costs but also achieve premium rents. The neighborhood’s established reputation and strong demand from quality tenants make it attractive for investors focused on tenant stability and long-term appreciation.
5. Plaza/Westport: Urban Convenience Meets Entertainment
The Country Club Plaza and adjacent Westport neighborhood form one of Kansas City’s most recognized districts. The Plaza the nation’s first suburban shopping center offers upscale retail, dining, and entertainment, while Westport provides a more eclectic mix of bars, restaurants, and nightlife.
What Draws Tenants Here:
- Walking distance to shopping, dining, and entertainment
- Historic Spanish style architecture on the Plaza
- Proximity to major employers and hospitals
- Active social scene in Westport
- Easy access to highways and public transit
Typical Tenant Profile:
Young professionals, medical residents and staff (given proximity to Saint Luke’s and other hospitals), and anyone prioritizing walkability and social amenities. The area attracts tenants who want an active lifestyle without needing a car for daily activities.
Property Types:
Mix of high rise apartments, mid-rise buildings, condos, and some single family homes in surrounding residential streets. Westport includes more historic homes and smaller apartment buildings.
Investor Considerations:
Plaza/Westport offers strong rental demand driven by employment centers, entertainment options, and urban convenience. The diverse property mix provides options at various price points, and the area’s established popularity ensures consistent tenant interest.
6. North Kansas City: Revitalization and Opportunity
North Kansas City (“Northtown”) is a separate municipality just across the Missouri River from downtown Kansas City. Once primarily industrial, North Kansas City has experienced significant revitalization, with new restaurants, breweries, and residential development transforming the area.
What Draws Tenants Here:
- More affordable rents than downtown or midtown
- Growing restaurant and entertainment scene
- Easy commute to downtown Kansas City
- Mix of historic and newer properties
- Small town feel with urban proximity
Typical Tenant Profile:
Young professionals, couples, and budget conscious renters who want proximity to downtown without downtown prices. North Kansas City attracts tenants who appreciate the area’s emerging character and relative affordability.
Property Types:
Mix of single family homes, duplexes, and apartment buildings. The housing stock ranges from older historic properties to newer construction as development continues.
Investor Considerations:
North Kansas City offers more accessible entry points for investors while benefiting from ongoing revitalization. The area’s transformation has increased tenant interest, and its proximity to downtown supports continued rental demand.
7. Midtown: Central Location With Diverse Options
Midtown encompasses the neighborhoods between downtown and the Plaza, offering a central location with diverse housing options and price points. This area includes several distinct sub-neighborhoods, each with its own character.
What Draws Tenants Here:
- Central location between downtown and the Plaza
- Diverse architecture from different eras
- Mix of urban and residential feels
- Access to hospitals, universities, and employers
- Variety of housing options and price points
Typical Tenant Profile:
A diverse mix including young professionals, students, medical workers, and families. Midtown’s variety means it attracts a broader range of tenants than more homogeneous neighborhoods.
Property Types:
Everything from historic mansions converted to apartments, to single family homes, duplexes, and apartment buildings. The diversity of housing stock is one of Midtown’s defining characteristics.
Investor Considerations:
Midtown’s central location and diverse housing options make it accessible to various investment strategies. The neighborhood’s variety means investors can find properties at different price points while benefiting from strong location fundamentals.
8. Prairie Village: Suburban Quality With Strong Schools
Prairie Village is an established suburb in Johnson County, Kansas, known for excellent schools, safe streets, and a strong sense of community. As one of the first planned communities in the Kansas City area, Prairie Village offers consistent housing stock and well maintained infrastructure.
What Draws Tenants Here:
- Highly rated Shawnee Mission School District
- Safe, family friendly environment
- Well maintained homes and streets
- Community amenities and parks
- Easy access to Johnson County employment centers
Typical Tenant Profile:
Families with school age children, professionals working in Johnson County, and tenants seeking suburban stability. Prairie Village attracts tenants who prioritize schools and safety over urban amenities.
Property Types:
Predominantly single family homes built in the mid-20th century, typically with 3-4 bedrooms. The consistent housing stock makes comparable analysis straightforward for investors.
Investor Considerations:
Prairie Village offers stable rental demand driven by school quality and suburban appeal. The Johnson County location means access to strong employment centers, and the established nature of the community supports consistent tenant interest from families.
9. Parkville: Small Town Charm Near Urban Amenities
Parkville is a picturesque community northwest of downtown Kansas City, centered around a charming historic downtown along the Missouri River. Home to Park University, Parkville combines small town appeal with easy access to the broader metro area.
What Draws Tenants Here:
- Quaint downtown with local shops and restaurants
- Scenic riverfront and English Landing Park
- Strong sense of community
- Park University creates student and faculty housing demand
- Easy access to KCI Airport and downtown Kansas City
Typical Tenant Profile:
Families seeking small town living, university connected tenants (students, faculty, staff), and professionals who commute to downtown or the Northland. Parkville attracts tenants who value community character and natural surroundings.
