A family moving to Kansas City due to the husband's new job first inquired about schools. With three children, they planned to settle down for a long time, so they wanted to clearly define the school district before looking for a home.

First, it's important to note that the private schools known among Korean parents are located in the Johnson County areas of Lenexa and Mission, which are not far from downtown Kansas City.

Saint James Academy is a Catholic high school located in Lenexa. It is a relatively young school that graduated its first class in 2005, with tuition around $14,900 per year. The acceptance rate is 99 percent, making it relatively accessible. While this is advantageous, the tuition itself is on the higher side compared to other private high schools in the area, which could be a burden.

Bishop Miege High School in Mission is a Catholic college preparatory high school established in 1958. Its tuition is $10,400 per year, lower than Saint James, and the school claims it has relatively reasonable tuition compared to other private schools in the area. However, both schools have limited detailed statistics on college admission rates available on their websites, so it's best to inquire directly during consultations for accurate information.

Looking at home prices, in Overland Park, which is close to these two schools, the average home value according to Zillow data from June 30, 2026, is $493,605, which is a 5.5 percent increase from a year ago. The median sale price according to Redfin for the second quarter of 2026 is also similar at $495,000. Overall, home prices in Johnson County are higher than in downtown Kansas City.

The high prices indicate a steady demand for school districts. While this is favorable for expecting stable long-term prices, the increased initial budget for purchasing can be a burden. If you are moving from another state, please also check that Kansas's property tax rates may differ from your previous residence.

School district boundaries change frequently, so it's safe to verify the assigned school for the specific address before signing a contract.

Johnson County has consistently been regarded as a region with a good reputation for school districts within the Kansas City metropolitan area. This is advantageous for families planning long-term residency, but the home prices already reflect a school district premium, which can make entry costs high. Many families choose to rent first to experience the schools and neighborhoods before deciding to buy.

Compared to Kansas City in Missouri, Johnson County in Kansas has different state income tax rates and property tax assessment methods. Since it is a metropolitan area spanning two states, it is more accurate to compare tax structures rather than just commuting distances when deciding where to settle.

Rental prices have increased, with the average rent in Overland Park rising by 10.03 percent compared to the previous year according to Zumper data from August 2026. RentHop reports that a one-bedroom apartment averages $1,095, while a four-bedroom averages $2,371. The rate of rent increase is steeper than the increase in sale prices, suggesting that purchasing may be relatively favorable for families planning long-term residency in the area.

The Kansas City metropolitan area has several independent school districts closely divided, so it is common for assigned districts to vary even within the same zip code. To avoid mistakes, it is better to spread out the school district map first and then look for properties that fit your budget within that area rather than signing a contract and checking the district afterward.

Both schools have reportedly seen a steady increase in applicants in recent years, so if you are considering enrollment, it is advisable to check the application deadlines in advance. While this allows for ample preparation, it is also important to keep in mind that as popularity increases, the acceptance rates may decrease in the future.

This article is not investment or legal advice, and it is recommended to consult with professionals before making any actual contracts.