Kansas City, Missouri, offers a laid-back Midwestern lifestyle with a lower cost of living compared to other major cities. The home of the Kansas City Chiefs, the Kansas City metro area has everything from nightlife in Downtown Kansas City to hiking trails at the Platte Falls Conservation Area.
For renters considering a move to KC, affordability and quality of life go hand in hand. We’ve explored the city and identified the five most affordable places to live where you can find great opportunities to live, work, and enjoy everything Kansas City has to offer.
The five cheapest neighborhoods in Kansas City in 2025 are:
Hanover Place
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Kansas City: $1,186/month
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Hanover Place: $1,006/month
- Median home value in Hanover Place: $354,500
Hanover Place is a cozy, walkable neighborhood with tree-lined streets, affordable housing, and a community-focused ambiance. It’s the perfect option for those looking for a diverse, down-to-earth atmosphere close to Midtown Kansas City. This neighborhood is popular for its early-20th-century homes, many of which feature restored architectural detail. Residents enjoy living near the Old Westport area for nightlife and more peaceful parks for relaxation.
Things to do in Hanover Place
Hanover Place residents enjoy proximity to Penn Valley Park, a sprawling green space ideal for picnics, jogging, or stunning views of the KC skyline. Two historic event venues, the Madrid Theatre and the Uptown Theater, are within the neighborhood limits and have full concert calendars. Local gems like Broadway Café and Island Spice, a Jamaican restaurant known for their jerk chicken and curried chicken, keep residents coming back for more.
Transportation
Getting around Hanover Place is simple with multiple bus routes, including the RideKC bus system connecting to Downtown KC and other parts of the city. Major highways like I-35 and US-71 are easily accessible, making commuting or exploring greater Kansas City very convenient.
Central Hyde Park
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Kansas City: $1,186/month
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Central Hyde Park: $1,023/month
- Median home value in Central Hyde Park: $590,000
Located in midtown, Central Hyde Park is well-known for its historic homes, welcoming community, and suburban appeal. Home to the historic Hyde Park, residents love this area’s greenery and quiet atmosphere.
Things to do in Central Hyde Park
Gillham Park provides a central gathering spot for outdoor activities, and Hyde Park itself boasts plenty of green space to enjoy. You’ll also find local cafes nearby, like Anchor Island Coffee and Oddly Correct Coffee Bar, both on Troost Avenue. Residents can enjoy quick access to Uptown Theater for live events and concerts.
Transportation
RideKC buses operate several routes here, connecting residents to other parts of the metro area. Nearby highways offer quick routes for commuters, with lighter traffic compared to other major cities.
North Hyde Park
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Kansas City: $1,186/month
- Average 1-bedroom rent in North Hyde Park: $1,026/month
- Median home value in North Hyde Park: $258,500
A branch of the larger Hyde Park area, North Hyde Park provides a quieter experience while still being close to everything Kansas City offers. This neighborhood has grown in popularity thanks to its affordable rents and small-town feel just a stone’s throw from downtown. Residents appreciate the mix of historical charm and modern amenities you’ll find in homes and apartments here.
Things to do in North Hyde Park
North Hyde Park is a primarily residential area, but residents enjoy proximity to nearby staples like Penn Valley Park or Country Club Plaza. Local cafes and restaurants, like The Fix or Brewers Kitchen, offer plenty of options for when you don’t feel like cooking.
Transportation
The area offers easy access to RideKC bus routes and major highways, giving residents plenty of commuting options.
Southmoreland
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Kansas City: $1,186/month
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Southmoreland: $1,125/month
- Median home value in Southmoreland: $232,500
Southmoreland is a trendy area offering affordable housing and a tight-knit community. The neighborhood is best known for its artsy vibe, thanks to its proximity to the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art and the Kansas City Art Institute. Living here means being close to museums, restaurants, and stunning green spaces, all within an affordable price range.
Things to do in Southmoreland
Southmoreland residents are never far from cultural hotspots. The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art and the Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art both offer free admission to world-class exhibits, and the Kansas City Art Institute adds to the neighborhood’s appeal to creatives. Residents also love to visit Southmoreland Park, known for community events like the Heart of America Shakespeare Festival.
Transportation
Public transportation includes RideKC buses serving all corners of the neighborhood, and major roadways like Main Street and Troost Avenue allow for seamless drives. The KC Streetcar expansion will also benefit the area by fall 2025, providing easier access to downtown.
Northland
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Kansas City: $1,186/month
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Northland: $1,157/month
- Median home value in Northland: $450,000
Northland encompasses several neighborhoods north of the Missouri River and offers suburban living within city limits. Known for its spacious homes, good schools, and welcoming environment, Northland is a top choice for renters seeking a quiet lifestyle without sacrificing accessibility.
Things to do in Northland
Northland residents benefit from attractions like Zona Rosa, a shopping and dining hub with something for everyone. Nearby green spaces like Frank Vaydik Park provide trails and picturesque spots for relaxation. History buffs will enjoy the Shoal Creek Living History Museum, a collection of log cabins in Hodge Park where actors bring the 19th century to life.
Transportation
Northland offers convenient access to major highways like I-29, I-35, and Highway 152, making commutes stress-free. Several KC Metro bus routes also serve the area, and the Kansas City International Airport is a short drive away for travelers.
Make the Most of Your Move with Apartments.com
Whether you’re dropping in for a short-term lease or hoping to set down roots, Apartments.com has the tools to help you find an affordable apartment easily. Navigate housing across neighborhoods with our customized search engine. Once you find the perfect location, narrow the search within a price range that works for you.
No matter the budget, the options are endless with Apartments.com. Ready to get started? Pay less, live more, and rent on.
Apartment rent data provided by CoStar Group’s April 2025 reports.
