COMMUNITY SNAPSHOT
Location: Suburb of Kansas City, Johnson County | Population ~197,000
Demographics: 74% White, 9% Hispanic, 8% Asian, 5% Black, 4% other
Safety: Crime 50% lower than national average
Weather: Cold winters (avg. low 20°F Jan) and warm summers (avg. high 85°F Jul)
WHY FAMILIES CHOOSE OVERLAND PARK
Overland Park offers a safe, welcoming environment with highly rated schools, diverse neighborhoods, and easy access to Kansas City jobs. Families enjoy tree-lined streets, modern parks, and kid-friendly amenities. The city consistently ranks as one of Kansas’ best places to live.
Strengths
Exceptional schools across all levels and family-oriented neighborhoods.
Strong community engagement with parks, libraries, and youth programs.
Considerations
Higher property taxes than national average.
Winters can be cold and snowy, requiring seasonal preparation.
EDUCATION EXCELLENCE IN OVERLAND PARK
Overland Park is primarily served by Blue Valley and Shawnee Mission School Districts, consistently recognized for academic excellence. Families enjoy a wide variety of Niche Grade A schools with low student–teacher ratios, advanced placement programs, and strong extracurriculars. Options include traditional public schools, magnet programs, and private schools—all praised for academics, student life, and community engagement.
Top Public Schools
Blue Valley West Elementary (K–5) | Strong academics, arts, and STEM programs
Blue Valley Middle School (6–8) | Advanced STEM and athletics programs
Blue Valley North High (9–12) | College-prep curriculum, award-winning extracurriculars
Charter & Magnet Choices
Olathe STEM Academy (K–12) | Focus on innovation and project-based learning
STEM-focused Magnet Programs | Specialized pathways in science, technology, and arts
Private School Options
Saint Thomas Aquinas Catholic School | Faith-based academics
Overland Park Montessori School | Early childhood through elementary Montessori programs
Hillsdale Academy | College-prep curriculum with small class sizes
Families relocating to Overland Park quickly see why education is the city’s biggest asset—every school here is an excellent choice.
FEATURED HOMES IN OVERLAND PARK
Whether you’re looking for your first home or an upgrade, Overland Park has options:
Charming Budget-Friendly – $399,500
Sunlight fills every corner of this inviting home, and the backyard is made for summer barbecues, playful pets, or quiet evenings under the stars. Fresh, cheerful interiors give it a warm, welcoming personality that feels instantly like home.
Golf Course Community – $765,000
Vaulted ceilings and open, airy spaces make this home feel spacious yet cozy. The screened-in porch is perfect for morning coffee or evening relaxation, and every corner has a touch of character that makes it feel special.
Elegant Family Home – $950,000
A stunning deck invites quiet mornings or sunset views, while multiple living areas provide space for work, play, and entertaining. Modern touches meet warm, inviting design to create a home that’s both stylish and welcoming.
Delightful Family Haven – $3,500,000
A covered patio and charming backyard make outdoor living effortless, while interiors are designed to feel both cozy and open. Every space has personality, making this a home where life—and memories—happen naturally.
LIFE IN OVERLAND PARK
Offering suburban comfort alongside city convenience, this community has something for everyone. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore extensive trails, parks, and active sports leagues. Foodies and culture seekers will enjoy diverse restaurants, cozy cafés, lively breweries, and a growing live music scene. Families benefit from top-notch libraries, community centers, after-school programs, and easy access to farmers markets and shopping, making daily life both convenient and enjoyable.
OPPORTUNITIES & ECONOMY
The area offers a strong and diverse economy, with major employers spanning telecommunications, finance, healthcare, engineering, and education. Companies like T-Mobile, Fiserv, Compass Minerals, and Black & Veatch provide abundant career opportunities, while Overland Park Regional Medical Center and local universities support both professional growth and education.
The city actively fosters business development, ranking among the best U.S. cities for small businesses and supporting initiatives that attract new companies and encourage expansion. Ongoing infrastructure and mixed-use development projects, combined with a skilled workforce from local colleges, ensure that residents enjoy both economic opportunity and a high quality of life.
Commute Times
Downtown Kansas City: 25 minutes | Kansas City International Airport: 35 minutes
HEALTHCARE
Access to top healthcare systems including Overland Park Regional Medical Center, Saint Luke’s, and AdventHealth ensures families receive comprehensive care—from pediatrics to specialized treatments.
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COMING UP NEXT
Spotlight on Naperville, Illinois — a Midwest gem for families with award-winning schools and tight-knit neighborhoods.