JACKSON COUNTY, MO
County Offices
415 East 12th Street
Kansas City, MO 816-881-3000
www.jacksongov.org
Chamber of Commerce
30 West Pershing Road
Kansas City, MO 816-221-2424
www.kcchamber.com
Settled in 1825 and named after General Andrew Jackson at the pinnacle of his popularity, Jackson County is a region of beautiful rolling hills, wooded sites, and mature greenery. This panoramic county serves as the population center of the metroplex, blending the densely populated metropolis of Kansas City, Missouri, with rapidly growing cities like Lee’s Summit, Blue Springs, and a variety of smaller towns.
Aside from its undeniable economic prowess, Jackson County provides the metroplex with highly developed cultural, educational and commercial resources. At the same time, it offers some of the most diverse, affordable, and attractive housing options you’ll find anywhere in the nation. Meticulously restored homes in historic urban neighborhoods, downtown lofts or high-rises, distinctive country mansions, comfortable cottages, rambling horse properties, and lakefront estates are all available in this diverse area.
A thriving employment center, Jackson County is the chosen location for government headquarters, Fortune 500 home offices, and many nationally and internationally recognized organizations. Drawing strength from its diversity, the county serves as a money center, trading hub, manufacturing center, and agribusiness leader. At the same time, Jackson County offers fertile ground and a dynamic economic climate for small and mid-sized businesses. The combination of excellent transportation and communication services and a low cost of doing business translates into unique advantages.
Superb freeway connections link the various business centers and communities throughout Jackson County, but the region also enjoys a centralized location in terms of national trade and distribution. Miles of freeways, transit bus systems, exceptional trucking and rail services, Foreign Trade Zones, and easy access to Kansas City International Airport ensure first-rate transportation amenities to residents and businesses alike.
Services
Highly rated public school districts provide an outstanding education to Jackson County youth, although opportunities abound for private and parochial instruction. Dedicated staff members, modern classrooms, abundant extra-curricular activities, and a strong core curriculum enhanced by special programs are all characteristics of Jackson County schools.
Opportunities for higher education within Jackson County range from vocational, technical, and business schools to community colleges, specialty institutes, and four-year institutions. An excellent network of two-year colleges includes Longview Community College and Penn Valley Community College. Kansas City is also home to the University of Missouri at Kansas City, the Kansas City Art Institute, Avila College, Rockhurst College, and DeVry Institute.
State-of-the-art healthcare in Jackson County ranges from international pacesetting institutions like Children’s Mercy Hospital to specialized facilities and community resources such as the outdoor fitness complex at the Medical Center of Independence. Extensive outpatient services, clinics, rehabilitation centers, long-term facilities, same-day surgery units, and community programs deliver a full complement of healthcare advantages to the entire metroplex.
Lifestyle
Within the context of the metroplex, Jackson County is synonymous with premier leisure activities, from culture and the arts to professional sports, shopping, and recreation. Those who want to indulge in a day’s shopping or an evening’s entertainment will want to explore the City Market. This multi-million-dollar renovation of the historic River Quay area was once the site for horse trading, political rallies, farm produce sales, medicine shows, and circuses. Here, Midwest farmers sell their fresh fruits and vegetables in the festive atmosphere of the largest open-air farmer’s market in a six-state region. In addition to scores of inviting shops and restaurants, City Market houses the Treasure of the Steamboat Arabia Museum.
At the very heart of the county is internationally celebrated Country Club Plaza, where celebrated shops and unique boutiques join highly recognizable retail leaders. Shoppers can sample the tempting cuisine in outstanding restaurants and bistros, many of which feature world-famous Kansas City steaks and barbecue.
Many come to the Plaza just to enjoy a stroll through the European atmosphere of abundant fountains, sculptures, and ornate Spanish architecture. Outdoor cafes, courtyard concerts, art galleries, trolley excursions, horse-drawn carriage rides combine with the breathtaking glow of millions of holiday lights to elevate the Plaza as one of the Midwest’s most enchanting shopping and dining districts. Another international showpiece is the Nelson-Atkins Museum, one of the most distinguished art museums in the nation. Its Chinese galleries are often praised as some of the finest in museum-collecting history, although renowned traveling exhibitions ensure something new at every visit.
Jackson County is brimming over with treasures and cultural attractions, including world-class museums and galleries, historic sites, symphony, ballet, opera, Broadway shows, concerts, and comedy. From the display of hundreds of prestigious artists at the Plaza Fine Arts Fair to the heartland blossoms at the flower and garden show to the American Royal Horse and Livestock Show, residents and visitors enjoy grand events in all seasons.
