Located in Northeastern Johnson County, the neighboring communities of Merriam, Fairway and Countryside offer a comfortable quality of life within the Kansas City metropolitan area. Although Merriam, Fairway and Countryside are relatively small in population – 12,000, 4,000 and 300 respectively – residents enjoy a growing local economy and a wealth of recreational activities. Fairway and Countryside are primarily residential, but nearby Merriam’s retail trade and professional services sectors are strong. Plus, the location is convenient for those employed in the metropolitan Kansas City area, which is just 10 miles north. Several major roadways are nearby including Interstates 35, 635 and 29, which make for an easy commute. Industries that provide employment in the area include educational, health and social services, retail trade and professional, scientific, management, administrative and waste management services. Students of the area in grades K-12 are served by Shawnee Mission Schools. Many colleges and universities are in proximity for those who wish to attain a degree in higher education. Recreational activities revolve around the outdoors. Hiking and biking are popular, as is enjoying local parks and community festivals. Antioch Park in Merriam is one of the most active in the region, offering 44 acres of land, two fishing lakes and children’s play facilities. Residents will enjoy being minutes from the world renowned Country Club Plaza, and less than 30 minutes from downtown Kansas City with the new Sprint Center and Kansas City Power and Light District. Real estate options in Merriam, Fairway and Countryside consist of single-family detached homes, estate properties, condominiums, townhouses and land lots.