Lexington offers historic charm and hometown living near Kansas City
Located along the curves of the Missouri River, Lexington was once the largest city west of St. Louis. A rich history can still be seen in 19th-century homes, local museums and a Civil War cannonball that remains lodged in the Lafayette County Courthouse, shot during the Battle of Lexington. The city's early growth tapered off after the war ended, and today, Lexington sits quietly against a backdrop of farmland. It's the kind of place where locals can shop from farm stands and high schoolers raise animals for the county fair.
"It has a small-town feel yet is conveniently located to the urban areas of Kansas City and surrounding cities like Blue Springs and Independence ," says Christine Backs, an associate Realtor with Re/Max Heritage and a Lexington native. According to her, homebuyers are drawn to the area because of significantly lower property taxes and a more country atmosphere. "It's the feeling of being at home — knowing people and being familiar and welcomed," she says. "Even people who aren't from here say it's still just like home."
The city has unique older homes, with less new construction
Some of Lexington's oldest homes showcase Greek Revival and Victorian architecture from the 1800s, including ornate front porches and symmetrical columns. Ranch-style homes and bungalows from the 1900s to the 1980s are also common. "The shortage we have is new construction," says Backs, adding that this leads to a high demand. "Any home that was built in the 80s or newer, if they're priced right and in good condition, they're sold in two weeks."
Some investment properties go for under $100,000, but smaller move-in-ready ranch homes and bungalows typically sell from $100,000 to $200,000. Between $200,000 and $400,000, buyers can find larger historic homes, modern construction or properties with fresh renovations. According to Backs, the Lexington area is eligible for USDA loans, a significant draw for some buyers.
Schools include pathways like agriculture and welding
Kids can attend Leslie Bell Elementary School, rated C by Niche. Lexington Middle gets a C-minus, and Lexington High receives a C-plus. All three schools are located in the city, and the district's student population is around 1,000. High school students can take career-focused courses at the local Lex La-Ray Technical Center, including automotive technology, welding and agriculture. The district's Future Farmers of America club plays a large role in the center's agriculture pathway.
Parks offer fishing, swimming and Civil War history tours
The city's Community Park has ball fields and a fishing lake, with pickleball courts that were added in 2024. Right next door, Lexington Water Park's water slides put it a step above a traditional public pool. To access the Missouri River, locals can head to Lexington Riverfront Park, which has a large parking area and a boat launch.
The Battle of Lexington State Historic Site is the city's largest green space and is open to the public with tours. Once the spot of a significant Civil War battle, visitors can still see the bullet holes on the outside of this 1800s homestead.
Shops and restaurants highlight homegrown ingredients
With a monthly farmers market and several nearby farm stands, it's easy to source local produce in Lexington. Meierer Produce Market & Orchard is a favorite for seasonal fruits and vegetables, fresh eggs and house-made jam — all from their farm. Over at Ten Twelve Main, the coffee is made from regional beans, and the burgers are made with meat sourced from the owner's family farm. Shops in town sell curated antiques, handmade perfumes and quilting supplies. Visitors to River Reader Bookstore can browse books while waiting for their coffee from the in-house cafe. Brother's Market is the city's only grocery store, but there is a Walmart 10 miles north in Richmond .
Events range from battle reenactments to blockbuster movies
Lexington's historical roots are evident throughout the city, in informational plaques, statues and local museums. One of the area's biggest events is the Spirit of the Civil War — a reenactment of the Battle of Lexington. According to Backs, who is on the Lexington Economic Development Council, the city is planning to start paranormal tours in 2025, delving into the spooky happenings of this storied area. Located in an early-1900s building, The LEX Auditorium and Civic Center still hosts concerts, and the VIP Cannonball 6 movie theater shows the newest blockbuster.
The commute into Kansas City is scenic, but it can take longer
Lexington is about 50 miles east of Kansas City and just over 30 miles east of Independence. "The commute is gorgeous," Backs says. "The highways are lined with agricultural fields." Commuting workers can take U.S. Route 24 or head south to connect with Interstate 34. Either way, the trip takes a little longer than elsewhere in the county, since the interstate is farther away. "We are not on I-70, which is also a positive, because we don't have the traffic," Backs says.
Written By
Catherine Lashley
