Top 5 Neighborhoods in Kansas City, Missouri in 2026

Kansas City, Missouri is a populous, well-developed city with a hometown feel, located at the confluence of Missouri and Kansas Rivers. Its diverse environments offer a place for everyone – whether you prefer living in an apartment building right in the bustling city center or the quiet lifestyle of green, suburban neighborhoods, Kansas City has a great option for you. 

This article lists five prominent neighborhoods that can be considered for residential or investment purposes in 2026. We have selected our top picks based on price, location, and investment potential and using a number of local sources as well as Homes.com and Zillow. For brokers, AD Mortgage provides a quick Scenario Request tool – submit a form to receive a mortgage option tailored to your client’s needs. 

Key Figures in the Kansas City, Missouri Housing Market

1. Armour Hills

Established in the 1920s, the neighborhood combines proximity to downtown, relaxed suburban atmosphere, and community feel. Wide streets, local parks, and sports amenities contribute to walkability and active living. 

Most houses here are historic and follow Tudor Revival and Colonial Revival styles. The average home value in Armour Hills is $443,051, with an average price per square foot of $263. The year-over-year price growth is 4.6%. 

• Engaged HOA. An active local association preserves historic heritage of the neighborhood and organizes regular events for the residents. Overall, Armour Hills is well-maintained and offers a strong community feel. 
• Quietness and Safety. The crime rate in the neighborhood is below the national average, thanks to the Safety Committee and Block Captains within the Armour Hills Homes Association. 
• Proximity to Downtown. Armour Hills is located close to the city’s employment and transportation hubs, offering its residents easy access to work and entertainment. 
• Investment Stability. Housing in the neighborhood has a strong investment potential due to its historic appeal, limited supply, and high property values. 
• Education Opportunities. Although no schools are located right in the neighborhood, there are many options nearby. Apart from public schools, private institutions, such as Académie Lafayette, are available. 

2. Morningside

Morningside is a charming historic neighborhood with a wide variety of housing. The diverse environment includes bungalows, Arts and Crafts, and modest Colonial Revival houses, making Morningside more eclectic than Armour Hills. 

Morningside’s average home value is $437,991, with the average price per square foot of $236. The year-over-year price growth is 3.2%. Also, due to high demand for property in this area, houses tend to sell twice as fast as the national average. 

• Community Stability. The majority of homes are owner-occupied, contributing to lower turnover, increased safety, well-maintained properties, and a strong neighborhood identity. 
• Access to Brookside Shops. One of the area’s key highlights is the nearby Brookside Shops, offering grocery stores, dining options, cafes, and everyday services within close reach. 
• Transportation Routes. Several major roads – Ward Parkway, 63rd Street, and Brookside Boulevard – provide quick access to interstate highways. A well-established public transportation network also connects residents to downtown and nearby areas. 
• Outdoor Activities. Parks, walking trails, and sports fields make an active lifestyle more accessible.  
• Family Appeal. With great schools and community places, Morningside attracts families, who value closeness to urban amenities, quiet streets, and engaged communities. 

3. Longfellow

Located near downtown, Longfellow is an urban, culturally rich neighborhood. Apartment buildings account for over 35% of the district’s properties, and the vast majority – around 80% – are renter-occupied. This creates a lively vibe, appealing to younger residents rather than to families or retirees. 

The average home value in Longfellow is $400,588, which is slightly more affordable than Armour Hills or Morningside but still way above the city average. 

• Cultural Life. Art venues, museums, and music halls attract energetic, active people to regular cultural events. Longfellow is ideal for those who enjoy socializing after the work week and participating in artistic communities. 
• Cafes and Restaurants. Enjoy a cappuccino in a cozy coffee shop or meet with friends in a noisy bar – the neighborhood offers a variety of dining options for different tastes and budgets. 
• Historic Appeal. Longfellow started developing in the late 19th century, and many historical buildings are carefully preserved to this day. 
• Higher Education. The University of Missouri-Kansas City, Rockhurst University, and several Metropolitan Community College campuses are all within a short drive from the neighborhood. 
• Rental Potential. Properties in Longfellow are in high demand, mostly from young professionals and students. For real estate investors, the neighborhood offers stable cash flow and long-term appreciation potential. 

4. Volker

For those seeking a central location and lively atmosphere, Volker is a great choice. As the neighborhood is located right next to the University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC), it is extremely popular with the faculty members, students, and staff.  

Compared to other neighborhoods on the list, Volker offers the most affordable properties. The average home price in Volker is $260,621, with a slight decline compared to the previous year. 

• Walkability and Convenience. Thanks to wide sidewalks and tree-lined streets, residents can get to work or run errands by bike or on foot. Bus routes also connect the neighborhood to other parts of the city. 
• Housing Variability. Properties here represent Volker’s long history – from historic bungalows to modern apartment buildings. 
• Entertainment and Dining. Numerous eateries and regular events by the local neighborhood association offer a broad range of options for an evening out. 
• Prospective Investment. In addition to being more affordable, properties in Volker offer a great location, an engaged community, and steady appreciation. Overall, this can be a smart entry point for beginner investors. 
• Employment Hub. Volker is located near major institutions that provide a wide range of employment opportunities. In addition to UMKC, several medical, research, and professional centers are nearby. 

5. West Plaza

Urban convenience and energetic atmosphere make West Plaza a lively yet comfortable place for those who value easy access to a variety of services. The proximity to the Country Club Plaza, Midtown, and downtown appeal to young professionals. Overall, West Plaza is a highly desirable place, due to its prime location, affordable housing, and engaged community. 

The average home value in West Plaza is $370,764, with an average price per square foot of $241. 

• Active Lifestyle. Diverse choice of amenities, community places, walkable streets, and parks shape an energetic environment and offer a variety of activities. 
• Community Engagement. The neighborhood association preserves the neighborhood, keeps an eye on safety, and hosts local events. 
• Westwood Park. This green area within the West Plaza features walking trails, playgrounds, sports facilities, and a dog park. Residents enjoy outdoor activities with their families and friends. 
• Real Estate Options. Properties in West Plaza follow different architectural styles and include Kansas City shirtwaist homes, bungalows, Tudor Revival houses, and brick apartment buildings. 
• Schools and Education. Although there are no schools right in the neighborhood, there are several options within a short drive, including public, private, and higher education institutions. 

Conclusion

Help your clients qualify for a mortgage quickly and on the most suitable terms. AD Mortgage matches each borrower’s situation with a tailored mortgage scenario – submit the Scenario Request form and receive a solution within 30 minutes. 

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