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

Lawrence, KS Quality of Life Liv Score 613 How We Calculate Our Data |
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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.
The University of Kansas, Maximus, LMH Health and Hallmark are some of Lawrence’s largest employers.
University of Kansas & Haskell Indian Nations University
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.
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
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.”
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?
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
- 19.2
- Median Home Value
- $285,166
- Med. Household Income
- $51,700
- Total Population
- 97,582
- Walk Score
- 38
- Median Property Tax
- $1,364