Outdoor enthusiasts and sports fans will find an equally wide selection of opportunities in Jackson County. Arrowhead and Kauffman Stadium play host to screaming crowds for the Kansas City Chiefs football and Kansas City Royals baseball, the local favorites. However, other professional teams that draw enthusiastic crowds and fill the year’s calendar with competitive events include football, baseball, soccer, and tennis. Throughout Jackson County, you’ll discover lush open spaces and parks dedicated to recreation and leisure activities. Beautiful golf courses and tennis courts, bicycle and hiking paths, bridle trails, fitness centers, swimming pools, and ice-skating or roller-skating rinks combine with pristine lakes that accommodate water sports, boating, sailing, and fishing. Swope Park serves as a focal point for Kansas City, covering nearly 1,800 acres with open space and premier recreational facilities like the famous Kansas City Zoo and the well-known Starlight Theatre.
Perhaps even more impressive than the quality of life in Jackson County is the low cost of living. Compared to other major cities across the nation, Jackson County real estate is surprisingly affordable and delightfully attractive. Rolling hills and natural wooded landscapes have been carefully preserved in most areas, enhanced by plantings of hardwood and evergreen trees, shrubs, and seasonal plants or flowers.
Residential areas vary dramatically within Jackson County’s larger cities, growing suburbs, and sprawling countryside. Charming older urban neighborhoods and quaint Victorian farmhouses contrast with gleaming downtown high-rises, new subdivisions, or luxurious lakeside estates. Regardless of your taste or lifestyle choices, Jackson County has the ideal home in the right setting. In spite of the diversity and variety that makes Jackson County such a dynamic place to live, work, and play, newcomers can look forward to one constant: the caring new neighbors that will make you feel immediately at home.
Blue Springs
Municipal Offices
816-228-0110
www.bluespringsgov.com
Chamber of Commerce
816-229-8558
www.bluespringschamber.com
Named for the clear springs that reflect the blue summer skies, Blue Springs today is considered to be one of Jackson County’s most livable and desirable communities. Conveniently located along Interstate 70 just 17 miles from Kansas City, this rapidly growing community offers an easy commute, lovely scenery, outstanding recreational facilities, and excellent schools. With its long-established reputation as a family-oriented and friendly city, Blue Springs offers affordable and attractive housing options that range from well-kept older homes along quiet, tree-lined streets to modern construction in beautiful new subdivisions. Beautiful parks offer picnic areas, swimming pools, sports fields, hiking trails, lakes, golf courses, and tennis courts. The Burr Oak Woods Nature Center offers a 1,080-acre park complete with a wildlife refuge, a nature center, and serene ponds. For the finest in suburban living in close proximity to world-class metropolitan amenities, explore the many charms of Blue Springs.
Grain Valley
Municipal Offices
816-847-6200
www.cityofgrainvalley.org
Chamber of Commerce
816-221-2424
www.kcchamber.com
The small community of Grain Valley offers a rural-suburban atmosphere within the Greater Kansas City region, combining quiet, tree-lined neighborhoods with local commerce and recreational facilities. Armstrong Park offers a 10-acre recreational site in the heart of Grain Valley with a medley of amenities that include shelter houses with picnic facilities, a charming gazebo, playgrounds, a skate park, lighted ball fields, and a walking trail. Other highlights include the 36-acre Cross Creek Nature Park along Blue Branch Creek, the Monkey Mountain Sports Complex, and the recently developed Grain Valley Aquatics Center. Residents of Grain Valley enjoy the intimacy of small-town living in close proximity to a host of urban amenities including the world-class attractions in Kansas City.
Grandview
Municipal Offices
816-316-4800
www.grandview.org
Chamber of Commerce
816-221-2424
www.kcchamber.com
Conveniently served by Interstate 71, Grandview has grown from a rural farming community into a well-developed city with a strong industrial and business core. Residents can enjoy the intimacy of a smaller town in close proximity to the array of urban amenities available in neighboring Kansas City. Tranquil and pleasant neighborhoods offer affordable housing options in a variety of architectural styles and price ranges. Active civic organizations, well-developed recreational amenities, and opportunities for employment close to home add to the attraction of this balanced community. River Oaks Golf Club and local parks combine with the outstanding amenities of Longview Lake Park, sprawling over 4,830 acres to offer hiking trails, sports fields, picnic areas, and camping as well as a 950-acre lake for boating and fishing.
