Largest cities in Kansas

Kansas, known for its vast prairies and pioneering spirit, is a state that offers a high quality of life and a strong sense of community. With a population of approximately 2.9 million, it ranks as the 35th most populated state in the U.S. Kansas has experienced stable population growth, driven by its appealing living conditions and economic opportunities. Bordered by Nebraska to the north, Missouri to the east, Oklahoma to the south, and Colorado to the west, Kansas offers a variety of living environments across its roughly 600 cities and towns.

Living in Kansas provides residents with numerous advantages, including a low cost of living, excellent schools, and a strong job market. The state's low population density allows for spacious living and a slower pace of life, with ample opportunities for outdoor activities and community engagement. Kansas's economy is diverse, with strengths in agriculture, manufacturing, and technology. The state's stable population growth supports a balanced and sustainable development path. The AreaVibes list of the largest cities in Kansas, based on data from the United States Census Bureau's American Community Survey, offers a comprehensive overview of Kansas cities by population, highlighting the state's most significant urban centers.

Wichita Population: 390,566 Livability Score: 68

Area Size: 416 KM² Density (sq mi): 2,411 Med. Household Income: $53,466

Wichita, KS, known as 'The Air Capital of the World,' offers a unique blend of Midwestern charm and urban amenities. Located in southern Kansas, Wichita is a large city that serves as a major cultural and economic hub. Major nearby cities like Hutchinson and Derby enhance its status as a central point in the region. Wichita's blend of historic landmarks, cultural festivals, and urban amenities creates a distinctive living experience.

Overland Park Population: 193,412 Livability Score: 79

Area Size: 195 KM² Density (sq mi): 2,573 Med. Household Income: $87,629

Overland Park, KS, known as "The Heart of Johnson County," is renowned for its beautiful landscapes and vibrant community. Located in northeastern Kansas, Overland Park is approximately 12 miles southwest of Kansas City, MO, and 180 miles northeast of Wichita. This medium-sized city offers a blend of suburban charm and urban amenities, making it an attractive place to reside.

Kansas City Population: 153,014 Livability Score: 75

Area Size: 323 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,227 Med. Household Income: $46,424

Kansas City, KS, known as "The Heart of America," is a vibrant community with a rich cultural heritage and a high quality of life. Located in northeastern Kansas, Kansas City is approximately 5 miles west of Kansas City, MO, and 50 miles east of Topeka. This medium-sized city is celebrated for its beautiful parks, historic sites, and thriving arts scene.

Olathe Population: 139,216 Livability Score: 78

Area Size: 158 KM² Density (sq mi): 2,245 Med. Household Income: $96,548

Olathe, KS, known as 'The City Beautiful,' offers a unique blend of suburban tranquility and modern urban amenities. Located in Johnson County, Olathe is a large city that serves as a major cultural and economic hub. Major nearby cities like Kansas City (20 miles) and Overland Park (10 miles) enhance its status as a central point in the region. Olathe's blend of scenic landscapes, cultural festivals, and urban amenities creates a distinctive living experience.

Topeka Population: 125,819 Livability Score: 69

Area Size: 159 KM² Density (sq mi): 2,042 Med. Household Income: $49,647

Topeka, the capital city of Kansas, offers a blend of historical significance and modern amenities. Located along the Kansas River, Topeka is known for its rich history, including its role in the civil rights movement with the landmark Brown v. Board of Education case. The city's historic sites, cultural attractions, and strong sense of community make living in Topeka an appealing experience.

Lawrence Population: 97,348 Livability Score: 88

Area Size: 88 KM² Density (sq mi): 2,850 Med. Household Income: $55,598

Lawrence, KS, known for its 'Small-Town Feel,' offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern urban amenities. Located in Douglas County, Lawrence is a large city that serves as a major cultural and economic hub. Major nearby cities like Kansas City (41 miles) and Topeka (25 miles) enhance its status as a central point in the region. Lawrence's blend of scenic landscapes, cultural festivals, and urban amenities creates a distinctive living experience.

