If you’re thinking of moving to Johnson County, Kansas because you’ve heard it’s a great place to raise your family, don’t consider purchasing a home without knowing these three things you may hate about it. I’m a transplant that has lived in Johnson County for 15 years. I’ve raised three kids here and I know all the goods and the pains.
Number 1 – The Taxes
The national average sales tax rate is 5.7% and Kansas comes in at 6 1/2%. Although our local average comes in just under the national local averages, some areas in Johnson County go way over with 11 1/2% in some parts of Olathe and Mission, Kansas. The property tax rate isn’t much better. Johnson County comes in almost a 1/2% over the 1% national average. Our cost of living and pricing may not be as high as some coastal areas but we are higher compared to some of our neighboring Midwest cities, such as Omaha and St. Louis. Also, our property values are on the rise, year over year causing the taxes to rise quickly. We have several disgruntled residents when it comes to taxes.
Number 2 – Lack of Public Transportation
Johnson County has long been known for it’s car-centric culture and lack of public transportation options. Many neighborhoods are not located in an area that’s easy to navigate as a pedestrian. This makes it very difficult to get around without a vehicle. Residents are forced to spend additional money on personal vehicles and taxed annually. Additionally, the lack of public transportation can contribute to increased traffic and air pollution.
Number 3 – The Unpredictable & Severe Weather
And finally, and this could be a deal breaker, Kansas is known for it’s unpredictable weather. With frequent and sudden changes in temperature, wind and precipitation. We do have four seasons but the cold and bitter Winters and the hot and humid Summers last the longest. Thunderstorms, hail and even the occasional tornado accompany the Spring and Summer months. Johnson County is located in the middle of the US where warm, moist air from the Gulf meets cooler, dry air from the Rockies, creating a favorable environment for thunderstorms and tornadoes. Also, the flatter terrain and lack of natural barriers allow storms to move across the region with little disruption. I’ve seen thunder snow, 70 degrees on Christmas Day, snow on May 2nd, and tornado damage a mere 15 miles from home. It’s not uncommon to see 70 degrees or more difference in temperature from one day to the next.
So, now that you know the three things you may not like about living in Johnson County, Kansas, you may be wondering if there are any redeeming qualities and yes, there are lots of reasons it’s growing so fast and in such high demand. Most people that live here love living in Johnson County. So tune into my next video, 7 Reasons Johnson County is the Ideal Place to Raise a Family.
If you have any questions about Coco or any other Kansas City real estate market, feel free to drop me a comment, send me an email, or give me a call. I’m happy to chat.
Heather Brulez
Reece Nichols
913-948-3918
913-323-7222
