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Since July 2023, the population estimate of Overland Park, Kansas, has been rising and falling by less than 1%. 

In contrast to other big cities, where the net negative migration rate is often over 5%, many people are not moving out of Overland Park as much as they move in.

Between July and September 2024, over 100 people moved from Seattle to Overland Park. This number doubled with Los Angeles as more than 260 people moved to Overland Park.

So…

What about this city makes it an intriguing alternative to the urban life typical of these other big cities? 

Why are many people moving from densely populated urban areas searching for a better quality of life in Overland Park?

Here are compelling reasons you too might consider moving to Overland Park.

1. Family is Prioritized Here

Overland Park is popular for its family-oriented atmosphere, with enough opportunities for children to play and grow. 

Your kids will always have activities to engage in on their school-free days, as there are numerous parks, playgrounds, and community centers here.

Some of these places include:

• Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead,
• OakPark Mall, and
• Overland Park Arboretum and Botanical Gardens.

As an adult, you also don’t get relegated to the background, many recreational areas and sights for you are available. 

Moreover, the city also hosts various family-friendly events throughout the year, like summer movie nights and holiday celebrations. In turn, this makes it even easier for families to connect and create lasting memories.

2. You Get One of the Best Education Systems

Why move to Overland Park, you ask? If education is a significant factor for your family, Overland Park doesn’t disappoint.

Well, most of the educational institutes here are in the top 10% of public schools in the state and country. Plus, the city has over 22,300 students enrolled, so you can expect a strong curriculum and dedicated teachers.

The Shawnee Mission School District serves the area and is consistently ranked among the best in the state (better than 88.6% of all Kansas school districts).

Another one; the Blue Valley School District, also in Overland Bank, has a school quality rating better than 91.8% of all U.S. school districts.

3. Affordable Cost of Living

If you have lived in places like Boston, New York City, or San Francisco, moving to Overland Park is like discovering the cheat code of life. 

You get to save over 40% more from your living costs than you would in these other cities. Isn’t this good enough a reason to hit up at least one of the moving companies Overland Park has?

Compared to major metropolitan areas, the cost of living is about 2% lower than the national average. Significantly making it easier to afford a larger home or more luxurious options than you might in cities like San Francisco or Seattle. 

This financial freedom allows residents to enjoy a better quality of life without the hefty price tag.

 

Expense Category	Compared to the National Average
Housing	18% lower
Food and Groceries	22% lower
Utilities	15% lower
Healthcare	22% lower
Transportation	9% lower

4. A Thriving Job Market

Overland Park, Missouri, boasts a burgeoning economy with a median household income greater than the national average. 

That’s not even all! 

Job opportunities are readily available in the professional services like healthcare, finance, and retail sectors.

The low employment rate is due to the major corporations here, including Sprint and Garmin, which provide ample job opportunities in various sectors. 

Moreover, Overland Park’s proximity to Kansas City means that residents can access a broader job market without the daily grind of city living.

• Median Household Income: $100,876
• Unemployment Rate: 3.1%
• Poverty Rate: 4.2%

 

5. Crime is Low, Safety is High

Given the merits of moving here, it’s not out of place to wonder, ‘Is Overland Park, Kansas, a good place to live?’ 

Well, if safety is a top priority (as it should be), you have nothing to worry about!

The violent crime rate is lower than the national average, and the police department is on the ground to defuse any situation that could keep residents restless. 

However, while families can feel secure allowing their children to explore their neighborhood or walk to school, you need to be extra watchful for petty thefts as property crime is slightly above the national average.

 

per 1,000 residents	Overland Park Average	Kansas Average	National Average
Violent Crime	2.22	4.15	4.0
Property Crime	23.9	19.92	20.0

Conclusion: Your Reason to Move

Moving to a new city is a big decision, but Overland Park, Kansas, offers compelling reasons to make that leap. 

From its family-friendly atmosphere, excellent education quality, and affordable cost of living to its thriving job market, this city is loaded with benefits and advantages.

So, if you’re considering a move from a bustling urban environment, why not explore the delightful possibilities of moving to Overland Park? 

You might just find your new favorite place to call home here!