No, Kansas City is not expensive to live in. The overall cost of living here is 9.9% lower than the national average.
Student housing in Kansas City includes various safety features like gated access, surveillance cameras, secure locks, and on-site management.
Most off-campus housing in Kansas City has different pet policies. So make sure you check the property policies carefully before you rent the place out.
To extend your stay in your student housing in Kansas City, contact amber to check availability and sort out the details. Please note that extensions are subject to availability and might incur additional charges.
When booking Kansas City student housing, check its proximity to your campus. Also, check the amenities, the terms of the lease, and reviews of previous tenants.
Yes, you can request a virtual tour or detailed photos on the amber app. Amber offers video walkthroughs to help students make informed decisions.
You should start looking for off-campus housing in Kansas City 6-9 months before the beginning of your academic term. This gives you enough time to explore various options, secure a place that fits your needs, and avoid last-minute stress.
Multiple payment options like net banking and debit cards are available. Our payment portal assists students with the procedure to find the best student housing in Kansas City. For a detailed explanation, watch our video on how to pay for student accommodation when you choose to book your top student housing in Kansas City.
The rent in most private student housing in Kansas City covers housing costs. It may or may not include utilities like water, electricity, and internet.
If your student housing in Kansas City doesn’t meet expectations, contact the property manager or amber to report the issues. You can document any discrepancies and request a resolution, which might include a refund, a change of housing, or compensation.
Kansas City is one of the largest cities in the Midwest. It is popular for its affordable living, jazz history, and a growing job market. Kansas is a student-friendly city. It has institutions like the Kansas City Art Institute (KCAI), the University of Missouri–Kansas City (UMKC), and Rockhurst University. With a rising student population of 30,000+ across universities, demand for housing remains high. Usually, the on-campus housing gets full quickly. Students then look for off-campus apartments near campus in the city.
Amber steps in here to provide reliable Missouri student housing. The platform provides 100% verified listings and easy-to-use filters. You can choose from a private studio, a shared apartment, or a spacious 1-bedroom or 2-bedroom unit. Off-campus residences in Kansas City are close to universities and famous student hangout spots. A few of the top Kansas City student housing are International and Senate At The Crosswalks. These properties are provided by PMGs like ACC and Tripalink.
The city is a major hub for education, business, and the arts. It is home to over 510,000 people, most of them being students. Dating back to the early 1800s, Kansas City was initially a key trading post along the Missouri River. It was during the 1920s and 1930s, when it was recognized for its jazz music. Today, the city has become a major attraction for international students who come here to attend the Kansas City Art Institute (KCAI), the University of Missouri–Kansas City (UMKC), and Rockhurst University.
The city is quite safe for students. Neighborhoods such as Brookside, Waldo, and Country Club Plaza are safe and have affordable Kansas City student housing options. On the other hand, areas like Westport and Crossroads Arts District buzz with cafés, local boutiques, and art galleries. One will also find many things to do here. Have a picnic at Loose Park or walk along the Missouri Riverfront. Be assured that you won't have a dull moment in this city.
At the best student housing in Kansas City, you get privacy, a chance to socialize, and access to top amenities. Amber makes the search for student accommodation in Kansas City easy. You get options for studios and 1B, 2B, 3B, and 4B apartments. You’ll get verified listings with real photos and reviews from actual students. Here are some of the best Kansas City student housing options.
| Property | Room Types | Amenities | Starting Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arc On Armour | Studio and 1B & 2B | Fitness center, elevator, and luxer room | $1000/month |
| Westover At The Crosswalks | Studio and 1B & 2B | Resident lounge, bike storage, and parking | $1025/month |
| The Newbern | Studio and 1B & 2B | Laundry center, swimming pool, and elevator | $915/month |
| Cavalier At The Crosswalks | Studio and 1B & 2B | Music room, pet spa, and outdoor fire pit | $1010/month |
| Century Towers | 1B and 2B | Gourmet coffee cafe, group study rooms, and key card access | $839/month |
Kansas City also has several budget-friendly housing options. Amber helps you find the best and cheap student apartments in Kansas City. You can sort by price using filters. The listings are clear, so you know exactly what you get for your money. Here are some options for affordable Kansas City student housing.
