Hillcrest, Kansas City,MO

Hillcrest, nestled in the southeast part of Kansas City, MO, is a charming neighborhood that offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere perfect for families, young professionals, and retirees alike. One of the standout features of Hillcrest is its beautiful, tree-lined streets and diverse housing options ranging from cozy bungalows to spacious family homes. Residents enjoy a strong sense of community, with friendly neighbors and local events that bring everyone together. For those moving or relocating here, Hillcrest provides a peaceful suburban feel while still being connected to the vibrant energy of Kansas City.

When it comes to attractions, Hillcrest doesn’t disappoint. The neighborhood is home to the Hillcrest Community Center, which offers a variety of recreational programs, fitness classes, and social gatherings that help foster community spirit. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the nearby Hillcrest Park, which provides ample green space for picnics, jogging, and weekend relaxation. Additionally, the area hosts quaint local shops and eateries that give residents a chance to enjoy delicious meals and unique finds without having to travel far.

One of the great perks of living in Hillcrest is its convenient proximity to Downtown Kansas City. It’s just a short 15 to 20-minute drive away, making it easy for residents to commute to work, enjoy the bustling nightlife, or explore cultural attractions like the Power & Light District and the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts. This blend of suburban calm and urban convenience makes Hillcrest an attractive choice for anyone looking to settle in a community that has the best of both worlds.

About 16% of the Hillcrest 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 21% 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.

Hillcrest 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 435 residents, Hillcrest is notably smaller than many other Kansas City 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.

With a lower than average population density of 315 people per square mile, Hillcrest offers a more open and spacious environment compared to many other Kansas City neighborhoods. This often means quieter streets, less congestion, and a relaxed atmosphere — all while still providing access to the amenities and conveniences of city living.

With an average age of 32, 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 Hillcrest crime map offers a clear, data-driven look at how crime is distributed throughout the neighborhood, using block group data to highlight both safer areas and potential hot spots. The color-coded map makes it easy to see where crime is more concentrated and where it occurs less frequently, helping residents and prospective buyers better understand local safety patterns. It’s important to note that darker or red zones on the map don’t necessarily mean those areas are unsafe — locations near busy transit hubs, shopping districts, or popular attractions often show higher activity simply due to larger crowds and increased foot traffic.

Housing trends offer valuable insight into the accessibility and character of a neighborhood. In Hillcrest, the median home price is $134,300, which is less than many surrounding areas. This affordability makes it an attractive option for first-time buyers, young families, or anyone looking to enter the housing market without a significant financial barrier. Looking at appreciation rates and past market trends in Hillcrest can offer valuable insight into the neighborhood’s investment potential. Understanding how home values have changed over time helps buyers gauge future growth, assess long-term stability, and make more informed real estate decisions.

The median rent is around $847, 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 Hillcrest 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 Hillcrest 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.