What are the key things to know about moving from Long Island to Kansas City?

Moving from Long Island to Kansas City means trading high housing costs, congestion, and coastal living for a centrally located metro known for affordability, strong job growth, and an easy, family-friendly lifestyle. Kansas City offers space, stability, and a surprisingly vibrant culture — but the pace, housing market, and climate will feel very different from life on Long Island.

Cost of Living & Lifestyle Comparison

Kansas City is dramatically more affordable than Long Island, especially when it comes to housing.

Here’s what most Long Islanders notice immediately:

  • Home prices are often 50–65% lower

  • Property taxes are moderate and predictable by county

  • Missouri and Kansas both have state income taxes, but overall monthly costs are far lower

  • Utilities, groceries, dining, and entertainment are very affordable

  • Parking is easy and typically free

Lifestyle-wise, Kansas City feels more relaxed and practical.

Expect:

  • Short commute times

  • Less traffic stress

  • Larger homes and lots

  • A strong sense of neighborhood pride

  • A slower, more balanced pace of life

Many New Yorkers describe Kansas City as “easy living” — less hustle, more breathing room.

Employment & Opportunities

Kansas City has a diverse and resilient economy with steady growth.

Key industries include:

  • Healthcare

  • Technology

  • Engineering

  • Finance and insurance

  • Logistics and distribution

  • Agriculture and food production

Major employers include:

  • Cerner (Oracle Health)

  • HCA Midwest Health

  • Hallmark Cards (headquarters)

  • Garmin

  • Burns & McDonnell

  • Honeywell

  • T-Mobile (regional presence)

Remote workers are increasingly relocating to Kansas City due to affordability, central location, and strong infrastructure.

Education & Schools

Families moving from Long Island will find solid public and private education options, especially in suburban districts.

Highly regarded school districts include:

  • Blue Valley School District (KS)

  • Shawnee Mission School District (KS)

  • Park Hill School District (MO)

  • Lee’s Summit School District (MO)

  • Olathe School District (KS)

Private and parochial schools are also common.

Higher education options include:

  • University of Missouri–Kansas City (UMKC)

  • Rockhurst University

  • Kansas City University

  • Avila University

Families often choose Kansas-side suburbs for schools, newer housing, and long-term stability.

Real Estate Practices: What’s Different?

Buying a home in the Kansas City metro is far simpler than on Long Island.

Key differences include:

  • Attorneys are not required; title companies handle closings

  • Faster contract-to-close timelines

  • Much lower purchase prices with room for upgrades

  • Larger lots and newer suburban developments

  • Basements are common and often finished

  • HOAs are typical in newer communities

Many Long Island buyers are surprised by how much house — and land — they can afford in Kansas City.

Eric Berman REALTOR® can connect you with trusted Kansas City–area agents who understand relocation needs and local micro-markets.

Logistics of the Move

Relocating from Long Island to Kansas City is a long-distance move but straightforward.

Prepare for:

  • A car-dependent lifestyle

  • Hot, humid summers and cold winters

  • Occasional severe weather (thunderstorms and tornado watches)

  • Much easier daily driving and parking

  • Kansas City International Airport with direct flights to NYC

The climate brings four true seasons, but infrastructure is designed for weather changes.

Community & Quality of Life

Kansas City offers a strong sense of community and livability.

Popular neighborhoods and suburbs include:

  • Overland Park (KS): Top schools, family-friendly, newer homes

  • Leawood (KS): Upscale suburban living

  • Prairie Village (KS): Charming, close to the city

  • Lee’s Summit (MO): Affordable, growing, strong schools

  • Liberty (MO): Historic charm and suburban feel

  • Brookside: Walkable, tree-lined, local shops

  • Downtown KC / Crossroads: Urban living and arts scene

Lifestyle highlights:

  • Renowned food scene (barbecue, yes — but also diverse dining)

  • Thriving arts and jazz culture

  • Pro sports teams and major events

  • Expansive parks and green space

  • A welcoming, down-to-earth community vibe

Kansas City appeals to those seeking affordability, stability, and space without sacrificing culture.

Tips for a Smooth Transition

  • Decide early between Kansas-side and Missouri-side suburbs

  • Visit neighborhoods to understand commute patterns

  • Prepare for weather changes across seasons

  • Review school district boundaries carefully

  • Work with Eric Berman REALTOR® to connect with vetted local experts

Your Move to Kansas City

Relocating from Long Island to Kansas City offers a major lifestyle reset — lower costs, more space, and a calmer pace of life. With a stable job market, strong schools, and a growing cultural scene, Kansas City is an increasingly attractive option for families, professionals, and remote workers.

With Eric Berman REALTOR® guiding your relocation, you’ll have trusted insight, strong local connections, and expert support every step of the way.

FAQs

1. Is Kansas City much cheaper than Long Island?
Yes — housing and everyday expenses are significantly lower. For a personalized comparison, visit 👉 https://www.theericbermanteam.com/contact-us.

2. Are Kansas or Missouri suburbs better for families?
Both offer strong options, but Blue Valley, Overland Park, and Lee’s Summit are especially popular. Learn more at 👉 https://www.theericbermanteam.com/contact-us.

3. What is the weather like in Kansas City compared to Long Island?
Expect hotter summers, colder winters, and more dramatic seasonal shifts. For relocation prep tips, reach out via 👉 https://www.theericbermanteam.com/contact-us.

4. How does the home-buying process differ from New York?
Closings are faster and handled by title companies instead of attorneys. Learn more at 👉 https://www.theericbermanteam.com/contact-us.

5. Is Kansas City a good place to buy a home right now?
Yes — affordability and steady demand support long-term value. For current market insight, contact 👉 https://www.theericbermanteam.com/contact-us.

Eric Berman, REALTOR®
Compass Greater NY
917-225-8596
eric@ericbermanre.com
www.theericbermanteam.com