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Trying the top The Largest Cities In Kansas cities on US State Largest Cities – Choose State & Number? Here are the top 10 to get you started.
1. Wichita, KS (Population: 396,119)
Wichita, the largest city in Kansas, is often called the “Air Capital of the World” due to its long history in aircraft manufacturing. Companies like Cessna, Beechcraft, and Learjet all trace their roots here. Wichita also has a growing cultural and culinary scene, with attractions such as the Sedgwick County Zoo, Exploration Place science museum, and Old Town district. The Arkansas River flows through the city, adding to its scenic appeal.
Interesting Fact:
Wichita’s Keeper of the Plains statue, standing at the confluence of two rivers, is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks.
2. Overland Park, KS (Population: 197,089)
Overland Park, located in the Kansas City metropolitan area, is known for its excellent schools, thriving economy, and high quality of life. It consistently ranks as one of the best places to live in the U.S. Overland Park Arboretum and Botanical Gardens, Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead, and a vibrant downtown contribute to its family-friendly atmosphere.
Interesting Fact:
Overland Park is home to the Overland Park Convention Center, a major venue for business and cultural events.
3. Kansas City, KS (Population: 152,933)
Kansas City, Kansas—often referred to as KCK—is part of the larger Kansas City metro area that extends across the Missouri border. The city has a rich cultural heritage and is home to attractions such as the Kansas Speedway, Legends Outlets, and sporting venues. Its location at the confluence of rivers and highways makes it a transportation hub.
Interesting Fact:
Kansas City, KS, is home to the Kansas Speedway, which hosts NASCAR and other major racing events.
4. Olathe, KS (Population: 147,461)
Olathe, located southwest of Kansas City, is one of the fastest-growing cities in the state. Known for its suburban charm, good schools, and strong community spirit, Olathe is both a residential hub and business center. Its history includes a stop on the Oregon and Santa Fe Trails.
Interesting Fact:
Olathe’s name comes from a Shawnee word meaning “beautiful.”
5. Topeka, KS (Population: 125,475)
Topeka, the capital of Kansas, is steeped in history and government significance. It played a central role in the civil rights movement, as the site of the landmark *Brown v. Board of Education* case. Today, Topeka is a blend of cultural attractions, government institutions, and family-friendly amenities.
Interesting Fact:
The Brown v. Board of Education National Historic Site in Topeka commemorates the Supreme Court case that ended school segregation.
6. Lawrence, KS (Population: 96,207)
Lawrence, home to the University of Kansas, is known for its vibrant arts scene, historic downtown, and lively college-town atmosphere. Massachusetts Street features shops, restaurants, and cultural venues, making it a hub of activity. The city is also historically significant as a center of Free State resistance before the Civil War.
Interesting Fact:
The University of Kansas Jayhawks basketball team is one of the most storied programs in NCAA history.
7. Shawnee, KS (Population: 69,417)
Shawnee, located in Johnson County, blends suburban living with access to the Kansas City metro. The city offers strong schools, numerous parks, and a family-oriented environment. Shawnee Mission Park, one of the largest parks in the area, provides hiking, biking, and lake recreation.
Interesting Fact:
Shawnee was once a center for Native American relocation in the early 19th century, particularly for the Shawnee tribe.
8. Lenexa, KS (Population: 58,536)
Lenexa, another rapidly growing city in Johnson County, is known as the “City of Festivals” for its many community events. With a strong economy, modern development, and family-friendly atmosphere, Lenexa has become one of Kansas’s most desirable places to live.
Interesting Fact:
Lenexa hosts an annual Spinach Festival, celebrating the crop that once earned it the title “Spinach Capital of the World.”
9. Manhattan, KS (Population: 53,682)
Manhattan, nicknamed “The Little Apple,” is home to Kansas State University and offers a mix of college-town energy and scenic beauty. Located near the Flint Hills, