Blog Post

Kansas City is one of the largest cities in the Midwest and it contains an eclectic mix of culture while still managing to maintain its quaint charm.  More than 200 picturesque fountains are spread across the city giving it the nickname the "City of Fountains. This blog entry will provide you with some helpful tips and information on just about everything you need to know if you're going to be making the move to Kansas City. From the city's neighborhoods and school systems to the employment options and recreational activities available within the city, you'll find it all in this guide so that you can go into your move with the knowledge that is needed to make sure everything goes as smoothly as possible.

Moving Advice

It is advisable to schedule your move during the fall as the chance of severe storms and tornados is lesser than during the spring and early summer. You should make it a habit to listen to the weather report, especially during tornado season. If you hear any warnings, take cover immediately. Before buying or renting property in Kansas City make sure it is close to a storm shelter. Have an evacuation plan in place and go over it with your family so that you know what to do and where to meet in case of an emergency. Make prior arrangements with utility companies like electric, telephone, water, and cable - before you move into your new home, unless you want to have a candlelight dinner during your move.

Living Costs

Low real estate costs and the availability of foods and consumer products have resulted in a low cost of living which is approximately lower than the US average by 6.5 percent. Costs incurred on grocery, alcohol, tobacco, clothing, communication, furniture, recreation, and restaurants are low when compared to other cities. Education and healthcare costs are high. Apart from being an agricultural hub, a federal government city, and a major business center in the Midwest, the city's increasing employment and white collar professionals have led to an increase in the standard of living.

Climate

Kansas City has a humid continental climate, with extreme temperatures, moderate precipitation and lots of severe storms. When moving to Kansas City, you’ll find its summers are humid and hot, with average daytime temperatures in July of 78 degrees Fahrenheit and many days exceeding 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Winters are cold and bring plenty of snow, with average daytime temperatures of around 26 degrees Fahrenheit, but often colder. When moving to Kansas City, it’s important to understand that it’s located in Tornado Alley, and the surrounding metropolitan area is hit by a number of tornadoes and other powerful storms each year.

Kansas City Employment

Several Fortune 500 companies have their headquarters located in Kansas City. Some of these include the Sprint Nextel Corporation, H&R Block, YRC Worldwide Inc., International Asset Holding Corporation, Hallmark Cards, Applebee's, and AMC Theatres. Even though the place offers plenty of employment opportunities, it is a requirement that you prepare well in all cases.

Getting Around

When moving to Kansas City, you’ll find one of the least congested and well-maintained infrastructures in the nation. Traffic can be busy, but thanks to the many freeways, there’s not often much congestion. Public transit here is operated by KACTA, which provides reliable and affordable bus transportation throughout the metropolitan area.

• Roads: Kansas City has the oldest and one of the most extensive highway networks in the country, with the I-70 running from east to west, and the I-435 looping around the city to provide easy access to all neighborhoods.
• Public Transportation: KACTA operates public buses in and around the city, with MAX, a bus rapid transit system, linking downtown to other commercial areas. A streetcar system is also being planned.
• Airports: After moving to Kansas City, you’ll have direct access to Kansas City International Airport and Charles B. Wheeler Downtown Airport.

 

Other helpful resources about the Kansas City region are below:

• Counties in the Bi-State Region
• New Home Communities
• Best Places to Visit in KC
• Important Utility Numbers
• Schools and Districts

Whether you call it KC, the City of Fountains, the Paris of the Plains or the Heart of America, Kansas City is a great place to call home. There truly is something here in Kansas City for everyone.

Starr Homes is the premier award winning Design/Build Kansas City area Green Builder.  For more information please call us at 913-481-2680.