Living in Waldo
Welcome to the bustling heart of Kansas City - a city known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and thriving urban centers. If you're planning to move to Kansas City and are looking for affordable options near both downtown KC and Overland Park, look no further than Waldo.
Waldo is a neighborhood that perfectly balances affordability with proximity to the best of both worlds. Whether you're looking for a starter home, an apartment, or a family-friendly house, Waldo has something for everyone. And with easy access to both downtown KC and Overland Park, you can enjoy the best of both worlds without sacrificing your lifestyle or your budget.
In this guide, we'll give you everything you need to know about moving to Waldo. We'll explore the neighborhood's rich history, diverse community, and vibrant culture, as well as the many amenities, restaurants, and entertainment options available in the area. So if you're looking for an affordable and convenient option in Kansas City, read on to learn why Waldo might just be the perfect fit for you.
Don’t miss out on Justin’s latest YouTube video about the most trendy neighborhoods in Kansas City: Brookside. As a local real estate expert, Justin shares everything you need to know about this charming and historic neighborhood, making it a must-watch for anyone planning to move to Brookside.
Urban Meet Suburban: Waldo in South KC
A Great Community
Waldo is a historic neighborhood located in the heart of Kansas City that has experienced a significant revitalization in recent years. Developed in the early 20th century, the neighborhood was named after Waldo Potter, a prominent businessman who owned a large tract of land in the area.
Today, Waldo is in the midst of a vibrant and exciting renaissance, with a strong sense of community and a rich cultural heritage. The neighborhood's tree-lined streets, historic architecture, and friendly atmosphere are just a few of the features that make it stand out among other urban neighborhoods in Kansas City.
Waldo's revitalization has been driven in part by a renewed interest in urban living, with many people drawn to the convenience and vibrancy of the area. Additionally, Waldo's location in the southern part of the city, with easy access to both downtown Kansas City and Overland Park, makes it an attractive option for those who work in these areas.
The neighborhood's cultural events and festivals are another major draw, showcasing local artists, musicians, and businesses. The Waldo Fall Festival, which takes place every September, is a particularly popular event, featuring live music, food trucks, and local vendors.
Waldo's community is tight-knit and welcoming, with many residents taking pride in their neighborhood and actively working to improve and enhance it. This has led to a strong sense of community spirit, with neighbors coming together to organize events, share resources, and support one another.
Overall, Waldo is a neighborhood that offers a unique and vibrant urban living experience, with a rich history and a bright future. Its mix of affordability, convenience, and community make it an excellent choice for those looking to buy a home in Kansas City.
Discover the Convenience of Waldo
Waldo's location in the heart of Kansas City provides numerous benefits for residents. Its proximity to major highways and transportation hubs make it a convenient choice for commuters traveling to a range of destinations throughout the area.
For those commuting to Overland Park, Corporate Woods, or Lee's Summit, Waldo's location along US-71 provides easy access to these areas, with average commute times of 15-20 minutes. For those commuting to downtown Kansas City, the average commute time is 10-15 minutes, making Waldo an excellent option for those who work in the city.
KCI Airport is also within easy reach, with an average commute time of around 25-30 minutes.
In addition to its convenient location, Waldo offers a range of nearby amenities that are easily accessible to residents. The neighborhood is home to a variety of local businesses, restaurants, and shops, including the popular Waldo Pizza, Waldo Thai, and Bier Station. It also offers easy access to nearby parks, including Tower Park and Loose Park, as well as the Trolley Track Trail for cyclists and walkers.
For those looking to do some shopping, the Country Club Plaza is just a short drive away, with its many high-end stores and boutiques. The Kansas City Zoo, the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, and the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts are also nearby, providing plenty of options for entertainment and cultural enrichment.
Overall, Waldo's convenient location and proximity to a range of amenities make it an excellent choice for those looking to buy a home in Kansas City. Its easy access to major transportation routes and nearby destinations, combined with its affordable housing options and friendly community, make it a neighborhood that is well worth considering.
How are Schools in Waldo?
The quality of schools in Waldo is comparable to other areas in the Kansas City urban metro, and there are several factors to consider when making decisions about education for your family.
Waldo is served by the Kansas City Public School District, which has regained full accreditation and has been working to improve its schools and academic programs. The district operates several elementary, middle, and high schools in the Waldo area, and families also have the option to apply to magnet schools and charter schools in the district.
Additionally, there are several private school options in the Waldo area, including the Notre Dame de Sion School and the Barstow School, which offer rigorous academic programs and a range of extracurricular activities.
