Introduction

Investing in rental properties can be a lucrative venture, offering both steady income and long-term appreciation. However, the success of such investments often hinges on selecting the right property in the right location. A good rental property typically combines a desirable location, affordability, strong rental demand, and potential for appreciation. Location is particularly crucial as it influences the property's attractiveness to tenants, the rental rates you can charge, and the property's future value.

Johnson County, Kansas, is an excellent area to consider for rental property investments. Known for its high quality of life, excellent schools, and strong economy, this county offers various neighborhoods and areas, each with unique characteristics and investment potential. In this guide, we will explore some of the best neighborhoods in Johnson County, grading them on several important criteria.

Best Neighborhoods and Areas in Johnson County, KS

1. Overland Park

• Convenience: A
• Tourist Attractions: B
• Things to Do: A
• Average Home Prices: C
• Return on Investment: B
• Proximity to Work-Related Travel: A
• X-Factor: A

Convenience: Overland Park boasts excellent transportation infrastructure, making commuting easy. It has a wide range of amenities, including shopping centers, restaurants, and healthcare facilities.

Tourist Attractions: While not a major tourist hub, Overland Park offers attractions like the Overland Park Arboretum and Botanical Gardens, the Deanna Rose Children's Farmstead, and various parks.

Things to Do: Residents can enjoy numerous recreational activities, including parks, golf courses, and cultural institutions like the Nerman Museum of Contemporary Art.

Average Home Prices: Home prices in Overland Park are higher than in some other parts of Johnson County, which can impact initial investment costs.

Return on Investment: Despite higher home prices, strong rental demand and appreciation potential provide a solid return on investment.

Proximity to Work-Related Travel: Overland Park is close to major highways and business districts, making it ideal for professionals.

X-Factor: The area's excellent schools and family-friendly atmosphere make it particularly desirable for families, enhancing rental demand.

2. Olathe

• Convenience: B
• Tourist Attractions: C
• Things to Do: B
• Average Home Prices: B
• Return on Investment: B
• Proximity to Work-Related Travel: B
• X-Factor: B

Convenience: Olathe offers good transportation options and access to essential services. It’s slightly less convenient than Overland Park but still very accessible.

Tourist Attractions: Attractions include the Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop & Farm Historic Site and several parks, though it’s not a major tourist destination.

Things to Do: Olathe provides various recreational activities, including parks, trails, and community events.

Average Home Prices: Home prices are more affordable compared to Overland Park, offering better entry points for investors.

Return on Investment: Lower home prices combined with steady rental demand ensure a good return on investment.

Proximity to Work-Related Travel: While not as central as Overland Park, Olathe still offers reasonable access to major business centers and highways.

X-Factor: Olathe’s growing community and ongoing development projects enhance its appeal and potential for appreciation.

3. Lenexa

• Convenience: B
• Tourist Attractions: C
• Things to Do: B
• Average Home Prices: B
• Return on Investment: B
• Proximity to Work-Related Travel: B
• X-Factor: B

Convenience: Lenexa provides good access to highways and public services, making it a convenient place to live.

Tourist Attractions: Lenexa isn’t a primary tourist spot but offers local attractions such as parks and annual events like the Great Lenexa BBQ Battle.

Things to Do: The area has a variety of parks, recreational facilities, and community activities.

Average Home Prices: Home prices in Lenexa are relatively moderate, offering good investment opportunities.

Return on Investment: A balanced market with steady demand ensures a solid return on investment.

Proximity to Work-Related Travel: Lenexa’s location provides good access to major business districts and transportation networks.

X-Factor: The community-focused atmosphere and continuous development projects make Lenexa an appealing choice for renters and investors alike.

4. Shawnee

• Convenience: B
• Tourist Attractions: C
• Things to Do: B
• Average Home Prices: B
• Return on Investment: B
• Proximity to Work-Related Travel: B
• X-Factor: B

Convenience: Shawnee offers decent convenience with access to essential services and amenities.

Tourist Attractions: The area has some local attractions, including parks and historical sites, but isn’t a major tourist draw.

Things to Do: Residents enjoy parks, trails, and community events, providing a good quality of life.

Average Home Prices: Shawnee’s home prices are reasonable, making it accessible for investors.

Return on Investment: Steady rental demand and affordable home prices contribute to a good return on investment.

Proximity to Work-Related Travel: Shawnee is well-connected to major highways and business districts, offering good proximity for work-related travel.

X-Factor: Shawnee’s mix of suburban charm and ongoing development enhances its desirability and investment potential.

5. Prairie Village

• Convenience: A
• Tourist Attractions: B
• Things to Do: B
• Average Home Prices: C
• Return on Investment: B
• Proximity to Work-Related Travel: A
• X-Factor: A

Convenience: Prairie Village is highly convenient, with excellent access to shopping, dining, and public services.

Tourist Attractions: While not a primary tourist destination, Prairie Village offers parks and community events that attract visitors.

Things to Do: The area boasts a variety of recreational activities, including parks, shopping centers, and cultural events.

Average Home Prices: Home prices are higher, which can impact initial investment costs.

Return on Investment: Despite higher home prices, strong demand and appreciation potential provide a solid return on investment.

Proximity to Work-Related Travel: Prairie Village’s central location offers excellent access to major business areas and transportation networks.

X-Factor: The charming, community-focused atmosphere and high quality of life make Prairie Village a particularly attractive area for renters and investors.

Conclusion

Johnson County, KS, offers a range of neighborhoods with varying characteristics and investment potentials. From the family-friendly and highly convenient Overland Park to the charming and community-focused Prairie Village, each area presents unique opportunities for investors. By carefully considering factors such as convenience, tourist attractions, things to do, average home prices, return on investment, proximity to work-related travel, and unique attributes, investors can unlock the full potential of rental properties in this thriving region.