Fairway

For its location within Johnson County, which is known for being well-situated within the Kansas City metropolitan area, Fairway is blooming with new residents and developments. “People move here because they would rather spend their time with their friends and family than on the highway,” says Realtor Cathy Maxwell of ReeceNichols Real Estate. “It’s close to downtown, and you can walk to The Shops at Prairie Village and restaurants.” Maxwell grew up nearby and describes Fairway’s identity as both “quirky and upscale.” With its mix of mom-and-pop shops and access to several high-end country clubs, it makes sense. When asked what she loves about the area, she says it's "the convenience, ease of shopping and meeting with friends for a quick drink."

You can purchase a three-bedroom home with updates in Fairway for under $500,000, a four-bedroom property in a coveted area for around $700,000 and a four-bedroom new construction for over $900,000. The larger the lot size and more distinctive the architecture, a residence here may even travel up to $3 million. Houses in Fairway reflect traditional ranch-style homes, many of which were built in the '50s on solid foundations. Modern new developments in the midcentury and industrial style are also becoming popular in the area. Most properties settle on modest lawn sizes, tucked away comfortably from the road and next door neighbors. The streets in Fairway are known for their mature trees that shade residences and offer privacy. In fact, Fairway is sometimes called “The City of Trees.” Lawns are neatly manicured and people are often out walking with their family, friends and dogs on the sidewalks.

The Shops at Prairie Village, which Maxwell mentions is within walking distance of homes, is a retail hub for Kansas City businesses. Two beloved spots are The Little House, which has been selling children’s clothing for 50 years, and Hen House, a grocery store with a neighborly vibe. Aside from fresh food and packaged goods, Hen House also serves ready-made comfort food dinners for nights you don’t feel like cooking. Maxwell also recommends dining at French Market while you're there, "It's kind of an upscale grab-and-go place where you can also get a drink." In addition to The Shops at Prairie Village, Fairway is also within walking distance of Johnson Drive. Head there when you want to grab a bite at Snack Shack, known for its diner-style décor. Along the drive you’ll also find a Pilates studio, hair salon and a dance academy for kids.

Fairway’s students study within the Shawnee Mission School District. They’ll start at Prairie Elementary School before taking their next steps at Indian Hills Middle School and Shawnee Mission South High School. All of these facilities earn an A rating from Niche. The school district also works hard to pair students with internships that prepare them for fast-growing fields in digital media, law, engineering and more. After school kids can head to the the centrally located Johnson County Library on Cedar Street for a quiet place to study.

Much of the green space in Fairway is reserved for golf courses. Among them is Kansas City Country Club which — founded in 1896, it's the oldest one west of the Mississippi. Despite this, there are several parks to choose from nearby, including the 44-acre Antioch Park with its two fishing lakes, rose garden, miles of hiking trails, sports fields and playgrounds. The lakes are lined with benches and one contains a central fountain, offering a lovely ambiance for reading and catching up with friends.

Since much of Fairway is walkable, you won’t have to drive too often, unless you’re commuting to work or simply love to take the occasional adventure. The skyscrapers, restaurants, cultural centers and nightlife of downtown Kansas City is only 6 miles south on Interstate 30. Catch a symphony there at the Kauffman Center and explore waterfront shopping at River Market. Locally, Fairway hosts egg hunts every easter and many park events, including regular move-in-the-park nights. For faraway trips, Kansas City International Airport is also 26 miles south via Interstates 29 and 635.

For a suburban life with retail almost everywhere you look, Fairway might be home.

Written By

Kathryn Ashworth

Photography Contributed By

Brooke Wasson

Video By

Tyler Belile