Shawnee Population: 65,844 Livability Score: 88

Area Size: 108 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,569 Med. Household Income: $88,941

Manhattan Population: 55,045 Livability Score: 81

Area Size: 50 KM² Density (sq mi): 2,763 Med. Household Income: $50,957

Lenexa Population: 54,804 Livability Score: 86

Area Size: 88 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,609 Med. Household Income: $90,487

Salina Population: 46,706 Livability Score: 72

Area Size: 67 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,812 Med. Household Income: $49,870

Full list of the largest cities in Kansas

Rank	Location	Population	Area KM²	Median Income	Livability Score
1	Wichita	390,566	416	$53,466	68
2	Overland Park	193,412	195	$87,629	79
3	Kansas City	153,014	323	$46,424	75
4	Olathe	139,216	158	$96,548	78
5	Topeka	125,819	159	$49,647	69
6	Lawrence	97,348	88	$55,598	88
7	Shawnee	65,844	108	$88,941	88
8	Manhattan	55,045	50	$50,957	81
9	Lenexa	54,804	88	$90,487	86
10	Salina	46,706	67	$49,870	72
11	Hutchinson	40,669	64	$48,889	67
12	Leavenworth	36,129	63	$60,870	73
13	Leawood	34,702	39	$156,538	74
14	Dodge City	27,186	38	$52,654	74
15	Garden City	26,403	28	$56,274	69
16	Emporia	24,631	31	$43,481	74
17	Derby	24,428	27	$74,447	66
18	Junction City	22,616	29	$52,159	63
19	Prairie Village	22,255	16	$88,196	82
20	Gardner	21,936	26	$78,193	75
21	Hays	20,855	22	$52,135	78
22	Pittsburg	20,096	34	$34,353	65
23	Liberal	19,025	30	$48,434	71
24	Newton	18,846	37	$56,729	64
25	Great Bend	15,224	27	$46,659	68
26	Andover	13,609	26	$98,320	70
27	McPherson	13,066	19	$57,931	78
28	El Dorado	12,976	24	$41,467	68
29	Ottawa	12,308	26	$47,233	69
30	Winfield	11,990	29	$48,027	71
31	Lansing	11,955	31	$87,154	74
32	Arkansas City	11,767	24	$46,331	68
33	Haysville	11,260	12	$54,982	73
34	Merriam	11,191	11	$63,347	75
35	Atchison	10,561	21	$47,742	63
36	Parsons	9,648	27	$41,091	72
37	Mission	9,618	7	$64,703	79
38	Augusta	9,363	11	$52,274	59
39	Coffeyville	9,343	24	$34,727	59
40	Chanute	9,044	18	$45,238	63
41	Fort Riley	8,720	13	$43,445	55
42	Independence	8,595	20	$38,963	68
43	Bel Aire	8,082	18	$84,605	70
44	Bonner Springs	7,846	40	$68,250	59
45	Valley Center	7,843	18	$66,250	71
46	Wellington	7,716	19	$48,279	66
47	Fort Scott	7,715	14	$37,279	65
48	Park City	7,654	25	$67,286	62
49	Spring Hill	6,992	23	$85,244	73
50	Roeland Park	6,747	4	$73,786	84

Methodology

To compile the list of the largest cities in Kansas, AreaVibes used census data from the United States Census Bureau's American Community Survey (ACS). The American Community Survey releases updated estimates annually, offering a valuable resource for understanding the evolving dynamics within communities. These estimates are crucial for officials, community leaders, businesses, and local residents as they provide insights into demographic, economic, and social changes. By analyzing ACS data, stakeholders can make informed decisions, plan for future developments, and address the needs of their communities effectively. The detailed population information from the ACS helps track trends, allocate resources, and implement policies that enhance the quality of life for all residents.

Map of the population Density by State

Well Below nat. avg.
Below nat. avg.
Similar to nat. avg.
Above nat. avg.
Well above nat. avg.

The map above serves as an excellent tool for discovering the most and least densely populated states across the United States. By highlighting both the states with the highest and lowest population density, it offers a comprehensive view of the nation's demographic landscape. This visual representation allows users to easily compare different regions, making it a valuable resource for anyone considering relocation or investment opportunities. Living in high density states could give you access to the following benefits: additional economic opportunities, enhanced amenities, improved health care, better infrastructure and technological advancement. Less densely poupulated states on the other hand, often have a lower cost of living, reduced traffic, closer-knit communities, abundant natural spaces and lower crime rates.