Safety isn’t about avoiding risk; it’s about managing it. So, is Kansas City a smart bet or a bad deal when it comes to safety?
We will break it down so you can make a calculated decision, not an emotional one.
Yes, while some areas of Kansas City have higher crime rates, the key locations like Downtown and the Plaza remain secure for visitors who remain vigilant and frequent popular areas.
Successfully navigating any city, much like in business, hinges on understanding the environment and adapting appropriately.
We conducted extensive research via reliable sources to get you the latest 2024 statistics. Whether it was sifting through the Kansas police department and the FBI reports, opinions from legal experts, or information from residents, we give you the safest neighborhoods and practical tips to help you confidently affirm that Kansas is indeed a safe city!
Kansas City crime statistics breakdown:
Here’s the truth about Kansas City crime—it’s high, way above average.
Violent crime? It’s 301% higher than the national rate.
Property crime? A staggering 141% above average. That puts your odds at a 1 in 17 chance of being a victim. But there’s more to the story before you write off the entire city.
Not all neighbourhoods are created equal. While places like Hidden Valley and Blue Hills struggle with higher crime, others like Stanford Gardens and Coleman Highlands are relatively safe.
The takeaway? Choose your area wisely, and you can drastically reduce your exposure.
Homicides in Kansas City 2023:
According to a homicide analysis by Kansas City police, numbers don’t lie—182 homicides in 2023, up from 170 the year before. Here’s the deal: most of these incidents are concentrated in specific areas, with firearms being the main weapon of choice.
East Patrol alone accounts for the majority, while other divisions see significantly lower activity.
The leading causes? Arguments, retaliation, and domestic violence top the list.
But here’s the upside—73% of cases are getting solved, which shows progress. If you’re smart about where you go and stick to safer zones like Downtown or the Plaza, you’ll avoid 99% of the risk. Like anything, success here is about strategy, not luck.
Is Kansas City safe for tourists?
Kansas City has proven itself to be a rising star in the global travel scene, offering a blend of rich culture, iconic barbecue, and a vibrant arts scene that attracts millions.
But does it actually live up to the hype? Absolutely. More than 28 million people flocked to the city in 2023 alone, a nearly 5% jump from the previous year.
And those visitors weren’t just window-shopping; they spent a solid $4 billion during their trips.
With jazz clubs, historic fountains, and family-friendly attractions, Kansas City isn’t just a place on a map—it’s a destination people actively seek out.
So, is it safe for tourists? The city has a lot to offer, and if you’re smart about where you go, you’re bound to have an unforgettable experience.
Is Kansas City safe for residents?
Yes, the stats are scary—1481 violent crimes per 100k people, 4715 property crimes per 100k, and 6086 vehicle thefts last year alone.
But there’s opportunity even in a city ranked safer than just 1% of U.S. cities. Crime is high, but so is police presence—4 officers per 1000 residents, beating national averages.
Kansas City’s reality isn’t pretty, but it’s not hopeless. It’s all about playing the game smart. Know the risks, know the safe zones, and keep moving forward.
How safe is Kansas City?
Kansas City has its charm, but let’s get real—it’s a mixed bag when it comes to safety, walkability, and livability.
Here’s the breakdown:
Walkability:
- The city’s walkability score is 35/100, which means most folks are still driving to get around. But pockets of the city, like Midtown, are more pedestrian-friendly.
- The city is working on its Vision Zero Action Plan to make streets safer by 2030, so things are improving.
Parks and play:
Kansas City parks are solid for families. Kids can run around, and parents don’t have to stress too much. New walking paths and safer crossings are in the works.
Community advocates are pushing for more child-friendly infrastructure, which is continually improving.
Night strolling:
It varies by area. In certain neighborhoods, you can stroll freely without concern. In others, you might want to be more cautious.
Kansas City often arranges walks to bring people together, support meaningful causes, and create lasting memories in a city that prioritizes community and safety.
Kansas City’s welcoming and secure atmosphere makes it the perfect place to host these unique gatherings, from the vibrant lanterns of the Light the Night Walk to the magical glow of GloWild.
They’re more than just strolls—they’re statements. Whether you’re honoring loved ones, fighting for a cause, or simply enjoying the city’s charm, these walks offer something powerful: a chance to walk with purpose in a place where community thrives.
What do the locals say?
Valarie Wilson says:
I live one block east of Troost near UMKC. I wouldn’t call it a bad neighborhood by any stretch, but I’m big on getting to know my neighbors. We have a lot of fun in warmer months with everyone grilling in the yard, kids running around, etc.
I feel like as long as you’re not involved in anything sketchy or hanging out with people that are, this town is pretty safe overall. I will say, however, that it’s one of the most racially divided places I’ve lived and that makes things very tense. Lots of people here have the uninformed and mistaken idea that black neighborhood = bad neighborhood. You can’t even get pizza delivered east of Troost.
Jarett Dunn shares the pros and cons of living in Kansas City:
Kansas City is generally very safe, with only a few areas that can be troublesome, like parts of Troost near downtown and occasionally Swope Park. Most suburbs and surrounding towns are equally safe. Having lived here most of my life, apart from college at KSU, I can say it’s a great place overall.
Is Kansas City a safe bet for businesses?
Kansas City is a city of opportunity, but like any growing hub, it’s not without its challenges.
Break-ins in areas like the River Market, Crossroads Arts District, and West Bottoms are becoming a bigger concern for businesses.
With property crimes, including a 31% rise in car thefts from 2019 to 2023, the risks are tangible.
