Green path on the University of Kansas campus in Lawrence KS

Best Places to Live in the US in 2022 Sponsored by: eXp RealtyeXp Realty

UPDATE: Check out our new 2023 Best Cities to Live in the U.S. list.

Lawrence, KS is the #61 Best City to Live in the USA

Dyche Hall Museum of Natural History on University of Kansas campus, Lawrence, KS
iStock/BergmannD
Lawrence, KS
Quality of Life
Liv Score

613
How We Calculate Our Data
Civics 57
Demographics 36
Economy 77
Education 68
Health 55
Housing 58
Infrastructure 35
Amenities 65

Why Lawrence is one of the best cities to live in

With a diversified economy, affordable housing options, strong educational system, excellent parks and recreation, and a thriving arts and entertainment scene, it’s no wonder Lawrence, KS, finds itself ranked among the best places to live in the U.S. A quintessential college town, Lawrence is home to the University of Kansas and exudes creativity and youthful exuberance. Jayhawks are everywhere and seem to multiply during basketball season when the Rock Chalk chant flows out of Allen Fieldhouse as KU looks for another NCAA championship. The city is also home to the premiere tribal university in the U.S. Haskell Indian Nations University was founded in 1884 to serve students from federally recognized tribes. Educational excellence begins with a commitment to K-12 students with three National Blue Ribbon Schools and a host of innovative programming. The city has enjoyed significant growth over the past decade as more and more people discover all Lawrence has to offer.

What are Lawrences major industries and employers?

The University of Kansas, Maximus, LMH Health and Hallmark are some of Lawrence’s largest employers.  

What are the major colleges and universities in Lawrence?

University of Kansas & Haskell Indian Nations University

What is the weather like in Lawrence? 

Wintery weather spans late November to mid-March, with an average annual snowfall of 13 inches. Highs run in the upper 80s during July and August, with the year’s balance being temperate. 

What is there to do outside in Lawrence?

Clinton State Park has outdoor options for all. Take advantage of 25 miles of hiking and biking trails and the 5-mile cross-country ski trail. If trails aren’t your thing, plenty of other activities can keep you busy; the park is also home to a golf course, an archery range, a mountain bike skills course, a beach, a swimming and fishing area, and a marina. 

Lawrence, KS is Remote-Ready

What makes Lawrence a great place for remote workers?

Incentivising relocating businesses is how Lawrence plans to diversify and strengthen their economy, which means more opportunities for relocating remote workers. The cost of living in Lawrence is well below the national average. In addition, over 25% of Lawrence’s population are between the ages of 18-24, making it a young city. Visit local coworking spaces Cider Gallery and Lawrence Center for Entrepreneurship.

What Locals Love in Lawrence, KS

What is the best local bookstore in Lawrence?

Not only is Raven Book Store beloved in Lawrence, but Publishers Weekly named it “Book Store of the Year” nationally for 2022. Launched in 1987 as a mystery bookstore, the Raven’s shelves are now stocked with all genres, but whodunnits maintain a strong presence. 

How do you spend a weekend in Lawrence?

Explore Downtown Lawrence filled with local shops, farmers markets, art installations, restaurants and nightlife options that help a fun afternoon transition into a great evening. Don’t miss Final Fridays, the last Friday of every month with pop-up galleries and entertainment throughout downtown and the Warehouse Arts District.

What can you do for free in Lawrence?

Step back in time by about 60 million years at the nationally recognized KU Natural History Museum with four floors of exhibits focused on Earth’s biodiversity, including a 45-foot-long Mosasaur sea reptile that once swam in Kansas.

Whats the best way to spend happy hour in Lawrence?

In a rock-and-roll pinball mood? Then the crew should definitely head to Replay Lounge for drinks and live music. Feeling a little more zen? Sip craft cocktails and sample Tuscan cuisine at 715.

Whats something only locals know about Lawrence?

Lawrence has high expectations. The official seal of Lawrence has a phoenix rising from the ashes, and the city’s motto is “From ashes to immortality.”

Is Lawrence, KS a good place to live?

An affordable cost of living, a diverse economy and excellent schools make Lawrence a best place to live in Kansas.

Thinking of Moving to Lawrence?

What is the Lawrence, KS real estate market like?

Wedged between the Kansas River and Clinton Lake, Lawrence real estate is surrounded by both big-city amenities and a close-knit community. East Lawrence showcases the city’s history through bungalows, cottages, and Victorian-style homes near the downtown amenities like local shops and restaurants. In contrast, West Lawrence homes for sale are much newer, but also close to many of the city’s shopping and dining amenities. If you’re looking for one-of-a-kind homes, you’ll find them in North Lawrence and South Lawrence is the most ideal for those commuting to Kansas City. There are several Lawrence real estate agents willing to help you find the right home for you.

Quick Facts About Lawrence, KS

Average Commute
14.05
Median Home Value
$221,734
Med. Household Income
$61,263
Total Population
95,790
Walk Score
38
Median Property Tax
$2,355

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