The Most Popular City in Kansas, Ranked

Choose the city you think is the most popular!

Author: Gregor Krambs
Updated on May 6, 2024 06:33
Determining the most popular city in Kansas involves understanding diverse factors such as cultural vibrancy, historical significance, quality of life, and economic opportunities. Such rankings can greatly assist individuals and families considering a relocation, help business owners decide on new locations, or simply satisfy the curiosity of those interested in the state's geographic and social dynamics. By participating in rankings like these, users gain the ability to influence perceptions and highlight the aspects of each city they find most compelling. This engagement not only enriches the accuracy of the ratings but also creates a sense of community among participants from different parts of the state, each sharing their firsthand experiences and insights.

What Is the Most Popular City in Kansas?

  1. 1
    55
    votes
    With a population of over 389,000, Wichita is the largest city in Kansas and home to a variety of attractions, including the Sedgwick County Zoo and the Old Town entertainment district.
    Wichita is the most populous city in the state of Kansas and the 49th-largest city in the United States. It is located in Sedgwick County and serves as the county seat. Known as 'The Air Capital of the World,' Wichita is a major aerospace manufacturing hub and houses several aircraft companies and suppliers. The city also offers a vibrant cultural scene, with numerous art galleries, museums, and theaters.
    • Population: Approximately 389,938 (as of 2019)
    • Area: 163.59 square miles
    • Elevation: 1,299 feet
    • Major Industries: Aerospace manufacturing, healthcare, education, finance
    • Wichita State University: Home to a prestigious research university
  2. 2
    54
    votes
    Overland Park
    Nightryder84 · CC BY-SA 3.0

    Overland Park

    William B. Strang Jr.
    Located in the Kansas City metropolitan area, Overland Park is the second-largest city in Kansas and known for its vibrant downtown and numerous parks and trails.
    Overland Park is the most populous city in the state of Kansas. It is located in Johnson County, just a few miles southwest of downtown Kansas City. With a population of over 190,000 residents, it is the second largest city in Kansas. Overland Park is known for its vibrant culture, low crime rate, excellent schools, and high quality of life.
    • Population: 190,000+
    • Location: Johnson County, Kansas
    • Proximity: Few miles southwest of downtown Kansas City
    • Size: 75.37 square miles
    • Culture: Vibrant and diverse
  3. 3
    24
    votes
    While technically located in Missouri, the Kansas City metropolitan area extends into Kansas and includes cities like Overland Park and Olathe. The area is known for its barbecue, jazz music, and sports teams.
    Kansas City is the largest city in the state of Missouri, located at the western edge of the state. However, a portion of the city extends into the neighboring state of Kansas. It is a major cultural and economic center in the Midwest region of the United States.
    • Population: Approximately 500,000 (city), 2.1 million (metropolitan area)
    • Area: 319.03 square miles (826.28 square kilometers)
    • Nicknames: City of Fountains, Paris of the Plains
    • River: Missouri River - flows adjacent to the city
    • Airport: Kansas City International Airport (MCI)
    Kansas City in other rankings
  4. 4
    22
    votes
    The capital of Kansas, Topeka is home to several museums, including the Kansas Museum of History and the Brown v. Board of Education National Historic Site.
    Topeka is the capital city of the state of Kansas, located in Shawnee County. It is the fourth largest city in Kansas and serves as an important economic and cultural center in the region. Topeka offers a mix of urban amenities and natural beauty, with numerous parks and recreational areas. The city is known for its rich history, diverse arts scene, and friendly community.
    • Population: Approximately 126,587
    • Area: 61.47 square miles (159.14 km²)
    • Elevation: 945 feet (288 meters)
    • Founded: December 5, 1854
    • Government: Mayor–Council
  5. 5
    10
    votes
    Another city in the Kansas City metropolitan area, Olathe is known for its excellent schools and family-friendly community.
  6. 6
    11
    votes
    Located west of Kansas City, Lawrence is home to the University of Kansas and known for its arts and culture scene.
    Lawrence is a vibrant city located in the state of Kansas. It is known for its rich history, diverse arts and culture scene, and its prestigious university. The city offers a charming blend of small-town charm and big-city amenities, making it a popular destination for residents and visitors alike.
    • Population: Approximately 98,193 residents
    • Area: 34.26 square miles
    • Location: Located in Douglas County, Kansas
    • University: Home to the University of Kansas, a renowned public research university
    • Arts and Culture: Abundance of art galleries, theaters, and music venues
  7. 7
    8
    votes
    A suburb of Kansas City, Shawnee is known for its parks and recreation opportunities, including the Shawnee Mission Park and the Shawnee Town 1929 museum.
    Shawnee is a city located in Johnson County, Kansas. It is considered one of the most populous cities in the state and is a part of the Kansas City metropolitan area. Shawnee offers a suburban feel with modern amenities, making it an attractive place to live for families and professionals alike.
    • Population: Approximately 65,377 residents
    • Location: Johnson County, Kansas
    • Size: Approximately 42.86 square miles
    • Geography: Situated on rolling terrain with many parks and trails
    • Education: Multiple public and private schools, including Shawnee Mission School District
  8. 8
    13
    votes
    Home to Kansas State University, Manhattan is known for its college town vibe and outdoor recreation opportunities in the nearby Flint Hills.
    The Manhattan is a classic cocktail that originated in the late 19th century. It is a strong and sophisticated cocktail that combines the rich flavors of whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters, with a hint of cherry. The Manhattan is typically served straight up in a cocktail glass and garnished with a cherry or a twist of lemon peel.
    • Primary alcohol: Whiskey (usually rye)
    • Secondary alcohol: Sweet vermouth
    • Additional alcohol: Angostura bitters
    • Serving: Straight up in a cocktail glass
    • Glassware: Martini or coupe glass
  9. 9
    10
    votes
    Located in central Kansas, Salina is known for its historic downtown and the Smoky Hill River Festival, an annual arts and music event.
    Salina is a city located in central Kansas known for its vibrant community and diverse attractions. It offers a mix of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and modern amenities that make it a popular destination for both residents and visitors.
    • Population: Approximately 47,000
    • Location: Located in Saline County in central Kansas
    • Geographical Features: Situated along the banks of the Smoky Hill River
    • Attractions: Salina Art Center, Rolling Hills Zoo, Smoky Hill Museum
    • Education: Home to Kansas State University Polytechnic Campus
  10. 10
    4
    votes
    Known for its Kansas State Fair, Hutchinson is also home to several museums, including the Cosmosphere space museum and the Kansas Underground Salt Museum.
    Hutchinson is a city located in Reno County, Kansas. It is known for its friendly atmosphere, rich history, and diverse attractions. The city offers a perfect blend of small-town charm and urban amenities, making it a popular destination for residents and visitors alike.
    • Population: Approximately 40,000
    • Area: Approximately 25.5 square miles
    • Year Founded: 1871
    • Major Industries: Manufacturing, agriculture, education
    • Tourist Attractions: Kansas Cosmosphere and Space Center, Strataca, Hutchinson Zoo

