$407,669Average Value$218Average Price per Sq Ft6Homes For Sale
There are several Victorian-style homes along the shaded streets of Old West Lawrence.
One of Lawrence’s first and most historically significant neighborhoods
Old West Lawrence was a victim of one of the most infamous incidents in Kansas history. In 1863, William Quantrill led pro-slavery fighters on a raid of the free-state stronghold of Lawrence. While Old West Lawrence lost many houses during the attack, a few survived. These mid-1800s houses can be seen across the neighborhood’s east end and continue to attract occupants drawn to their distinct character. “A lot of our homes are historic homes. A full five blocks of our neighborhood is on the historic register,” says Maren Bradley, president of the Old West Neighborhood Association. “It’s just a very rich history, and people live in them as residents, not just as hotels or Airbnbs.” In fact, conditions exist to protect Old West Lawrence’s distinct character. Not only are new short-term rentals or Airbnb units not allowed in the neighborhood, but additions to the homes in the historic district require approval from Lawrence’s Historic Resources Commission. Old West Lawrence is also close to some of the city’s major destinations. Downtown is a few blocks east of the neighborhood, and many make the walk there. Other nearby places include the city’s public outdoor pool and its library. “It’s a much desired area. Everybody seeks it out,” says Robert Coleman, a Realtor with Stephens Real Estate, who’s been involved in several restaurant ventures in the neighborhood. “It’s just a good place to raise kids, retire or just live because it’s so close to downtown.”
Prevalent Victorian-era architecture
Many houses here date back to the 1800s and early 1900s, and the ones on the neighborhood’s west end were added after Quantrill’s Raid. Victorian-era architecture features prominently in Old West Lawrence with its collection of colorful Italianates and Queen Annes. Other builds like Craftsman bungalows, foursquares and English cottages exist, and there are also a number of post-World War II duplexes. Groups of mature trees line Old West Lawrence’s streets, while red brick roads pass through some of the neighborhood’s blocks. The neighborhood boasts a high Walk Score of 88 out of 100 and an even higher Bike Score of 97 out of 100. Price points mostly run from just under $200,000 to $400,000 on the west end and can reach up to about $500,000 on the east side. Large, newly remodeled homes may approach $600,000. The east side sees more ornate and grandiose Victorian-era houses on lots that can reach up to about a quarter-acre — or twice the size of the footprints seen across the remainder of the neighborhood. “The properties over there have been maintained very nicely, and it’s a generally wealthier part of our neighborhood, with larger lot sizes as well," Bradley says.
Old West Lawrence is know for its vintage homes.
Homes in a variety of styles are scattered throughout Old West Lawrence.
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Small plates with ‘big flavors’ at new Fork and Tumbler
While it’s only a few blocks from many downtown institutions, Old West Lawrence has some staples of its own along both West Ninth and West Sixth streets. Coleman recently opened Fork and Tumbler, which is quickly developing a following. The restaurant specializes in small plates that Coleman says come with “big flavors.” Serving meals with Southwest influence, the menu includes burgers, wings and desserts. “There’s just so much. We don’t even have salt and pepper shakers in the restaurant. That’s how good it is, and don’t ask for one either,” Coleman says jokingly. For Asian fare, there’s the Red Pepper Chinese Restaurant. Running out of a vintage space, the Big Mill serves craft cocktails and a variety of comfort foods ranging from plates of nachos to fish and chips and burgers served with a side of cheese-sprinkled sweet potato fries. Great Harvest Bread has long been a destination for a variety of treats ranging from artisan breads and pastries to grilled sandwiches and health breakfast options like avocado toasts. Those looking for more artisan goods and fresh produce can stop by the Lawrence Farmers Market downtown. The market runs every Saturday morning between April and late November. Downtown is home to Au Marche, a gourmet grocery store. More grocery options exist at Dillons less than 2 miles south of the neighborhood.