Greenwood
Municipal Offices
816-537-6969
http://greenwoodmo.com
Chamber of Commerce
816-221-2424
www.kcchamber.com
Bisected by Highway 150, which also offers connections to Interstates 71 and 50, Greenwood is a serene, small community located along the periphery of Lee’s Summit. Newcomers who desire a rural atmosphere with plenty of open space and room to grow will want to explore the variety of affordable housing options available in Greenwood. Several regional recreational areas are minutes from home, including the James A. Reed Memorial Wildlife Area and Lake Jacomo in nearby Jackson County. Of course, the cultural, shopping, and recreational amenities in Kansas City are all just a short drive from home. Local parks provide playgrounds and ballfields close to home. Nearby recreational amenities include golf courses, tennis courts, and miles of scenic hiking and biking trails. The James A. Reed Memorial Wildlife Area provides opportunities for outdoor enjoyment that includes nearly a dozen bodies of water for first-rate fishing.
Independence
Municipal Offices
816-325-7000
www.ci.independence.mo.us
Chamber of Commerce
816-252-4745
www.ichamber.biz
Progressive, rapidly growing, and attractive, Independence garnered its place on the map years ago when President Harry Truman made it famous as his hometown and “summer White House.” Thousands of visitors still flock to Independence to see the Truman home and browse through the Truman Historical Library and Museum. First-rate schools, easy access to institutions of higher education, and regional healthcare facilities make Independence a hub of activity. Retail activity is brisk in shopping malls and districts, known for their fine antique stores as well as name-brand merchandise. Historic Independence Square is a particularly charming area with more than 80 unique shops and eating establishments. During the holidays, glowing lights, carolers, and carriage rides make this an enchanting district. Considering the rich historic legacy of Independence, it is little wonder that Santa-Cali-Gon Days have become so popular throughout the region. This Labor Day extravaganza of food, fun, and entertainment features one of the nation’s finest arts and craft shows. The festival name is taken from the Santa Fe and Oregon trails, which all began in or near Independence. Lovely parks offer sports fields, tennis courts, swimming pools, playgrounds, camping, and picnic areas. Public and private golf courses and clubs are available in and near Independence. The Burr Oak Woods Nature Center, Blue Springs Lake, and Lake Jacomo are also minutes from home.
Kansas City, MO
Municipal Offices
816-221-2424
http://kcmo.gov/
Chamber of Commerce
816-221-2424
www.kcchamber.com
Most residents of Kansas City, Missouri, would have a difficult time pinpointing their favorite aspect of city life. Would it be the European architecture and beauty of The Country Club Plaza with miles of twinkling holiday lights, or the Hallmark empire and Crown Center development of stylish shops and upscale condominiums. The younger set would be more likely to select the 100-year-old zoo or the fascinating Worlds of Fun/Oceans of Fun amusement park. Kansas City has enough cultural, recreational, and sports activities to fill every evening and weekend of the year’s calendar. Fine museums, art galleries, theater, musicals, jazz, professional sports, and regional centers of knowledge and learning provide the finest advantage for urban living in America. Combine these outstanding amenities with one of the nation’s most dynamic economies, and you have all the ingredients for an unparalleled quality of life. Residential choices in Kansas City seem almost unlimited, from downtown lofts and renovated apartments to historic homes and condominiums in the Westport, Hyde Park, and Plaza areas. Handsome older homes are scattered throughout the area surrounding the Nelson-Atkins Museum, and charming bungalows often mingle with magnificent mansions similar to those lining Ward Parkway. Architecturally stimulating in both commercial and residential structures, Kansas City creates a welcoming and beautiful environment in which to live, work and play. Block after block of handsome turn-of-the-century brick buildings stand proudly beside the towering high-rise configurations of glass and steel. With its lovely boulevards, lush foliage and mature native trees, it is little wonder that this “City of Fountains” is no longer one of the nation’s best kept secrets.
Lake Lotawana
Municipal Offices
816-578-4215
www.lakelotawana.org
Chamber of Commerce
816-221-2424
www.kcchamber.com
Ideally situated just 20 miles from downtown Kansas City and convenient to the urban amenities of Lee’s Summit and Blue Springs, the community of Lake Lotawana offers both summer and year-round homes. This prestigious residential haven surrounds a lovely 600-acre manmade lake, an idyllic backdrop for magnificent waterfront estates with abundant decking and lavish landscaping. Many lots are heavily wooded and offer a natural setting with abundant wildlife for a truly secluded and serene atmosphere. Housing options include a diversity of styles and price ranges, from cozy bungalows to handsome estates on generous acreage. The many clubs and organizations based on recreational amenities like golfing and sailing make this a year-round vacation paradise. Although leisure hours often revolve around the water sports at the community lake, nearby amenities include ballfields, playgrounds, tennis courts, golf courses, and parks with hiking and bridle trails or lakes for fishing and boating.
