Lee’s Summit, MOBest Places To Live in the U.S. in 2023
Right outside Kansas City, Lee’s Summit is a charming city offering a safe, family-friendly environment with an affordable price tag. Boasting beautiful parks, a historic downtown and a low crime rate, Lee’s Summit welcomes residents with open arms.
More About Living in Missouri
Lee’s Summit, MO, Is One of the Best Cities To Live in America
A charming downtown that blends revitalized historic buildings, murals and sculptures, and unique stores, cafes and restaurants is just one of the many reasons Lee’s Summit, MO, is one of the best places to live in the U.S. The city has a friendly, small-town, Midwestern feel with traditional suburban neighborhoods for families and an active downtown with apartments and condos near a bustling Main Street. Together, these give Lee’s Summit an urban energy and suburban sensibility that is hard to beat.
Lee’s Summit is attractive for young families and professionals looking to start a family thanks to its high marks in education. The Lee’s Summit R-7 School District is one of Missouri’s largest and most highly regarded school districts. In addition, the schools and local hospitals are some of the largest employers in the area, and locals have easy access to top-notch care.
With Kansas City nearby, residents have reasonable commute times and access to bigger-city amenities. But there is plenty to do in town, too. Lee’s Summit offers abundant recreational opportunities, including access to several lakes, parks and wildlife areas. In recent years the community’s downtown has been revitalized to help foster a strong sense of community and a friendly, welcoming atmosphere. Going from Fourth Friday Art Walks to fishing, riding ATVs or boating on Saturday morning makes Lee’s Summit a great place to live, no matter your interests.
Lee’s Summit, MO Quality of Life LivScore
Lee’s Summit, MO Top Categories
Economy
Transportation
Health
Lee’s Summit ranks highest for economy, transportation and health.
Weather and Outdoor Activities in Lee’s Summit, MO
Residents enjoy four distinct seasons in Lee’s Summit. The average highs and lows are 87°F and 65°F (summer) and 41°F and 21°F (winter).
The average annual snowfall in Lee’s Summit is 14 inches per year, and the heaviest snowfall occurs during December and January.
The average annual rainfall in Lee’s Summit is 43 inches, with May and June being the wettest months.
Lee’s Summit averages 219 sunny days a year.
Learn about Civil War-era life at the Missouri Town Living History Museum. Check their calendar for special events like cooking demonstrations, sheep shearing and more. Or stretch your legs at the James A. Reed Memorial Wildlife Area, which has more than 3,000 acres and 12 lakes for fishing and boating, plus hiking and biking trails.
Lee’s Summit Weather
214 days
Average Annual Sun
43 inches
Average Annual Rain
14 inches
Average Annual Snow
Things To Do in Lee’s Summit, MO
Lee’s Summit is a creative city. There is a lot of public art to check out, from sculptures to murals, and every summer, they bring in new pieces for a downtown sculpture walk. Also, on the fourth Friday of the month, galleries open their doors, and there are local artist pop-ups and live music.
Create the perfect scent and pour your own candle at Embers Candle Bar. Go in on your own or make it a group outing and figure out the smells and ratios to craft your unique creation.
There’s nothing like getting a big order of takeout from Jazzy B’s and setting up a picnic with friends at Lake Jacomo. Barbecue is meant to be eaten al fresco and with great company. Beyond the smoked meats, the crab balls, crispy grilled cheese sandwiches and brisket tacos are must-try items.
It doesn’t get much cozier or inviting than Whistlestop Coffee Shop and Mercantile on Main Street. The extensive food menu and unique latte flavors like rose pistachio, bananas foster and brownie batter will keep you warm and caffeinated.
The Local and State Economy in Lee’s Summit, MO
The major industries in Lee’s Summit are health care, education and retail. Some major employers include Saint Luke’s Health System, Metcalf Bank and Fike Corporation, a global supplier of industrial safety products with a manufacturing plant in town.
In 2023, the sales tax rate in Lee’s Summit is 8.49%.
Yes, Missouri has a state income tax.
Residents are in good health in Lee’s Summit thanks to the city’s wealth of top-tier health care providers, including Saint Luke’s East Hospital and Lee’s Summit Medical Center.
Although there aren’t any major colleges or universities in Lee’s Summit, there are several higher-education institutions in nearby Kansas City.
Quick Facts About Lee’s Summit, MO
- Median Household Income
- $92,496
- Median Home Value
- $261,353
- Average State Property Tax
- $1,676
- Total Population
- 101,052
- Median Rent/Mo.
- $913
- Average Commute
- 22.46 minutes
Lee’s Summit earned its spot due to its highly regarded school districts and great health care options. Lee’s Summit is one of only two Missouri cities on the list. Learn more about living in Missouri and consider more 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.
