We first want to preface this by saying that this isn’t a review of neighborhoods in the municipality of North Kansas City. This is a look at popular neighborhoods and areas north of the downtown area of Kansas City (regularly referred to as The Northland) by locals.
Now that we have that out of the way, The Northland is known for being an affordable suburb of KC with access to great schools, restaurants, and shopping. This area sprawls a pretty big distance, but with a little research, you will for sure find a Northland community that is right for you!
Parkville
Parkville is a fairly quaint and quiet area with lots to do. The adorable downtown area looks like it is out of a storybook yet you are in close proximity to everything you could possibly need. Don’t think just because it is charming means that it is sleepy. There are plenty of neat bars and restaurants in the area and awesome shopping is just minutes away.
Homes here range greatly in price so, whether you are looking for a $200,000 3-4 bedroom or a $750,000 home with all of the bells and whistles right on a lake, Parkville has a place for you.
Staley Farms
Staley Farms is a newer member of the Northland neighborhood family, but that doesn’t mean that it doesn’t have a lot to offer – not by a long shot.
With beautiful, upscale homes and golf-course living, Staley Farms is great for those who enjoy the finer things in life but aren’t stuffy about it.
The homes here are absolutely stunning and you can reap the benefits of living in a quiet place with access to some amazing amenities.
It is important to note that the homes here are higher in price than some of the other neighborhoods in the area, but if you have the right budget, Staley Farms is an awesome place to lay down some roots.
Gladstone
Gladstone is great if you are looking for an affordable home that is close, but not too close to downtown. You are in very close proximity to all major areas of the Northland and a 10-minute drive from the lively downtown KC area.
Gladstone is home to quite a few pretty awesome parks and is a place that many from young professionals to retirees call home.
There are plenty of restaurants in Gladstone and if you are a shopper, you are a short drive from the Zona Rosa shopping center. The Gladstone area homes are by far the most affordable on our list, but that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice amenities to live there.
Smithville
Smithville is ideal for those who like rural living but don’t want to be completely secluded. It is technically a city, but we decided to include it on our list because it is so wonderful.
The calm and beautiful nature of Smithville is infectious. The best part? You are near an awesome lake that provides tons of opportunities for recreation. This community, although a bit spread out, is still very tight-knit and homes range in price to meet every budget.
Not only is Smithville the perfect place to satisfy the need for country living, it is also a great place to raise a family. Smithville High School Ranked Second “Best High School” in Missouri by U.S. News & World Report in 2019 and there are tons of fun activities year-round for little ones to enjoy. Check out some of the homes in Smithville.
Briarcliff
Briarcliff is perfect for those who want a gated community experience without the gate. The homes here are stunning and overlook the entire city. Many are drawn to Briarcliff because of the unique and sometimes lavish homes, but they stay because it is in close proximity to everything you could possibly need.
Do you need to be downtown in 10 minutes? Want a short commute to your job off of Barry Road? How about being 5 minutes away from delicious coffee shops, boutiques, and restaurants? Briarcliff is the place to be when you want quiet comfort but don’t want to be cut off from the thriving hustle and bustle that KC has to offer.
Homes are a little pricier in Briarcliff than some of the closer areas, but if you have the budget, and want to stay close to the action without being in the action, it is a great place to set down your roots.
The National
For those who really want to live large, head over to The National for your house hunt. This neighborhood is the cream of the crop when talking about places to live in the Northland and it absolutely does not disappoint.
Whether you want a one-story, two-story, ranch, or reverse ranch, you’ll appreciate the community’s high standards for quality and its eye for beauty. This neighborhood appeals to everyone from empty nesters to newlyweds and young families and everyone in between.
Once you’ve settled in your new home, the warm community will invite you to fun neighborhood events. You can get to know your neighbors by dropping by the local playground, pool, park, walking trails, or Frisbee course.
If you are interested in learning more about moving into one of these great neighborhoods in the Northland, contact the team at Dream Homes by Jen by calling 816.405.2439. Our crew knows the area and can help you find the home of your dreams in a neighborhood that you will love!
