Western Hills, Lawrence,KS

If you’re considering a move to Lawrence, KS, the Western Hills neighborhood in the northwest part of the city is definitely worth exploring. Known for its welcoming community vibe and well-kept homes, Western Hills offers a comfortable and peaceful living experience. Families and professionals alike appreciate the neighborhood’s quiet streets and mature trees, which create a charming, small-town feel within easy reach of city amenities. The area boasts several parks and green spaces, perfect for weekend strolls or outdoor activities with the kids. Plus, the local schools have a great reputation, making it an attractive spot for families relocating to Lawrence.

One of the standout features of Western Hills is its proximity to popular attractions and conveniences. Residents enjoy easy access to the Lawrence Outdoor Aquatic Center, a fantastic spot for cooling off in the summer and participating in community events. The neighborhood is also near the popular Rock Chalk Park Sports Complex, which hosts numerous sporting events and recreational opportunities for all ages. For those who love shopping and dining, Western Hills is just a short drive from the bustling areas filled with unique local shops, coffee spots, and a wide range of restaurants that showcase the city’s vibrant food scene.

Getting to Downtown Lawrence from Western Hills is a breeze, with just a quick 10 to 15-minute drive, depending on traffic. This means residents can enjoy the best of both worlds: a serene suburban atmosphere paired with easy access to the lively downtown area. Whether you’re heading out for live music, farmers markets, or cultural events, downtown Lawrence is close enough to make spontaneous trips convenient. Overall, Western Hills offers a perfect blend of tranquility, amenities, and accessibility, making it a fantastic choice for anyone looking to plant roots in the Lawrence area.

In Western Hills, 28% of residents aged 16 and older are married, which is notably higher than the national average. This could point to a more settled, community-driven neighborhood where long-term residents and homeowners are common. It’s the kind of place where stability, and a close-knit atmosphere make it especially appealing to families and couples looking to put down roots.

With only 28% of people over 16 having children, you can expect an easygoing environment that tends to attract residents seeking a quieter lifestyle. The atmosphere here leans more toward adult-oriented living. Without the constant rhythm of school schedules or kid-centered events, the community maintains a slower, more relaxed pace. This makes it especially appealing to singles, couples, and empty nesters who appreciate tranquil streets, and recreation on their own terms.

Western Hills demographics offer valuable insights into the character and lifestyle of the neighborhood, helping you understand who lives there and what daily life might feel like. Home to only about 607 residents, Western Hills is notably smaller than many other Lawrence neighborhoods, creating a more peaceful and community-oriented atmosphere. Its lower population can translate to quieter streets, a more relaxed pace of life, and easier access to local amenities — all without sacrificing the vibrant urban lifestyle the city is known for.

Western Hills has a population density of 4,054, which strikes a balanced feel when compared to other Lawrence neighborhoods. The area offers just the right mix of activity and breathing room, creating a community that’s lively yet comfortable, with easy access to amenities and everyday conveniences.

With an average age of 43, you're likely to find a well-balanced community where multiple generations live side by side. This mix of age groups contributes to a neighborhood atmosphere that’s both active and welcoming, offering a blend of fresh perspectives and long-standing community values.

The Western Hills crime map provides an in-depth look at crime rates throughout the community, using block group data to reveal both safer pockets and places with more frequent incidents. By visualizing these patterns, the crime map helps residents and newcomers alike better understand the dynamics of neighborhood safety. It’s worth noting that higher-crime areas on the map aren’t always indicative of danger — spots near busy commercial centers, transportation hubs, or popular attractions may naturally show more reports due to increased activity.

Housing prices can reveal a lot about the balance and overall appeal of a neighborhood. In Western Hills, the median home price is about $367,150, which is on par with many comparable areas. This average pricing reflects a stable, affordable housing market and makes the neighborhood an appealing choice for a wide range of buyers seeking both value and long-term potential. Examining how home prices and appreciation rates in Western Hills have shifted over time can reveal important clues about the neighborhood’s future value. These trends help potential buyers and investors understand market momentum and determine whether the area is likely to deliver strong returns over the long term.

The median rent is around $1,334, which is on par with many comparable neighborhoods. This balanced pricing offers a mix of affordability and value, making it a practical choice for a wide range of renters.

School ratings in Western Hills combine factors like student performance, graduation rates, and standardized test scores to provide a clear picture of overall educational quality. The use of NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) scores adds valuable context by offering a consistent national benchmark to see how local schools compare on a broader scale. Additionally, understanding the overall education level achieved by residents in Western Hills can give insight into the community’s priorities and opportunities, helping families make more informed decisions about where to live and how well local schools may support long-term student success.