Let the numbers do the talking.
Gardner, KS vs Olathe, KS
Gardner, KS vs Olathe, KS: What the data shows
Gardner, KS is in Gardner, KS while Olathe, KS is in Olathe, KS — both in the same state. On home prices, Olathe, KS is the more affordable option at $314,200 median — $800 less than Gardner, KS's $315,000. WYLT rates Gardner, KS as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Olathe, KS as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration.
Both neighborhoods have similar safety profiles. Gardner, KS has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Olathe, KS has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Gardner, KS has Low flood risk and Olathe, KS has Low flood risk.
Olathe, KS is the more walkable neighborhood. Gardner, KS scores 7/100 (car-dependent) versus Olathe, KS's 23/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Olathe, KS has the higher school rating — Gardner, KS rates 6.8/10 and Olathe, KS rates 7.2/10.
| Category | Gardner, KS | Olathe, KS |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Good for now |
| Median Price | $315K | $314K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $1K | $1K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $92K | $104K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 7/100 | 23/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | 2/100 | 20/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | 31/100 ✓ More bikeable | N/A |
| Commute | 30 min ✓ Shorter commute | 35 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good ✓ Cleaner air | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 6.8/10 | 7.2/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | FamiliesFirst‑time homebuyersRemote workers | FamiliesCommuters to Kansas CityRemote workers |
Bottom line
For families and commuters seeking stability and strong schools, Olathe might be the slightly better choice due to its slightly higher school rating and similar commute time. However, both neighborhoods prioritize driving over walkability, making them less ideal for those who want a more urban or public transit-oriented lifestyle. Overall, both neighborhoods cater to similar needs, but Olathe offers a slight edge for those prioritizing schools, while Gardner offers equally affordable housing.
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