Lake Tapawingo
Municipal Offices
816-229-3722
www.laketapawingomo.org
Chamber of Commerce
816-221-2424
www.kcchamber.com
Just west of Blue Springs and convenient to the urban amenities of Lee’s Summit as well as Kansas City, Lake Tapawingo offers the comfort and tranquility of lakeside living. The housing selection is diverse and attractive, ranging from charming cottages to magnificent estates with spectacular waterfront views. Offering easy access to Interstates 40 and 70, Lake Tapawingo represents an appealing small-town atmosphere in a setting of natural beauty. Good schools and superb recreational amenities combine with close proximity to major employment centers, cultural and entertainment venues, shopping malls, colleges and universities, and cutting-edge healthcare institutions. In addition to lakeside recreation and waters sports, the amenities of Blue Springs and Lee’s Summit are minutes from home, including lush parks, golf courses, tennis courts, swimming pools, and hiking/biking or bridle trails.
Lee’s Summit
Municipal Offices
816-969-1000
http://cityofls.net
Chamber of Commerce
816-524-2424
www.lschamber.com
Even in the face of rapid growth, Lee’s Summit has managed to protect its original country atmosphere and semi-rural suburban feeling. It is this very balance of expanding urban amenities with lush rolling hills and open space that continues to draw an increasing number of newcomers. Home to a progressive corporate community, Lee’s Summit Hospital, Longview Community College, regional shopping centers, fine restaurants, and a variety of cultural and entertainment venues, Lee’s Summit provides urban amenities to many of the smaller towns and cities that surround it. Housing options include an attractive selection of newer neighborhoods and modern construction as well as charming older homes. Recreational amenities include golf courses and country clubs, tennis courts, ballfields, organized team sports, and lush parks with picnic facilities and hiking trails. Scenic parks, nature centers, and lakes for boating and fishing are minutes from home.
Oak Grove
Municipal Offices
816-690-3773
www.cityofoakgrove.com
Chamber of Commerce
816-221-2424
www.kcchamber.com
Located less the 30 miles east of Kansas City, the fast-growing city of Oak Grove spans both sides of Interstate 70 to offer an idyllic bedroom community for commuters to regional employment centers. Highway F becomes Broadway in the city, the main north-south thoroughfare. With the bright lights of Kansas City on one side and the panoramic Missouri countryside on the other, Oak Grove offers the best of all worlds. World-class cultural and entertainment attractions as well as recreational sites for fishing, camping, hiking, and biking are all just minutes from home. One of the draws to Oak Grove is the abundance of affordable attractive housing in lovely subdivisions. Other highlights include award-winning schools, a public library, nearby lakes, outdoor recreation in lush parks, and year-round activities for local youth. Many new businesses are being drawn to Oak Grove for the same reasons that new residents find this area so appealing: quality of life.
Raytown
Municipal Offices
816-737-6000
www.raytown.mo.us
Chamber of Commerce
816-353-8500
www.raytownchamber.com
Predominantly residential, Raytown is a pleasing combination of the advantages and positive aspects of small-town living. Here, you’ll find a strong community spirit and avid boosters for high school sports teams, strong historical roots, well-established neighborhoods, superb schools, and friendly neighbors. Located within the suburban ring of the eastern Kansas City metropolitan area, Raytown is ideally situated for an easy commute to major employment centers or world-class shopping, cultural, entertainment, and recreation amenities. Affordable housing options include well-kept older homes shaded by mature trees or newer construction. Lovely local parks provide picnic areas, ballfields, playgrounds, and tennis courts. Also available are golf courses and lakes for fishing and boating. The vast amenities of Swope Park in Kansas City are minutes from home, including Starlight Theatre and the Kansas City Zoo.
Sugar Creek
Municipal Offices
816-252-4400
www.sugar-creek.mo.us
Chamber of Commerce
816-221-2424
www.kcchamber.com
Sugar Creek is bordered by the city of Independence and the Missouri River. Highway 291, which bisects the town, and Interstate 24 provide quick and easy connections to other major thoroughfares. Residents have the advantage of a small-town atmosphere yet the regional healthcare facilities, expanded shopping opportunities, and convenient services of neighboring Independence are just minutes away. A portion of Sugar Creek is also encompassed by the Independence School District. Abundant options for higher education are close to home, including two- and four-year institutions that offer degree programs, specialized training, or non-credit continuing education courses for self-improvement or just learning new skills. Nearby parklands provide opportunities for hiking and horseback riding on designated trails, as well as lakes for boating and fishing, tennis courts, golf courses, playgrounds, and ballfields.
