Higher Education

Overland Park is home to the state’s largest institution of higher education: Johnson County Community College, where more than 18,000 students are enrolled in credit and continuing education each semester. The University of Kansas, Kansas State University, and numerous other colleges and universities have satellite campuses in Overland Park where working professionals can acquire an additional academic degree, keep up with current business trends or embark on a new career path. Many of the institutions offer evening and weekend classes affording Overland Park residents the opportunity for life-long learning. You don’t even have to enroll as a full-time student to take advantage of the knowledgeable faculty, extensive libraries and research tools at Overland Park’s higher learning institutions.

The Johnson County Education Research Triangle (JCERT) was created in 2008 by a 1/8-cent, voter-approved sales tax increase that supports focus on research, science and technology for the county. Funding from this tax goes to support buildings, programs and research at the KU Edwards Campus Business, Engineering, Science and Technology (BEST) Building in Overland Park, Kansas State University International Animal Health and Food Safety Institute in Olathe and the KU Clinical Research Center in Fairway. The initiative is projected to generate over $1.4 billion in economic impact over the next two decades.

Johnson County Community College* (JCCC) is one of the country’s largest, single-site community colleges in Kansas, with a total enrollment of approximately 18,743 students as of 2024.

JCCC is nationally recognized for its academic programming and workforce development initiatives. The college offers 86 degrees/certificates in 45 programs of study, recertification, re-licensure workshops, other continuing education courses. JCCC works directly with local companies, community members and economic development organizations to tailor training courses based on specific needs. The college is also recognized for its academic programs, workforce partnerships, and cultural offerings, including the Nerman Museum of Contemporary Art and a strong Performing Arts Series.

JCCC Education Centers:

• Workforce Development & Continuing Education
• Hospitality Management & Culinary
• National Academy of Railroad Sciences Program

Kansas State University Olathe Campus* offers graduates degrees, certificates, and undergraduate completion programs focused on animal health, biosciences, food systems, business, and leadership. Since opening in 2011, it has become a regional hub for education, applied research, and industry collaboration, supporting workforce development and innovation in the Greater Kansas City area. The campus features modern facilities and a Food Innovation Accelerator to help entrepreneurs grow food-related businesses.

University of Kansas Edwards Campus* offers flexible undergraduate and graduate degree completion programs designed for adult learners and working professionals. With more than 60 degrees and certificates across fields like business, cybersecurity, social work, and health sciences, the campus provides high-quality education tailored to meet workforce needs in the Kansas City metro area. Conveniently located with modern facilities and strong industry connections, KU Edwards supports students in advancing their careers through accessible on-campus and online learning options.

Other colleges and universities in Overland Park and nearby:

• Baker University - School of Professional & Graduate Studies*
• Cleveland University - Kansas City*
• Friends University - Kansas City Education Center
• Kansas State University Olathe*
• National American University
• Ottawa University Kansas City*
• Pittsburg State University Kansas City
• Rasmussen University - Kansas City/Overland Park Campus*
• Saint Paul School of Theology*
• University of St. Mary – Johnson County*

*Overland Park Chamber Member

Healthcare

Overland Park residents have access to some of the best and most up-to-date medical facilities. Major medical facilities, specialty hospitals, numerous urgent care and emergency medical facilities, and dozens of assisted living, skilled nursing and home health companies provide medical care from birth to the senior years. Community leaders and a philanthropic business community support a large network of nonprofit organizations working to ensure that the increasingly diverse human service needs are being addressed.

Area hospitals are accredited in a wide range of specialties and have medical staff foremost in their fields. The University of Kansas Cancer Center, which has treatment centers in Overland Park, is the only National Cancer Institute-designed cancer center in the region.

#2 – Best Healthcare in the Nation – WalletHub, 2025

#4 – Lowest Cost of Medical Visit in America – WalletHub, 2025

#5 – Happiest City in America – WalletHub, 2025

#38 – Healthiest City in America – WalletHub, 2025

AdventHealth Shawnee Mission
9100 W 74th St, Merriam, KS 66204

AdventHealth Shawnee Mission provides comprehensive, whole-person care to the Kansas City metro area. Established in 1962, the hospital offers a wide range of services including emergency care, heart and vascular care, cancer treatment, behavioral health, mother and baby care, and specialized senior care. With a team of over 3,300 employees and nearly 700 physicians, AdventHealth Shawnee Mission is recognized for its commitment to quality, compassionate service, and community wellness initiatives, earning accolades such as Magnet recognition from the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) in 2024 and 21 consecutive high safety grades from The Leapfrog Group.

