Leawood is one of the crown jewels of the Kansas City metro area. Known for its beautiful neighborhoods, upscale amenities, and convenient access to both downtown KC and Johnson County's shopping and recreation hubs, it combines suburban tranquility with a refined, urban edge. Its tree-lined streets and a reputation for elegance attract those who value both comfort and sophistication.
The city lies on the south side of the metro, between the Missouri state line on the east and Overland Park on the west — about 15 square miles and 34,000 residents. It takes its name from Oscar G. Lee, a retired police chief who came to Johnson County in the 1920s and built Lee Boulevard; a Kroh Brothers development followed, and Leawood incorporated in 1948 with fewer than 2,000 people. Come see what this chic bedroom community has to offer!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Leawood, Kansas, a good place to live?
Leawood consistently ranks among the safest and most affluent communities in Kansas. With roughly 34,000 residents across 15 square miles, it offers top-ranked Blue Valley schools, more than a million square feet of upscale shopping at Town Center Plaza and Park Place, six parks and an 8.2-mile trail system, and quick access to downtown KC and Johnson County's job centers.
What school districts serve Leawood, Kansas?
Two top-ranked districts, depending on address. Most of Leawood is in Blue Valley (USD 229), ranked #1 in Kansas by Niche, with Blue Valley North High School frequently named the state's top public high school. Northern Leawood is served by Shawnee Mission (USD 512), a top-five district. Private options include Pembroke Hill and Notre Dame de Sion. Always verify boundaries by address before buying.
What is Leawood, Kansas, known for?
Upscale shopping at Town Center Plaza and Park Place, top-ranked Blue Valley schools, tree-lined streets from classic ranches to custom estates, Ironwoods Park and its Challenge Course, the Ironhorse Golf Club and two country clubs, the United Methodist Church of the Resurrection, and traditions like the Taste of Leawood and the Into the Night Fall Festival.
How far is Leawood from downtown Kansas City?
About 20–25 minutes from downtown Kansas City, and roughly 15 minutes to the Country Club Plaza from Old Leawood. The city sits between the Missouri state line on the east and Overland Park on the west, with easy access via I-435 and State Line Road.
What are the best neighborhoods in Leawood?
Hallbrook and Hallbrook Farms are the most exclusive, with custom estates and a private country club. Old Leawood, north of 103rd Street, offers established mid-century and Colonial Revival homes on walkable blocks. Leawood Estates, Nottingham Forest, The Cloisters, Mission Farms, and Leawood South anchor the central corridor. For newer construction, look south of 135th Street to Camden Woods, Siena, Tuscany Reserve, and Aventino.
What are the best restaurants in Leawood?
Rye, 801 Chophouse, Joe's KC BBQ, Red Door Woodfired Grill, Plate Italiano Moderno at Park Place, Bristol Seafood Grill, HomeGrown Kitchen, Sullivan's Steakhouse, Urban Egg, Local Lime, Outta the Blue, and Summer Salt Ice Cream Company. The Taste of Leawood each September samples 30+ of them in one night.
What are typical home prices in Leawood?
The median sale price sits in the low-to-mid $700Ks and has been trending up, with listings from roughly $475K to $3.25M. Old Leawood runs from the $600s to $2M+, newer south Leawood construction from the $750s to $2M+, and Hallbrook is typically $1M and up. Inventory is tight, and well-priced homes often sell within a few weeks.