Westwood, Lawrence,KS

Moving to Lawrence, KS, and considering the Westwood neighborhood? You’re in for a treat! Nestled in the southeast part of the city, Westwood offers a charming blend of suburban comfort and easy access to urban amenities. It’s a family-friendly area known for its peaceful streets and green spaces, making it perfect for those who value a quieter lifestyle without sacrificing convenience. The neighborhood boasts well-kept homes and an inviting community atmosphere where neighbors often come together for local events and activities.

One of the standout features of Westwood is its proximity to several parks and recreational spots. Residents enjoy nearby places like Centennial Park, which offers walking trails, playgrounds, and open spaces ideal for picnics or weekend relaxation. For those who love a bit of local culture and history, the neighborhood is just a short drive from the iconic Kansas University campus, where you can catch a Jayhawks game or explore the Spencer Museum of Art. Additionally, Westwood provides easy access to a variety of dining and shopping options, including cozy cafes and unique boutiques that add to the neighborhood’s charm.

Traveling to Downtown Lawrence from Westwood is a breeze, typically taking around 10-15 minutes by car. This close proximity means you can enjoy all the vibrant nightlife, eclectic restaurants, and annual events the downtown area has to offer without the hassle of a long commute. Whether you’re a young professional, a family, or someone looking to settle into a welcoming community, Westwood strikes a great balance between tranquility and city life. It’s a wonderful spot to call home while still being connected to the heart of Lawrence.

About 15% of the Westwood population aged 16 and older are married, which is notably lower than average. This could suggest a community with a younger, more transient population—perhaps made up of students, professionals, or renters. It may also reflect a neighborhood that attracts singles or couples without children, contributing to a more independent, urban lifestyle.

With only 6% 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.

Westwood 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 320 residents, Westwood 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.

Westwood has a population density of 4,893, 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 a lower-than-average age of 22, you're likely to find a noticeably youthful energy and vibrant atmosphere. This younger population brings a dynamic mix of activity, innovation, and community involvement, shaping a neighborhood that feels lively, forward-thinking, and full of opportunity — making it an especially appealing choice for younger adults looking for an active and engaging community.

The Westwood crime map uses detailed block group boundaries from address-based crime data to visualize crime patterns across the neighborhood, highlighting both low-crime zones and areas with higher levels of reported crime. This crime heat map helps paint a clearer picture of local safety trends, showing how crime can vary from one part of the community to another. Keep in mind that areas with higher activity on the map don’t always equate to dangerous conditions — locations near entertainment districts, major roads, or tourist destinations often see more reports simply due to the larger number of people passing through.

Housing prices can reveal a lot about the balance and overall appeal of a neighborhood. In Westwood, the median home price is about $327,400, 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 Westwood 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 $1,122, 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 quality plays an important role in shaping the overall appeal of a neighborhood like Westwood. Ratings based on student achievement, graduation rates, and standardized tests — supported by national benchmarks like the NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) — help paint a clearer picture of how local schools perform. Additionally, understanding the education levels of residents in Westwood offers valuable context about the community’s emphasis on learning and opportunity, helping families make confident decisions about where to settle and invest in their children’s future.