Beds: 504

AdventHealth South Overland Park 
7820 W 165th St, Overland Park, KS 66223 

AdventHealth South Overland Park is a full-service hospital. Opened in October 2021, the hospital features 38 inpatient beds with capacity for future expansion to 85, and offers a broad range of services including 24/7 emergency care, surgical & intensive care, heart & vascular care, maternity services with a birth center & level II NICU, advanced imaging, orthopedic care, and integrative medicine. As part of the AdventHealth network, it is dedicated to whole-person care addressing body, mind, and spirit for the growing communities of southern Johnson County and beyond.

Beds: 38

Children’s Mercy Hospital Kansas
5808 W 110th St, Overland Park, KS 66211

Children's Mercy Hospital Kansas is the only freestanding pediatric hospital in Kansas, offering a wide range of specialized care for children. The hospital features a 52-bed pediatric inpatient unit, a 24/7 emergency department, outpatient surgery, and more than 30 pediatric specialty clinics, including a nationally recognized Comprehensive Epilepsy Center. With amenities designed for families and child-friendly private rooms, Children's Mercy Hospital Kansas ensures expert, compassionate care for young patients throughout the region.

Beds: 52

Johnson County Rehabilitation Hospital
11325 College Blvd, Overland Park, KS 66210

Johnson County Rehabilitation Hospital is a specialized inpatient facility providing comprehensive rehabilitation services including physical, occupational, and speech therapy. It focuses on recovery from stroke, brain injury, spinal cord injury, major trauma, and medically disabling conditions through individualized, intensive therapy programs supported by advanced technologies. The hospital emphasizes a holistic, patient-centered approach to help patients regain independence and return to daily life with the support of multidisciplinary team.

Beds: 40

Menorah Medical Center
5721 W 119th St, Overland Park, KS 66209

Menorah Medical Center is a full-service, acute care hospital and ER with over 150 beds, offering advanced treatment options and compassionate care to the community. Part of the HCA Midwest Health network, the hospital features a comprehensive medical staff of more than 600 physicians and is recognized for specialties including cancer care through the Sarah Cannon Cancer Institute, a Breast Center of Excellence, bariatric surgery, robotic surgery, neurosciences, orthopedics, and women's health. Menorah Medical Center also provides 24/7 emergency services, a neonatal ICU, inpatient rehabilitation, and a wide array of outpatient services, making it a leading healthcare provider in the Kansas City region.

Beds: 155

MidAmerica Rehabilitation Hospital
5721 W 119th St, Overland Park, KS 66209

MidAmerica Rehabilitation Hospital is a 98-bed inpatient facility specializing in comprehensive rehabilitation for patients recovering from stroke, brain injury, spinal cord injury, orthopedic conditions, and other complex neurological & orthopedic issues. Accredited by The Joint Commission, the hospital provides personalized therapy programs, 24/7 specialized nursing care frequent physician visits, and advanced technologies to help patients regain independence and function. Amenities include onsite dialysis, a cafeteria, free Wi-Fi, and support services, all delivered by a multidisciplinary team dedicated to compassionate, expert care.

Beds: 98

Overland Park Regional Medical Center
10500 Quivira Rd, Overland Park, KS 66215

Overland Park Regional Medical Center (OPRMC) is a 343-bed acute care hospital, known for advanced services in cariology, surgery, trauma, and women's & children's health. It features the region's only Maternal Fetal Health Center, a Level III NICU, a dedicated pediatric center, and Johnson County's only Level II Trauma Center. The hospital offers cutting-edge treatments including robotic-assisted cardiac and orthopedic surgeries, comprehensive neurological care, and a wide range of surgical specialties, support by over 600 physicians and 1,500 staff dedicated to compassionate, patient-centered care.