Property Types:
Mix of historic homes near downtown, newer suburban developments, and some apartment complexes. The housing variety provides options for different tenant preferences.
Investor Considerations:
Parkville’s community appeal and university presence support consistent rental demand. The area’s location provides access to both downtown Kansas City and the growing Northland employment centers, while the small town character attracts tenants seeking an alternative to suburban developments.
10. Leawood: Premium Suburban Living
Leawood is one of the Kansas City metro’s most affluent suburbs, located in Johnson County, Kansas. Known for upscale shopping, excellent schools, and premium housing, Leawood attracts tenants seeking top tier suburban living.
What Draws Tenants Here:
- Excellent Blue Valley and Shawnee Mission school options
- Upscale retail and dining (Town Center, Park Place)
- Safe, well maintained community
- Premium amenities and newer construction
- Strong Johnson County employment access
Typical Tenant Profile:
Families prioritizing top schools, professionals seeking premium housing, and corporate relocations. Leawood attracts tenants with higher incomes who expect quality properties and community amenities.
Property Types:
Larger single family homes, luxury apartments, and condos. Properties in Leawood typically feature higher end finishes and amenities compared to other areas.
Investor Considerations:
Leawood requires higher acquisition costs but commands premium rents from quality tenants. The strong school districts and affluent community attract stable, long term tenants, and the area’s reputation supports property values over time.
How Do I Choose the Right Neighborhood for My Investment?
Selecting the right neighborhood depends on your specific investment goals and strategy:
Consider Your Target Tenant:
Different neighborhoods attract different tenants. Urban areas like River Market and Crossroads appeal to young professionals, while Prairie Village and Leawood attract families focused on schools. Matching your property to tenant demand in that area is essential.
Evaluate Entry Costs vs. Rent Potential:
Some neighborhoods require higher acquisition costs but deliver premium rents. Others offer more accessible entry points with solid cash flow potential. Understanding this relationship helps align investments with your capital and return expectations.
Think About Property Management:
Different property types and tenant profiles create different management demands. Working with a property manager who knows these neighborhoods helps you understand what to expect and how to optimize performance.
Consider Long Term Trends:
Some neighborhoods are established and stable, while others are experiencing growth or revitalization. Both can be good investments, but they offer different risk and return profiles.
Conclusion: Kansas City Offers Diverse Investment Opportunities
Kansas City’s diverse neighborhoods provide rental property investment opportunities for virtually every strategy and budget. From urban lofts in the Crossroads to family homes in Prairie Village, the market offers options that can align with your investment goals.
What All Successful Kansas City Investments Share:
- Understanding of local tenant demand
- Appropriate property pricing for the neighborhood
- Quality property management
- Realistic expectations for the specific market
Alpine Property Management has managed 250+ properties across Kansas City’s diverse neighborhoods since 2013. We understand the nuances of each area and help investors make informed decisions based on real market experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the best neighborhood for rental property investment in Kansas City? The “best” neighborhood depends on your investment goals. Urban areas like River Market and Crossroads offer strong demand from young professionals. Suburban areas like Prairie Village and Leawood attract families seeking quality schools. Each neighborhood has different tenant profiles, price points, and return characteristics.
Which Kansas City neighborhoods have the strongest rental demand? Rental demand is strong across the metro, but areas near employment centers, quality schools, and urban amenities typically see the most consistent interest. The Plaza/Westport area, Brookside, and Johnson County suburbs all demonstrate reliable tenant demand.
Should I invest on the Missouri or Kansas side? Both sides offer strong investment opportunities. Missouri (Kansas City proper) typically offers more urban options and potentially lower property taxes. Kansas (Johnson County) offers highly rated schools and affluent suburban markets. Many investors own properties on both sides.
What types of properties work best for Kansas City rentals? Single-family homes represent the largest segment of the Kansas City rental market, particularly in suburban areas. Urban neighborhoods offer more condos and apartments. The best property type depends on your target neighborhood and tenant demographic.
How do I evaluate a Kansas City neighborhood for investment? Research comparable rents, vacancy rates, days on market, and tenant demographics. Drive the neighborhood at different times. Talk to a local property manager who knows the area. Understanding who rents there and why helps you evaluate whether your property will attract quality tenants.
Does Alpine manage properties in all these neighborhoods? Yes. Alpine Property Management serves the entire Kansas City metro including all neighborhoods mentioned in this guide both Missouri and Kansas sides. We currently manage 250+ properties across these diverse areas.
What returns can I expect from Kansas City rental properties? Returns vary significantly by neighborhood, property type, and acquisition price. Kansas City generally offers stronger cash on cash returns than coastal markets due to lower acquisition costs relative to rents. A local property manager can help you analyze specific opportunities.
Related Resources
- Buying Your First Rental in KC? Here’s What to Look For
- A Kansas City Investor’s Guide to Passive Income
- Why Out-of-State Investors Are Choosing Kansas City for Rental Properties
- Full Property Management Services
📞 Considering a rental property investment in Kansas City?
Call or text Alpine Property Management at 816-343-4520
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