Top 5 Safest Cities in Kansas: A Comprehensive Guide

chrisbates

Often painted as a land of endless golden wheat fields, Kansas has one of the most captivating landscapes. The Sunflower State is undeniably endowed with numerous attractions, drawing visitors year after year. From the vibrant yellow hues of sunflower fields to the quiet farm villages, Eco-conscious individuals get drawn to the strong presence of agriculture here, promising access to fresh, organic produce. However, while strolling through windswept sorghum farms, one important question arises: Is Kansas a safe place? Although the 2.9 million residents of Kansas will tell you it's a safe place, statistics show a 1 in 241 chance of falling victim to violent crime in the Sunflower State. It's only natural to seek reassurance in safer cities. In no particular order, let's explore the top 5 safest cities in Kansas and why they stand out.

Lenexa

Being a dense suburban city in Johnson County, Lenexa is one of the most affluent neighborhoods in the state, with residents raking in about $101,074 as their median household income. The economic opportunities in the city have led many individuals and families to work with a Lenexa moving company to easily facilitate their move to Lenexa. Coupled with their anticipation of career growth, Lenexa receives a high influx of prospective residents. But the ultimate question remains: Is Lenexa Kansas safe even with the huge economic advantages? Well, the statistics point out that it is! With its 2022 population estimate at 58,617, Lenexa ranks lower than the national median in all four categories of violent crime statistics. A similar pattern also showcases itself with the property crime in Lenexa. You are less likely to fall victim to burglary actions in Lenexa than not finding a wheat stalk in Kansas. But you might want to provide extra security for your vehicles as there are higher chances of theft. Most Lenexa residents will tell you that law enforcement in this city is highly visible. The city's efficient law enforcement agencies also ensure quick response times to potential threats. Their effectiveness further enhances the appeal to residents seeking a secure environment.

	Crime category (per 100,000 residents)	Lenexa	National
	Assault	167	282.7
Violent Crime	Murder	3.4	6.1
	Rape	35.4	40.7
	Robbery	15.2	135.5
	Burglary	167	500.1
Property Crime	Theft	1,138.5	2,042.8
	Motor Vehicle Theft	212.5	284

Prairie Village

One of the absolute safest cities in Kansas is Prairie Village. Nestled within the Kansas City Metropolitan Area, Prairie Village does have a sparse suburban feel. But its neighborhoods are tightly knit, as reflected in its impressive low crime rate. The strong sense of community involvement also creates a sense of security among its 22,947 residents. Prairie Village exudes charm with a focus on family life. It boasts an impressive safety record, with a violent crime rate significantly lower than the national average. Although, like many other places in Kansas, vehicle theft is a concern. There are proactive community policing efforts in Prairie Village. However, over 88% of residents attest to the police's visibility and responsiveness to crime alerts.

	Crime category (per 100,000 residents)	Prairie Village	National
	Assault	109.5	282.7
Violent Crime	Murder	0	6.1
	Rape	21.9	40.7
	Robbery	13.1	135.5
	Burglary	100.7	500.1
Property Crime	Theft	954.7	2,042.8
	Motor Vehicle Theft	275.9	284

Gardner

Despite recording a recent 3.8% increase in population, Gardner City's crime rate has remained astonishingly low. Located in Johnson County, Southwest of Downtown Kansas City, Gardner has continued to attract prospective residents due to its growing economy. Although there are concerns that the rapid population growth may pose challenges to maintaining safety standards, the city has consistently produced data showing it is a safe place. In a poll, over 50% of its 24,206 residents affirmed they have no safety concerns about the city. This opinion, though, is not without merit. Per 100,000 residents, the violent crime statistics for both murder and robbery were zero, respectively. While Gardner City might have less of a city vibe, it's a safe place to pitch your tent when living in Kansas.

	Crime category (per 100,000 residents)	Gardner	National
	Assault	138.8	282.7
Violent Crime	Murder	0	6.1
	Rape	16.3	40.7
	Robbery	0	135.5
	Burglary	28.6	500.1
Property Crime	Theft	685.8	2,042.8
	Motor Vehicle Theft	61.2	284

Andover

Located in Butler County, Andover is another safe city in the Sunflower State. This suburb of Wichita ranks among the best places to live in Butler County. It is particularly great for people looking to own a home, as 80% of its 15,628 residents are homeowners. Prospective residents often wonder; Is Kansas a safe place to live? or How safe is Andover for a family? Well, Andover has a family-friendly atmosphere, and despite its proximity to a major urban center, its crime rate is below the national average. A good 70% of the city's residents agree the police's visibility and near-prompt responsiveness contribute to its positive safety record. Although Andover rates are less than the national average in many crime categories, for murder, they are slightly above the national average. This, however, does not significantly impact the city's overall safety, as it has mounted numerous crime prevention initiatives.

	Crime category (per 100,000 residents)	Andover	National
	Assault	94.7	282.7
Violent Crime	Murder	6.3	6.1
	Rape	31.6	40.7
	Robbery	0	135.5
	Burglary	126.2	500.1
Property Crime	Theft	1,098.3	2,042.8
	Motor Vehicle Theft	63.1	284

Leawood

As one of the wealthiest cities in Kansas, Leawood stands out for its exceptional safety record. Known for its upscale amenities and teeming with a local population exceeding 33,000, Leawood has high standards of living and many top-rated schools and neighborhoods. As 90% of Leawood residents are homeowners, this city not only boasts a prosperous environment but also a secure one. In Leawood, Kansas, the crime rate is consistently below the national average across many categories. The city's commitment to safety is evident through the low crime rate and the testimony of Leawood's residents. Judging by a poll, a solid 92% of its residents expressed their confidence in the area's safety and the effectiveness of law enforcement.

	Crime category (per 100,000 residents)	Leawood	National
	Assault	107.2	282.7
Violent Crime	Murder	0	6.1
	Rape	3	40.7
	Robbery	17.9	135.5
	Burglary	92.3	500.1
Property Crime	Theft	1,577.6	2,042.8
	Motor Vehicle Theft	282.8	284

Conclusion

When it comes to safety and security, these five cities in the Sunflower State stand out as exemplary destinations for prospective residents. Whether you're drawn to the suburban charm of Lenexa and Prairie Village, a family-friendly community like Andover, or the peaceful and prosperous cities of Gardner and Leawood, each city is one of the safest in Kansas. All five cities have effective policing and crime prevention programs, which contribute to their low crime rates. So, if you are yet to decide on a city to move into while residing in Kansas, you might want to consider any of these.