Beds: 343

Saint Luke’s South Hospital
12300 Metcalf Ave, Overland Park, KS 66213

Saint Luke's South Hospital is a 171-bed facility known for its high-quality care, including 24-hour emergency services, a spacious Birth & Women's Center with a Level IIIa NICU, and the Saint Luke's Rehabilitation Institute offering advanced therapies and robotics technology. The hospital also features specialized centers such as the Jacobson & McElliott Diabetes & Endocrinology Center and the Goppert Breast Center. It has earned a five-star rating from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid services for eight consecutive years and is recognized for excellence in heart attack, heart failure, hip replacement, and knee replacement care.

Beds: 171

University of Kansas Health System - Indian Creek Campus
10710 Nall Ave, Overland Park, KS 66211

The University of Kansas Health System - Indian Creek Campus provides surgical and inpatient care along with outpatient specialty services, including The Women's Cancer Center. This location offers advanced medical specialties such as medical oncology, breast surgery, orthopedic surgery, and interventional radiology, supported by a multidisciplinary team dedicated to comprehensive, high-quality care. The campus also houses the Center for Advanced Vascular Care, featuring vascular surgeons, cardiologists, and interventional radiologists working collaboratively to deliver complex vascular treatments in one location. It operates with convenient hours Monday through Friday and offers interpreter services and valet parking for patients.

Housing

A steady increase in population and affluence in Overland Park over the past 50 years has resulted in some of the most desirable housing in the Kansas City metro area. The city has a relatively new housing stock. The median year a housing unit was built in Overland Park was 1986, compared to a median year of 1976 in greater Kansas City.

Through careful planning and development, Overland Park has all the criteria homebuyers seek: homes that retain their appeal and value, one of the nation’s lowest crime rates, schools that rank among the best in the nation, the convenience of nearby shopping and accessibility to well-maintained highways and interstates.

Best Cities to Buy a House (#2) - Niche (2023)

Best Places to Rent in the Country (#2) - Wallet Hub (2022)

Best Cities to be Stuck at Home (#4) - LawnStarter (2020)

Millennial Homeownership Rate (#27) - SmartAsset (2020)

In Overland Park, homebuyers value both high quality and affordability. The average sale price of an Overland Park home is $531,498 (Appraiser's Office, 2022) and the average appraised value is $414,689 (2022). Overland Park, as a whole, benefits from a high owner occupancy unit rate at 63.0% (Census, 2021)

The city’s older neighborhoods are generally north of 95^th Street, where well-maintained and picturesque homes date to the post-World War II migration of families from Kansas City’s inner neighborhoods to the suburbs. These older neighborhoods offer first-time homebuyers excellent choices. To help maintain these historic neighborhoods, the City of Overland Park offers programs to assist homeowners with property maintenance.

Residential development has burgeoned south of Interstate 435, expanding the city limits as far south as 203^rd Street. Real estate in southern Overland Park is ideal for those who want to invest in a larger, feature-packed home and are relocating from a more expensive market.

Newer options in the local housing market have been mixed-use developments where townhomes, condos, lofts and apartments share a village-like setting with retail and office space and entertainment venues, giving residents an urban lifestyle where they can walk to shops, dining, entertainment and everyday services. There are a number of new housing properties in and near downtown Overland Park, including Avenue 80, InterUrban Lofts, and The Promontory, with more housing options developing at locations like CityPlace.

Source: City of Overland Park, American Community Survey, Johnson County, County Economic Research Institute (CERI), ESRI, U.S. Census Bureau

Lifestyle

Overland Park residents can enjoy an active lifestyle with a diverse range of options for leisurely pursuits – from sports and recreation to unique entertainment venues, flourishing arts and some of the Midwest’s best shopping and dining. With 83 city parks, five public swimming pools, miles of recreational trails, state-of-the-art community centers, public and private golf courses, there’s no lack of ways to stay healthy.

For sports and recreation, Overland Park has premier facilities that include Blue Valley Recreation Commission’s rec centers and sports complexes, Scheels Overland Park Soccer Complex and Urban Air Adventure Park.

The 12-acre Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead and the 300-acre Overland Park Arboretum and Botanical Gardens are unique places to appreciate nature and our agricultural heritage.

