Best Suburbs for Families in Kansas City (2026 Guide)

If you are planning a move to the Kansas City area and raising a family, choosing the right suburb can make a huge difference in your daily life. Schools, safety, commute times, housing styles, and access to parks all play a role in finding the right fit.

The Kansas City metro has many excellent options for families, each offering something a little different. Below are some of the best suburbs in Kansas City for families in 2026, along with what makes each area stand out.

What families look for when choosing a suburb

Before diving into specific cities, it helps to understand what most families prioritize when deciding where to live:

Strong public school districts

Safe neighborhoods with a community feel

Reasonable commute times to work and activities

Access to parks, trails, and youth sports

Homes that allow room to grow

Not every suburb checks every box for every family, but Kansas City offers enough variety that most people can find a great match.

Lee's Summit, Missouri

Lee's Summit remains one of the most popular suburbs for families on the Missouri side of the metro.

Families are drawn to Lee's Summit for its highly rated schools, strong sense of community, and wide variety of housing options. You will find newer developments, established neighborhoods, and plenty of family activities throughout the year.

Why families choose Lee's Summit:

Well known public school districts

Large number of parks and trails

Family focused community events

Easy access to major highways

To learn more about schools, neighborhoods, and daily life in the area, visit my full guide to Lee's Summit, Missouri.

Overland Park, Kansas

Overland Park is consistently ranked as one of the best places to live in the region and is especially popular with families.

Located in Johnson County, Overland Park offers strong school districts, well maintained neighborhoods, and a wide range of home styles. It is also known for its extensive park system and recreation programs.

Why families choose Overland Park:

Blue Valley and Shawnee Mission school districts

Many parks, pools, and community centers

Shopping and dining options close to home

Convenient highway access

If you want a deeper look at schools, housing styles, and amenities, see my overview of Overland Park, Kansas.

Prairie Village, Kansas

Prairie Village is ideal for families who want a close knit neighborhood feel and proximity to downtown Kansas City.

Homes here are typically older and full of character, and many families enjoy the walkable streets and strong community involvement. Prairie Village is also known for its local events and small town atmosphere.

Why families choose Prairie Village:

Excellent schools in the Shawnee Mission district

Walkable streets and neighborhood parks

Short drive to the Plaza and downtown

Strong community identity

You can explore more details about housing and lifestyle in Prairie Village, Kansas.

Leawood, Kansas

Leawood is one of the more upscale suburbs in the Kansas City metro and is known for large homes and top rated schools.

Many families choose Leawood for its quiet residential neighborhoods, larger lot sizes, and easy access to business districts in Johnson County.

Why families choose Leawood:

Highly rated public schools

Spacious homes and lots

Strong property values

Close proximity to employment centers

Learn more about neighborhoods and home styles in Leawood, Kansas.

Lenexa, Kansas

Lenexa has grown rapidly in recent years and continues to attract families looking for newer homes and strong amenities.

The city has invested heavily in parks, trails, and community spaces, making it appealing for active families.

Why families choose Lenexa:

Newer subdivisions and modern housing

Excellent parks and recreation facilities

Growing dining and shopping areas

Easy highway access across Johnson County

See what Lenexa has to offer families in Lenexa, Kansas.

Liberty, Missouri

Liberty is one of the fastest growing suburbs north of Kansas City and offers a mix of affordability and family friendly neighborhoods.

Families often choose Liberty for its strong school district and newer developments, while still being close enough to Kansas City for commuting.

Why families choose Liberty:

Highly regarded Liberty School District

Newer housing options at competitive prices

Expanding shopping and dining areas

Easy highway access to downtown Kansas City

For a closer look at neighborhoods and growth in the area, visit Liberty, Missouri.

Blue Springs, Missouri

Blue Springs is another popular option for families looking for space, schools, and value on the Missouri side of the metro.

It offers a mix of suburban neighborhoods and outdoor recreation, including access to lakes and trails.

Why families choose Blue Springs:

Strong public school reputation

Access to outdoor recreation

Family oriented neighborhoods

Good value for larger homes

Explore community details in Blue Springs, Missouri.

Kansas City, Missouri (select neighborhoods)

Kansas City itself offers several neighborhoods that work well for families, especially those who prefer being closer to cultural amenities and downtown.

Areas like Brookside, Waldo, and parts of the Northland are popular with families who want walkability, character homes, and shorter commutes.

Why families choose Kansas City proper:

Historic neighborhoods with strong identity

Access to museums, parks, and events

Shorter commute options for many jobs

Wide range of housing styles

To compare neighborhoods and lifestyle options, see my overview of Kansas City, Missouri.

How to choose the right suburb for your family

There is no single best suburb for every family. The right choice depends on:

School priorities

Commute needs

Housing budget

Lifestyle preferences

Long term plans

Some families prioritize newer homes and large yards. Others value walkability or being closer to the city. Understanding your top priorities helps narrow the search quickly and avoid neighborhoods that may not fit your needs long term.

Final thoughts

Kansas City offers a wide range of family friendly suburbs, each with its own advantages. Whether you are looking for strong school districts, newer developments, or neighborhoods with character and history, there is likely a suburb that fits your goals.

If you are planning a move and want help understanding which areas align best with your family's priorities, I am happy to share local insight and answer questions. You can reach me anytime through my contact page.