Lawrence, KSBest Places To Live in the U.S. in 2023
Located along the banks of the Kansas River, Lawrence is much more than a college town. With a bustling downtown, a robust economy and a friendly, inclusive community, Lawrence offers a blend of intellectual and small-town allure.
Lawrence, KS, Is One of the Best Cities To Live in America
Home to the flagship campus of the University of Kansas and Haskell Indian Nations University, Lawrence, KS, is an educational mecca with a commitment to learning that stretches to cover residents of all ages. Unsurprisingly, Lawrence ranks high in education on our index, but what makes this city one of the best places to live in the U.S. is the consistency of its high scores across all livability categories. Educational excellence begins with a commitment to K-12 students with several National Blue Ribbon Schools and a host of innovative programming. In addition, a robust economy with jobs in a variety of high-paying industries means great careers for residents, and a housing market that covers family homes alongside apartments and condos with a median housing cost of just over $277,000 means there’s no difficulty in finding an affordable place to live.
The university is a hub of creativity and activity that radiates into the community. Massachusetts Street — Mass Street to locals — is the center of the action, with shops, restaurants and galleries. That being said, Lawrence residents have ample chances to get out into nature, with more than 50 parks, and a concerted effort to make the town bike-friendly is underway. In addition, Lawrence residents know how to let off steam, and there’s pretty much always live music happening somewhere in the city.
If you’re looking for something sporty, the town is obsessed with men’s basketball — and Jayhawks seem to multiply during basketball season. But that’s not all there is to cheer for. The University of Kansas sponsors 16 different NCAA sports, and tickets to baseball, women’s basketball, softball, volleyball and more range from $5 to $20.
Lawrence, KS Quality of Life LivScore
Lawrence, KS Top Categories
Transportation
Housing & Cost of Living
Education
Lawrence ranks highest for transportation, housing and education.
Weather and Outdoor Activities in Lawrence, KS
It doesn’t get super snowy in Lawrence, but the city does experience strong, biting winds. As a result, expect long, hot summer days and pleasant but rainy transitions in spring and fall. The average highs and lows are 89°F and 69°F (summer) and 43°F and 24°F (winter).
The average annual snowfall in Lawrence is 15 inches per year, and January is typically the snowiest month.
The average annual rainfall in Lawrence is 39 inches, and May and June are the wettest months.
Lawrence averages 215 sunny days a year.
The city is working on completing a 22-mile loop around Lawrence with bike and walking trails. Any or all of the Lawrence Loop is a great way to get to know the city. In addition, the Baker University Wetlands are a great place to spot wildlife and get away from the bustle of the city.
Lawrence Weather
215 days
Average Annual Sun
39 inches
Average Annual Rain
15 inches
Average Annual Snow
Things To Do in Lawrence, KS
The New England Emigrant Aid Company founded Lawrence intending to ensure Kansas entered the Union as a free state. As a result, you’ll see references to “Free State” on everything from a film and music festival to the first brewery in the state since Prohibition.
One of the best things about living in a college town is all the amazing free things available on campus. At the University of Kansas, there are two art museums, plus the Biodiversity Institute & Natural History Museum. There are also Final Friday art walks, Buskerfest, and parades, including Art Tougeau and the Lawrence Christmas Parade.
In a city that prides itself on local art and artisans, the shop at Art Love Collective is a great place to find a wide array of locally crafted items all in one spot.
Decade Coffee uses all kinds of locally sourced ingredients — including the milk. Their food menu is seasonal, and in addition to a really great flat white and shaken espresso, they have wine and cocktails.
The Local and State Economy in Lawrence, KS
Lawrence has a diverse economy; major industries include education, health care and technology. Some of the major employers are the University of Kansas, LMH Health and Hallmark Cards.
In 2023, the sales tax rate in Lawrence is 9.3%.
Yes, Kansas has a state income tax.
LMH Health is Lawrence’s most prominent health care provider and has served the community for more than 100 years. It is a regional medical center providing a range of services, including emergency care, surgery, cancer treatment and women’s health services.
There are several colleges and universities in Lawrence, KS, including the University of Kansas and Haskell Indian Nations University.
Quick Facts About Lawrence, KS
- Median Household Income
- $61,263
- Median Home Value
- $221,734
- Average State Property Tax
- $2,355
- Total Population
- 95,790
- Median Rent/Mo.
- $754
- Average Commute
- 14.05 minutes
Excellent schools, ease of getting around and plenty of health care options all contribute to ranking Lawrence as one of the best places to live in the U.S. Learn more about Lawrence’s thriving arts scene or consider other great places to live in the Midwest. Another good resource as you consider a move: The Ultimate Guide To Finding Your Best Place To Live.
