Living a College Town Lifestyle in Lawrence, Kansas

Proud home of the University of Kansas, Lawrence is a flourishing college community. The population was about 90,000 in 2008 and grew 13% from 2000. Lawrence is located near the northeast corner of the state.

Those who want to live in a vibrant college town will find Lawrence, Kansas a stimulating community. The university’s 30,000 students give Lawrence a liberal bent and is the source for many cultural offerings. Lawrence has a radical library, microbreweries, a half dozen locally-owned coffeehouses, and an anti-discrimination law protecting gays. The city has a thriving music and arts scene; Rolling Stone named Lawrence one of the "best lil' college towns" in the country in 2005. Douglas County, where Lawrence is located, was one of 2 counties to vote for John Kerry in the 2004 election.

Downtown Lawrence, in particular Massachusetts Street, has a lively atmosphere and is filled with restaurants, bars, galleries, shops, and music venues. The University of Kansas Jayhawks provide much local sports excitement.

Where to Retire in Lawrence and Home Prices

According to Zillow, the Home Value Index was $285,166 in early 2022.

What Is Special about Lawrence

Lawrence has the University of Kansas - a very pretty campus and major influence on the town. There is also the Haskell Indian Nations University, the North vs. South Music Festival, and La Prima Tazza, one of Lawrence's many unique coffee shops. There are also many independent book stores, the American Indian Athletic Hall of Fame, Clinton State Park, and The Robert J. Dole Institute of Politics. Lawrence has an active program to welcome retirees to the area.

What Is Not Special about Lawrence

You have to like living in the heartland.

Climate and Physical Environment

The city of Lawrence is located near the northeaster corner of the state of Kansas. The Kansas River is nearby.

Restaurants & Cultural Scene

There is a lively musical and literary tradition here. The downtown area is filled with bars, coffee shops, nightclubs, and galleries where music can be heard and art appreciated. The University of Kansas campus is home to museums, including the KU Natural History Museum, and the Spencer Museum of Art. The Lied Center of Kansas is the multimillion performing arts center of KU. Lawrence Arts Center is a vital part of the cultural scene. The North vs. South Music Festival is held each August to coincide with the anniversary of Quantrill's Raid (Civil War battle).

Crime

Crime is above average in Lawrence - some of it college town related and some having to do with neighborhood.

Medical Facilities

Lawrence Memorial Hospital

Transportation

Kansas City (Mo) International Airport is about 45 miles. Lawrence Muni has multiple lighted runways for charters and private aircraft. PeopleForBikes gave Lawrence high marks for effort in the safety and growth categories of bicycling.

Valuable Links

City of Lawrence

Rate This Town