When considering schools in the Waldo area versus other areas in the Kansas City metro, it is important to research individual schools and programs to ensure they meet your family's needs and expectations. Factors to consider may include class sizes, curriculum, test scores, teacher qualifications, and extracurricular opportunities.
Overall, while the educational landscape in Waldo and the greater Kansas City area can vary depending on specific schools and programs, families in Waldo have access to a range of public and private school options to choose from, providing opportunities for a high-quality education.
Waldo Eats: A Foodie's Paradise
Waldo has a variety of dining options to suit every taste and budget. Here are some noteworthy restaurants in the area, as well as nearby dining options that residents may frequent:
Noteworthy Restaurants in Waldo:
- Waldo Thai (7433 Broadway St): A cozy and welcoming spot serving up traditional Thai dishes, including a range of curries, noodles, and stir-fries.
- Summit Grill (520 W 75th St): A contemporary American grill and bar that offers a range of comfort food classics, including burgers, sandwiches, and salads, as well as an extensive cocktail list.
- McLain's Bakery (201 E Gregory Blvd): A popular bakery and cafe that serves up a range of freshly baked bread, pastries, sandwiches, and salads, as well as coffee and other beverages.
- Waldo Pizza (7433 Broadway St): A casual pizza joint that serves up a range of creative and delicious pizzas, as well as salads, sandwiches, and appetizers.
Nearby Dining Options:
- Q39 (1000 W 39th St): A highly regarded barbecue restaurant that offers a range of slow-smoked meats, sides, and craft beers. (Located in nearby Westport)
- Char Bar (4050 Pennsylvania Ave): A rustic barbecue joint and beer garden that serves up a range of smoked meats, sides, and cocktails. (Located in nearby Westport)
- Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que (3002 W 47th Ave): A legendary barbecue joint that has been featured on national TV shows and serves up a range of mouth-watering meats, sides, and sauces. (Located in nearby Rosedale)
- Blue Koi Noodles & Dumplings (1803 W 39th St): A cozy and casual Asian restaurant that serves up a range of noodle dishes, dumplings, and other traditional Chinese dishes. (Located in nearby Westport)
These are just a few of the dining options available in and around Waldo. Whether you're in the mood for Thai food, barbecue, pizza, or something else entirely, you're sure to find something to suit your tastes.
What to do in Waldo?
Waldo is a vibrant and dynamic neighborhood that offers a range of activities and attractions for residents and visitors of all ages. Here are some of the top things to do in Waldo:
Nightlife:
- Bier Station (120 E Gregory Blvd): A popular beer bar and restaurant that features an extensive selection of craft beers and ciders, as well as a rotating food menu.
- The Well Bar Grill & Rooftop (7421 Broadway St): A lively sports bar and grill that features a rooftop patio and a range of craft beers and cocktails.
Parks and Trails:
- Tower Park (75th and Holmes): A beautiful neighborhood park that features a playground, a splash pad, a walking trail, and a variety of sports fields and courts.
- Trolley Track Trail: A popular trail that stretches for six miles from Waldo to Brookside, offering beautiful views of the surrounding neighborhoods.
Outdoors:
- Loose Park (5200 Wornall Rd): A beautiful and expansive park that features a rose garden, a lake, a walking trail, and a variety of sports fields and courts.
- Minor Park Golf Course (11215 Holmes Rd): A challenging and well-maintained golf course that offers a range of amenities, including a driving range, a pro shop, and a restaurant.
Shopping:
- Brookside (63rd and Brookside Blvd): A charming and walkable shopping district that features a variety of local boutiques, restaurants, and cafes.
- Country Club Plaza (47th and Main St): A world-renowned shopping and dining district that features a variety of high-end retailers and restaurants, as well as beautiful Spanish-style architecture and fountains.
Activities for Kids:
- Waldo Library (201 E 75th St): A cozy and welcoming public library that offers a variety of children’s programs and activities, as well as a large collection of books and media.
- Kaleidoscope (2500 Grand Blvd): A unique and interactive art studio for kids that offers free daily workshops and activities, as well as a gift shop and a cafe.
Walkability:
- Waldo is a highly walkable neighborhood, with a variety of shops, restaurants, and other amenities located within a short distance of many homes and apartments. This makes it easy and convenient to get around on foot, whether you’re running errands, going out to eat, or just enjoying a leisurely stroll.
Overall, Waldo offers a diverse range of activities and attractions for residents and visitors, making it an attractive and lively place to call home.
Cost of Living in Waldo
The cost of living in Waldo is generally considered to be lower than other parts of Kansas City, as well as the national average. The median home price in Waldo is currently around $263,000, with many homes available in the $175,000 to $200,000 range.