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Ranking factors for popular city

  1. Population
    The number of people living in the city can be an indicator of popularity. Larger cities often have more amenities, entertainment options, and job opportunities, which can attract more residents.
  2. Economic growth and job opportunities
    A city with a strong economy and plenty of job opportunities will likely be more popular than a city with an unstable economy or limited job prospects.
  3. Tourism and attractions
    Cities with more tourist attractions, historical sites, and cultural activities are generally more popular than those with fewer amenities.
  4. Quality of life
    Factors such as crime rates, education system, healthcare availability, and affordability of housing can contribute to a city's popularity.
  5. Infrastructure and accessibility
    A city with good infrastructure, such as well-maintained roads and public transportation, makes it easier for people to travel within the city and can attract more residents.
  6. Natural beauty and climate
    Some cities may be more popular due to their natural beauty or climate, which attracts outdoor enthusiasts or those looking for a more temperate living environment.
  7. Sports and entertainment
    Professional sports teams, music venues, and festivals can boost a city's popularity as people are drawn to these events and activities.
  8. Reputation and media presence
    The overall reputation and media coverage of a city can influence its popularity as positive stories and reviews can attract more people to visit or move to the city.
  9. Historical significance and heritage
    Cities with a rich history and cultural heritage can draw more tourists and can be more popular among residents who appreciate the city's roots.
  10. Community involvement and friendliness
    Cities where residents feel a strong sense of community and are welcoming to newcomers can become more popular destinations for people looking to relocate.

About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most popular city in Kansas. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or city is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

  • 2511 views
  • 211 votes
  • 10 ranked items

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each city once every 24 hours. The rank of each city is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

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More information on most popular city in kansas

Kansas is a state steeped in history and natural beauty, with a diverse population that boasts a rich cultural heritage. From the towering Flint Hills to the wide expanses of the prairie, Kansas is a state that offers something for everyone. But when it comes to the most popular city in Kansas, there can be only one winner. With thousands of polls and rankings on our platform, StrawPoll has the data to determine which city in Kansas reigns supreme. So, what is the most popular city in Kansas? Read on to find out!

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