The Overland Park Farmers’ Market in Downtown Overland Park is a vibrant public gathering spot that builds community pride and spirit by bringing together shoppers of all ages and interests. In a nationwide contest held in 2022, it received the most votes to be named the favorite farmers market in the country.

The Johnson County Arts and Heritage Center, housed in a modernist landmark built in 1959, is home to the Johnson County Museum and numerous arts and theatre programs. A newer landmark is the Museum at Prairiefire, known for its gleaming dichroic glass façade on the outside and its meaningful learning experiences on the inside.

Visual and performing arts flourish. Sculptures and other artworks are on display in city parks, along major thoroughfares and in numerous public spaces. Johnson County Community College enriches the community with its Nerman Museum of Contemporary Art, renowned Oppenheimer Collection and performing arts at the college’s first-class venues.

A full season of events presents the opportunity to enjoy beautiful outdoor settings at events such as the Clock Tower Concert Series at the Farmer’s Market, concerts in city parks, festivals in the downtown district and numerous events at the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens.

Newer attractions feature unique entertainment where you can hit microchipped golf balls in climate-controlled hitting bays, play bocce or pickleball, swing an axe at the target, work as a team to escape a locked room, and face off against friends, family or co-workers in a game show arena.

Best City for Families (#1) - Livability (2022)

Top Farmers Market in the United States (#1) - America's Farmers Market Celebration (2022)

Best Places to Live (#29) - Money Magazine (2023)

Happiest Cities in America (#15) - WalletHub, March 9 (2020)

For more information on things to do in Overland Park: Visit Overland Park & the City of Overland Park

Retail

In 2015, Overland Park welcomed two first-to-market retail stores that had consumers buzzing with anticipation. SCHEELS, a 220,000-square-foot sporting goods store opened in Corbin Park and became an instant attraction with unparalleled retail options, as well as a Ferris wheel and an aquarium. The opening of The Container Store capped off the redevelopment of Hawthorne Plaza at 119^th Street and Roe Avenue. Retail comprises 11 percent of business activity in Overland Park, which has nearly 18 million square feet of retail space. Overland Park boasts hundreds of locally-owned shops, along with nationally-recognized retailers and department stores. Retail sales have grown by 6.2 percent in recent years to nearly $5 billion. Of the $14.4 billion in total retail sales in Johnson County in 2018, Overland Park was responsible for 34.6%.

Much of the city’s retail development can be found along Metcalf Avenue, the city’s historic main artery running north and south and along the east-west corridors of 95^th, 119^th, 135^th and 151^st streets. New developments along the Metcalf corridor include the Lowe's at 95th Street and the shops at Promontory between 89th and 91st Streets.

Committed to reinvigorating the Metcalf corridor, the City of Overland Park adopted Vision Metcalf, a long-range plan that encourages mixed-use development, integrated open and green space, and a balanced transportation system that embraces pedestrian usage and sustainability measures.

Downtown Overland Park blends the traditions of a Main Street setting with the more contemporary vibe of one-of-a-kind local shops, art galleries, restaurants, services, events and one of the city’s most popular attractions: the Farmers’ Market. Century-old buildings stand next to sleek new buildings. Several mixed-use development projects are in the works that will bring multi-family units with ground-floor retail space, promising to increase the activity and vibrant atmosphere of the city’s heart.

Overland Park has numerous indoor and outdoor shopping centers. At 1.5 million square feet, Oak Park Mall is the largest enclosed mall in both the Kansas City metro area and the entire state of Kansas. Nordstrom, LEGO and Microsoft are among its 200 stores and restaurants. Other open-air shopping centers, such as Hawthorne Plaza, Rosana Square and the Shoppes at Deer Creek Woods, offer upscale stores and dining.

A new hot spot for retail in Overland Park is 135^th Street where two active retail developments, Prairiefire and Corbin Park, are side by side between Metcalf Avenue and Nall Avenue. Prairiefire is a 58-acre mixed-used project that integrates residential, office, retail and entertainment. Corbin Park is a 1.1 million-square-foot retail village with Tuscan-inspired architecture and tree-lined courtyards. Its anchor stores include Von Maur, JC Penney and SCHEELS, which offers the state’s largest selection of sporting goods.