Compared to other parts of Kansas City, Waldo offers relatively affordable housing options, as well as a range of amenities and services that make it an attractive place to live. For example, the nearby Country Club Plaza and Brookside shopping districts offer a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options, while the Trolley Track Trail and Tower Park provide opportunities for outdoor recreation and relaxation.
Overall, the cost of living in Waldo is generally considered to be on par with other parts of the Kansas City metro area, and lower than many other urban centers around the country. This makes it an attractive option for people looking for an affordable and vibrant place to live, with a strong sense of community and a range of amenities and services at their fingertips.
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Pros and Cons of Moving to Waldo
Pros:
- Affordable housing options: Waldo offers a range of housing options that are generally considered to be more affordable than other parts of the Kansas City metro area.
- Walkability: With its variety of shops, restaurants, and amenities located within a short distance of many homes and apartments, Waldo is a highly walkable neighborhood.
- Community feel: Waldo has a strong sense of community, with regular events and activities that bring residents together and foster a sense of belonging.
- Access to amenities: Waldo is located close to several shopping and entertainment districts, including the Country Club Plaza and Brookside, as well as several parks and trails.
- Convenient location: With its proximity to major highways and transportation routes, Waldo offers easy access to downtown Kansas City and other parts of the metro area.
Cons:
- Limited public transportation: While Waldo is located near several major highways and bus routes, the area does not have a light rail system or extensive public transportation options.
- Limited nightlife options: While there are several bars and restaurants in Waldo, the neighborhood may not offer as many options for nightlife and entertainment as other parts of the city.
- Traffic congestion: With its proximity to major highways and transportation routes, traffic can be heavy at times in and around Waldo.
- Quality of schools: While the quality of schools in the Waldo area has improved in recent years, some families may choose to send their children to private or magnet schools in other parts of the city.
- Limited job opportunities: While Waldo offers easy access to several major employment centers, including downtown Kansas City and Overland Park, there may be limited job opportunities in certain fields within the immediate area.
Ready to Start Your Journey?
Waldo is a fantastic choice for anyone looking for affordable urban living in the heart of Kansas City. With its community feel, walkability, access to amenities, and convenient location, it offers a vibrant and dynamic lifestyle that is hard to beat. Whether you're a young professional, a family with children, or anyone in between, Waldo has something to offer. And with the help of the Plains Paris Real Estate team, you can find the perfect home to suit your needs and make the most of everything this great neighborhood has to offer.
If you're looking to buy or sell a home in Waldo or anywhere else in the Kansas City metro area, look no further than Plains Paris Real Estate. Our experienced and dedicated team of professionals is committed to providing the best possible real estate experience, from start to finish. With our personalized and comprehensive services, off-market listings, and satisfaction guarantee, you can feel confident that you're getting the best possible representation and guidance throughout the buying or selling process. So why wait? Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you achieve your real estate goals.
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The Real Scoop on Waldo Real Estate
- Waldo is a highly sought-after area of Kansas City that offers a mix of affordability, convenience, and community. The real estate market in Waldo is competitive, with strong demand from buyers and a range of affordable housing options available.
- The median home price in Waldo is currently around $263,000, with many homes available in the $175,000 to $200,000 range. Homes in the area can sell quickly, often within days or even hours of being listed, due to the strong demand from buyers.
- The most popular areas of Waldo to buy in include:
- Armour Hills: Located in the eastern part of Waldo, Armour Hills is a charming and historic neighborhood that offers a mix of Tudor, Colonial, and Craftsman-style homes. The area is known for its beautiful tree-lined streets, well-maintained homes, and strong sense of community.
- Waldo Heights: Waldo Heights is a newer development located just south of Wornall Road, offering a mix of single-family homes and townhomes. The area is known for its affordable prices, convenient location, and range of housing options.
- Tower Homes: Located just west of Tower Park, the Tower Homes neighborhood offers a mix of historic and newer homes, with a range of architectural styles and prices. The area is known for its proximity to Tower Park, as well as its easy access to nearby shopping and entertainment districts.
- Romanelli Gardens: Located just south of the Brookside area, Romanelli Gardens is a highly desirable neighborhood that features beautiful tree-lined streets, well-maintained homes, and a strong sense of community. The area is known for its architectural diversity, with a mix of Tudor, Colonial, and Mediterranean-style homes.
- Overall, the real estate market in Waldo is competitive and dynamic, with strong demand from buyers and a range of affordable housing options available. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or a seasoned real estate investor, there’s sure to be a neighborhood in Waldo that suits your needs and preferences.