Summer swims at Watson Park
Located on the historic east end, the 7-acre Buford M. Watson Jr. Park is the neighborhood’s main outdoor space. Parents can take their children to the park’s playground to burn off some energy, while others can organize picnics and cookouts under the gazebo. Another distinct sight at the park is an original train locomotive. Those looking for some water fun during the summer can also walk to the Lawrence Outdoor Aquatic Center on the southern end of the park. In addition to the pool, the facility offers slides and a splash pad area complete with mushroom-shaped water sprays. The center also hosts special events like an Adult Swim Night in July. Clinton Park across West Sixth Street to the north offers pleasant scenery to take in and a playground with a spiral slide and swing sets.
Watson Park is a great place to bring the whole family.
There are plenty of paved walking trails thoughout Watson Park.
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Strongly rated schools with STEM focuses
Students here start at Hillcrest Elementary School in the neighboring community of the same name. Hillcrest receives a B grade from ratings site Niche. Students then attend nearby Liberty Memorial Central Middle School, which also receives a B from Niche. The middle school is launching a STEAM initiative beginning in the 2024-2025 school year. The program will involve a number of activities like hands-on work and courses in skills like 3D design and coding. Students will also be asked to study fine arts activities like band, choir or theater. To finish their secondary education, students here attend Lawrence Free State High School, which receives an A-minus from Niche and also offers some special STEM activities.
Liberty Memorial Central Middle School has great after-school programs.
Free State High School has good sports programs.
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July 4 bike parade and neighborhood potluck
Old West Lawrence puts on a bike parade every July 4. Participants decorate their bikes and even baby strollers and pass through the eastern part of the neighborhood and Watson Park. Children attending can also enjoy popsicles. In September, the neighborhood hosts a major street party and potluck where residents grill and enjoy beverages. About 200 of the neighborhood’s 1,000 or so residents typically turn out for the event.
The Lawrence Bus Station makes getting around town easy.
Close to Interstate 70 and a major hospital
West Sixth Street — also U.S. highways 40 and 59 — forms Old West Lawrence’s northern border. The roadway provides a connection to Interstate 70 about 2 miles north of the neighborhood. I-70 provides direct commuter routes to both Topeka and Kansas City. The proximity to downtown puts the neighborhood less than a mile from Lawrence’s Amtrak station. The station is a stop for the Southwest Chief Train, which runs to Kansas City and can go as far west as Los Angeles. The Lawrence Transit System keeps a few bus stops in the neighborhood and provides alternative transportation options. For out-of-state flights, many here go to the Kansas City International Airport, about 50 miles east and 47 minutes from Lawrence. Those needing major medical care are less than a mile from Lawrence Memorial Hospital.
Important to know
The neighborhood has an overall CAP Index crime score of six out of 10, slightly higher than the national average.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
Interested in learning more about homes in this neighborhood?
Reach out to
Teresa Hoffman,
an experienced agent in this area.
Parks in this Area
Centennial Park
Burcham Park
John Taylor Park
Robinson Park
South Park
Water Tower Park
Riverfront Dog Park
Clinton Park
Woody Park
Crime and Safety
1 - Low Crime, 10 - High Crime
Old West Lawrence
US
Homicide
4
4
Sexual Assault
7
4
Assault with Weapon
4
4
Robbery
5
4
Burglary
7
4
Motor Vehicle Theft
8
4
Larceny
8
4
Crime Score
6
4
Source: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com
Demographics and Home Trends
On average, homes in Old West Lawrence, Lawrence sell after 45 days on the market compared to the national average of 47 days. The average sale price for homes in Old West Lawrence, Lawrence over the last 12 months is $384,359, up 13% from the average home sale price over the previous 12 months.
