Downtown Kansas City is not just growing, it’s evolving. With the average rent hovering around $1,623/month for units in the downtown core. Aligning your amenity strategy with what today’s renter truly wants is critical to leasing velocity, resident retention, and long-term asset value.
Smart, Work-from-Home Friendly Spaces
Why it matters
With flexible and hybrid work models now the norm, renters (especially young professionals in downtown cores) expect more than just a gym or pool. High-end high-rise projects are seeing an increase in smart-building technology, coworking spaces, meeting areas for teams to meet the demand on today’s renters.
What renters are looking for
- Dedicated coworking lounge or business centre with high-speed internet and private booking rooms.
- Units wired for high-bandwidth, reliable WiFi and smart home integration.
- Flexible floor plans (e.g., a den or work nook) that support remote work.
Pet-Friendly Features & Outdoor Amenity Access
Why it matters
Many renters view a pet as part of their lifestyle, and downtown urban living doesn’t always make that easy. Beyond the unit, shared amenities like lush outdoor spaces and pet-friendly zones matter.
What to deliver
- Secure, designated dog run or pet relief area on property.
- Outdoor terrace or rooftop amenity space with seating, cooking zones, and greenery, especially in the downtown high-rise context.
- Pet-friendly building policies + concierge-style services (grooming, dog-walking partnerships).
Premium Social & Recreation Spaces
Why it matters
Renter demand in downtown KC still values lifestyle-driven buildings. According to MetroWire Media, “resort-style amenities, smart tech integration, spaces that foster community” are key.
What to deliver
- Rooftop terrace/lounge with skyline views, grills, seating.
- Resort-style pool/spa or at least premium fitness zone.
- Event spaces or resident lounges where social programming (happy hour, mixers) can happen.
Location & Connectivity Features
Why it matters
Amenities don’t just live inside the building. The location and how renters connect to the city are included in any amenity package. Downtown Kansas City has rising dwelling demand with walkability and work/play access as drivers.
What to deliver
- Easy access/transit: building near streetcar, bus, or major walk corridors.
- Bike storage, e-bike or scooter parking.
- Concierge or valet services (parking, package handling) to support urban living.
In-Unit Convenience & Technology Integration
Why it matters
While shared amenities attract renters, their decision often comes down to what the individual unit offers. National data shows amenities like parking, in-unit laundry, smart features are increasingly top-of-mind.
What to deliver
- In-unit washer and dryer as standard.
- Smart home controls (thermostat, lighting, door locks) and high-speed internet included or easy to upgrade.
- Ample storage, quality finishes (especially in downtown luxury builds).
As downtown Kansas City continues to attract renters (with new residents and a high renter-share of the downtown population), the market demands that multifamily operators to move beyond their focus of location and price to deliver a full amenity ecosystem.