Chicago
As America’s third largest city, Chicago fosters a unique persona with a wild, colorful history that’s earned it a string of nicknames: Second City, Chi-Town, and of course, the Windy City. Countless songs have been written about Chicago, a legendary musical group is named after it, and endless movies and television series are set in it. Chicago is one of the most ideal cities for renters with its blend of affordable and luxury apartments, waterfront views, and abundance of entertainment opportunities. There is something for everyone for every kind of budget in Chicago! So what is it like living in Chicago? Well, first off the architecture is stunning, ranging from the John Hancock Tower to Tribune Tower and Willis Tower. Residents and visitors alike enjoy watching a Cubs game at Wrigley Field, visiting the Lincoln Park Zoo, taking in the views from Grant Park, admiring the Bean at Millennium Park, hopping aboard a dinner cruise at Navy Pier, and gazing at the designer stores along the Magnificent Mile. This city is home to some of the nation’s greatest artistic and cultural attractions, from the Art Institute of Chicago to the Chicago Cultural Center. Summers are spent relaxing on the beach, whether it be 12th Street Beach or Oak Street Beach. Locals can be found dancing the night away at one of the many jazz and blues clubs. Chicago is home to a top-notch public transit system, so commuting is a breeze for any renter.
Kansas City
For all intents and purposes, Kansas City, KS is very much part of the Kansas City, MO community. In some parts of town, you can cross the state line without even knowing it. As a result of this closeness, the two Kansas Cities share many cultural resources: NFL and MLB games, Crossroads Arts District, the American Jazz Museum, and the National WWI Museum and Memorial are all located in Missouri but easily accessible from across the border. So what’s the benefit of renting an apartment on the Kansas side of the state line? Closer access to a more relaxed, rural lifestyle. On the west end of town, Kansas Speedway hosts NASCAR Sprint Cup races, and the Major League Soccer franchise Sporting Kansas City plays its home games at Children’s Mercy Park (in fact, Kansas City bills itself as the Soccer Capital of America). Minnesota Avenue downtown is known as the “Avenue of Murals,” thanks to the large works of art decorating many of the buildings along this road. Of course, one local staple is available on both sides of the border: the legendary Kansas City barbecue.
Shawnee Mission
Shawnee Mission is a rather large community, nestled south of the Kansas River. While the city boasts an extensive park list, Shawnee Mission Park is by far the largest. At this green space, you can hike, attend a concert at the outdoor theater, or go boating on the lake. A suburb of Kansas City, residents are comforted by direct access to Interstate 435 as well as Oak Park Mall. Everywhere you go, you’re surrounded by great dining options, family-friendly activities, and modern comforts. There’s a cool selection of fine dining along Midland Drive, such as Paulo and Bill Restaurant and Minsky’s Pizza. You’ll find many unique apartments in Shawnee Mission – at many different price points!