The Howard and Edith Taylor residence has been a place of peace & pleasure for the past 139 years. 621 Louisiana is a contributing home in the Old West Lawrence historic district. She has been lovingly cared for and improved in recent years perfectly blending old world charm with modern conveniences. Improvements include a new main level bathroom, designed by Arch & Gable, constructed by Landon
A charming Victorian house that exudes timeless elegance. Adorned with architectural detail inside and out, this gem shines bright with fresh interior and exterior paint and sunlight that filters in through the stained-glass and transom windows. An eye catching archway with pocket doors leads you from the spacious living area into an updated kitchen that offers plenty of room for cooking and
Sweet Brick home in the heart of Lawrence. Whether you're buying the home to live in or keep as a rental, this home is ready for you! On the main level you will find a brick fireplace in a spacious living area, dining area with built in's, kitchen with lots of storage, and a covered area to sit and enjoy. Upstairs there are 3 bedrooms, 2 that are vaulted and spacious, and a small bedroom or
THIS IS A RARE OPPORTTUNITY TO OWN A HISTORIC OLD WEST LAWRENCE LANDMARK.. BUILT IN 1899 BY LOUIS AND EVA POHLER THIS ROMANTIC STYLE HOME OFFERS MANY ORIGINAL LIGHT FIXTURES, 3 ORIGINAL POCKET DOORS, WOOD FLOORS, WOOD TRIM AND DOORS. BEAUTIFUL FRONT PARLOR WITH ABUNDENT SUNSHINE FROM A LARGE BAY WINOW, THE CURRENT OWNERS OF 32+ YEARS HAVE LOVED LIVING IN THIS NEIGHBORHOOD NEAR DOWNTOWN, K.U. AND
Wonderfully remodeled on Old West Lawrence home! This his house was moved onto its new foundation in 1950 and a recent modern overhaul makes it a great place to live! So much new including: electrical, insulation, hvac, roof, sewer line, and the list goes on... You have room to roam with 4 bedrooms spread out between the three floors. Primary bedroom is on the main level! Beautiful original wood
Freshly remodeled! Bigger than it looks at 3000 sq ft, this Old West Lawrence home boasts a rare main floor master, 3 additional, bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, & a finished basement. It has all new electrical, plumbing, sewer line, roof, HVAC, appliances, concrete patios, closed cell insulation, cabinets, granite countertops, the list goes on. Original sawtooth oak floors and windows give it
728 Ohio #4$1280House with 4 units2 bedrooms1 BathroomDishwasher and FridgeCompact stove & ovenWasher/Dryer Stack UnitClawfoot tub with showerLarge kitchen with dining area Wood and vinyl Floors Window air conditionersPrivat entry One off street parking spaceWalk to KU and downtownShared front porchTenants pay all
AVAILABLE AUGUST 4TH, 2025! 2 bedroom, 1 bathroom upstairs apartment on 6th Street, just minutes from downtown Lawrence. Window A/C provided. $180/month added to rent for gas and water. Tenant pays electricity.
Interested in learning more about homes in this neighborhood?
Reach out to
Teresa Hoffman,
an experienced agent in this area.
Average Home Value
Source: Public Records
Property Mix - Square Feet
This Neighborhood Has More Owners
Demographics
Total Population
1,158
Median Age
40
Population Density
8 ppl/acre
Population under 18
17%
Below the national average
23.8%
Population over 65
19.6%
On par with the national average
19.1%
Finances
Median Household Income
$71,931
On par with the national average
$71,702
Average Household Income
$123,464
Education and Workforce
High School Graduates
93.5%
College Graduates
44.4%
Above the national average
34.1%
Advanced Degrees
21.4%
Above the national average
13.3%
% Population in Labor Force
71.3%
Weather
Annual Precipitation
40''
Average Winter Low Temperature
20°F
Average Summer High Temperature
88°F
Annual Snowfall
11''
Area Factors
Biker's Paradise
Bike Score®
97/ 100
Very Walkable
Walk Score®
88/ 100
Source: Walk Score
Source: Walk Score
Sound Score® measures the noise level of any address. Transit Score® measures access to public transit. Bike Score® measures the bikeability of any address.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