| Property | Room Types | Amenities | Starting Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Windemere | Studio and 1B | Fitness center, laundry center, and resident lounge | $710/month |
| Del Monte | Studio and 1B | Swimming pool, laundry center, and air conditioning | $765/month |
| Ricardo | Studio and 1B & 2B | Parking, stainless steel appliances, and wood laminate floors | $795/month |
| Westport Central | Studio and 1B | Bike storage, elevator, and parking | $800/month |
| Park Central | Studio and 1B | Resident lounge, laundry center, and swimming pool | $895/month |
Kansas City has a range of lively neighborhoods that are perfect for international students. These areas are close to campus, downtown spots, and parks. Below, we've listed some of the best places to live in Kansas City:
| Neighborhood | Key Highlights | Monthly Rent |
|---|---|---|
| Midtown – Plaza District | Close to the University of Missouri–Kansas City and Rockhurst University; cafes, restaurants, shops at Country Club Plaza | $1,100 – $1,600/month |
| Downtown Kansas City | Central hub with entertainment, dining, and cultural spots like Power & Light District; served by KC Streetcar | $1,300 – $1,900/month |
| Westport | Lively area with nightlife, shops, and eateries; ~5-minute drive to UMKC; good transport links | $1,000 – $1,500/month |
| Brookside | Quiet, residential area with tree-lined streets, markets, and cafes; close to campus with bus access | $950 – $1,400/month |
Kansas City has a variety of student housing choices. These options fit different lifestyles, budgets, and preferences. Amber provides fully furnished, high-quality rooms. On the amber platform, students can filter out rooms based on their proximity to universities. Here are the room types available in Kansas City:
1. Private Rooms - These include a bed, study desk, and a private bathroom. It is ideal for students who want independence while staying connected with others.
2. Studios - These are fully self-contained spaces with a bedroom, bathroom, and compact kitchen. If you prefer a full independent living setup, this is your pick.
3. 1-Bed or 2-Bed Apartments - These apartments have one or two separate bedrooms along with a shared kitchen, bathroom, and often a living room. Perfect for those of you who want a little privacy with access to social areas.
4. 4-Bedroom Apartments - You get four individual bedrooms and shared common spaces like the kitchen, living room, and bathrooms. You can opt for this if you want to live with your friends.
It is important for students to understand the cost of living in off-campus residences in Kansas City. With so many expenses to consider, students must budget properly. Careful planning can help with managing unnecessary expenditures in the city. The average cost of living here is around $1,500 - $3,000 per month. Below is a breakdown of the expenses you might incur in this city.
1. Off-campus housing: $800 - $1,480 per month
2. Food & Groceries: $200 - $250 per month
3. Transportation: $35 - $155 per month
4. Utilities: $100 - $150 per month
5. Clothing: $50 - $70 per month
6. Sports & Leisure: $20 - $50 per month
You’ll find several travel options in Kansas City. These include buses, trains, and cabs. These modes of travel make traveling easier and more convenient for students. No matter where you’re going, be it the university, hangout spots, or nearby cities, there are plenty of options available:
| Transport Mode | Key Details | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Bus | Run by RideKC; connects major neighborhoods, universities, and shopping areas, including the University of Missouri–Kansas City and Rockhurst University | From $1.50 per ride; student discounts and monthly passes available by RideKC for $62.50 |
| KC Streetcar | KC Streetcar runs through downtown, connecting River Market, Power & Light District, and Union Station; expansion planned toward UMKC | Free |
| Ridesharing & Micro-Mobility | Services like Uber and Lyft, plus e-scooters and bike-share programs available | Variable pricing (generally affordable for short trips) |
You will experience an energetic and affordable student life in Kansas City. Areas around the University of Missouri–Kansas City feature a variety of cafes, study spots, and eateries. The city is very welcoming and has a relatively lower cost of living compared to other US cities. Here’s a Kansas City guide for you:
1. Dining & Nightlife
Kansas City is known for its world-famous barbecue! You must visit Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que and Q39. The Power & Light District is filled with restaurants, clubs, and music venues. You can even explore local breweries and coffee shops in Westport or the Crossroads Arts District.
2. Cultural Events & Festivals
Students can explore the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, the National WWI Museum and Memorial, and the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts. There are also festivals like the Plaza Art Fair, Kansas City Jazz & Heritage Festival, and Boulevardia Beer Festival that you must attend.
3. Adventure & Green Spaces
Love the outdoors? Loose Park and Swope Park are perfect for picnics. You can also explore the Kaw Point Park to enjoy river views or hike at the Weston Bend State Park.
4. Shopping
Trendy boutiques, malls, and vintage finds - you'll not run out of shopping spots in this city. The Country Club Plaza is where you’ll get upscale brands and amazing eateries. Crown Center and Zona Rosa have many retail and entertainment options. The River Market District has unique goods, farmers’ markets, and artisan crafts.
Kansas City has many prestigious institutions of higher learning. It's an ideal destination for students from around the world seeking quality education. The city's universities provide a range of courses that cater to students’ dreams! Here are some of the top universities in Kansas City.
| University | Key Details | Top Courses |
|---|---|---|
| University of Missouri–Kansas City (UMKC) | Leading public research university with a diverse student body and strong industry connections | Business, Health Sciences, Law, Performing Arts |
| Rockhurst University | Private Jesuit university focused on academic excellence, ethics, and leadership | Business, Nursing, Education |
| Kansas City Art Institute (KCAI) | Nationally recognized fine arts college with strong ties to the local art community | Design, Animation, Illustration, Sculpture |