For small business owners, the costs go beyond just stolen goods—there are repairs, inventory losses, and the emotional strain of dealing with the fallout, especially around high-stakes times like the holiday season.
But here’s the flip side: Kansas City’s businesses are finding ways to adapt and thrive. Investing in smarter solutions like advanced security systems and 24/7 CCTV surveillance.
We tell you at the end of this blog how this proactive approach is offering peace of mind, better protection, and a clearer path forward.
What is the government doing to make Kansas City safe?
Kansas City, Missouri, isn’t just sitting back—it’s taking aggressive action to tackle crime and boost public safety.
1. Kansas City police department (KCPD) crime plan:
Launched in March 2024, this plan is all about precision and results. It’s built on three pillars:
- DICE (Data-Informed Community Engagement): Bridging the gap between law enforcement and communities using data-backed insights to build trust.
- Data-Driven Deployment: Resources go where the problems are, not where they’re guessed to be.
- Focused Deterrence: Zeroing in on the offenders causing the most chaos and delivering a clear message: “Not here. Not anymore.”
2. Violence prevention and intervention fund:
Kansas City is putting its money where its mouth is: $30 million over five years to fuel grassroots programs. These initiatives by chief Graves dig into the roots of violence, offering services that intervene before problems escalate. The mission? Stop violence before it starts.
3. Aim4Peace violence prevention program:
This isn’t just a police thing—it’s a public health thing. Run by the Health Department, Aim4Peace targets the environmental factors feeding violence. They get hands-on with at-risk individuals, providing the tools and resources needed to break the cycle. Results? Fewer shootings. Fewer homicides.
4. Risk-based policing initiative:
Data doesn’t lie. High-risk zones got the focus, and in one year, violent crimes in those areas dropped by 22.6%. The strategy? Less guessing, more results-driven action.
5. Community engagement & support programs:
Local organizations like KC Common Good are stepping up with frameworks like KC United for Public Safety. Borrowing proven models from other cities, they tackle systemic issues head-on, uniting communities to drive real change.
Bottom line: Kansas City isn’t waiting for crime to solve itself. They’re investing in people, deploying smart strategies, and delivering measurable results. Game on.
Kansas City safety map:
Northern Kansas City:
This is where safety shines. Neighborhoods like Thousand Oaks and Staley Farms lead the pack, boasting crime rates far below the city average. If you want peace of mind, this is where you’ll find it.
Eastern Kansas City:
A different story unfolds here. Higher crime rates, especially violent ones, make it a region where caution is key. Stay aware and stay prepared—this area demands vigilance.
Western Kansas City:
The numbers don’t lie. This part of town sees the highest crime rates, with some neighborhoods hitting a 1 in 5 chance of being a victim. It’s a tough reality, but knowing this can help you make informed decisions.
Southern Kansas City:
A safer zone with significantly lower crime compared to the west and east. Some neighborhoods here offer a sense of security, with odds as low as 1 in 47 for encountering crime.
The takeaway? Safety and livability vary neighborhood to neighborhood. Some spots are crushing it with vibrant communities and amenities, while others still have work to do.
Kansas City safest neighborhoods:
According to a report, the best area to stay in Kansas City is St. Louis.
Also Kansas City’s Downtown and Country Club Plaza shine as must-see hubs, blending entertainment, fine dining, and rich jazz heritage. Districts like Westport, 18th and Vine, River Market, and Crossroads Arts District add layers of charm and local flavour.
Whether you’re here for the history, art, nightlife, or BBQ, these cities and their standout neighbourhoods promise unforgettable experiences.
The most dangerous neighborhood in Kansas City :
A recent report identifies three Kansas City neighborhoods with significantly higher crime rates than average—Oak Park Southwest, East Community Team North, and Central Blue Valley—and advises avoiding them:
- Oak Park Southwest – Crime rate 200% above the national average.
- East Community Team North – Crime rate is 209% higher than the city average.
- Central Blue Valley – Topping the list with a crime rate 225% above the national average.
The key to staying safe in Kansas City?
Kansas City businesses are adopting a multi-layered approach to security to ensure greater safety and protection.
Live remote video monitoring plays a key role, offering prompt detection and swift response to security breaches.
State-of-the-art security operations centers provide a range of remote video monitoring and site management solutions, combining expert operators with advanced video analytics for a reliable and tailored security experience.
These highly customizable solutions cater to various industries, including shopping malls, commercial buildings, residential apartments, construction sites, and automotive dealerships.
Whether you’re in Kansas City or nearby areas like Overland Park, Independence, Lee’s Summit, or even across the state line in Kansas, we’ve got you covered!
Conclusion:
Kansas City offers a mix of opportunities and challenges when it comes to safety. While crime rates in some neighborhoods are higher than average, the city’s key attractions—Downtown, the Plaza, and vibrant districts like Westport and Crossroads—remain largely safe and well-traveled. With ongoing investments in community programs, infrastructure, and policing, Kansas City is making strides toward becoming a safer, more livable city.
The bottom line? Yes, Kansas City is a good place to live. Approach it with a plan: stick to safer zones, stay alert, and take advantage of its thriving culture, food scene, and community spirit. Whether you’re visiting or putting down roots, success here is about knowing the landscape and acting strategically.
Want an extra layer of safety? Remote video monitoring offers 24/7 surveillance to help protect businesses.
Contact us today for remote security monitoring services in kansas, catering to all types of industries. Reach out for more details or to schedule a free consultation.
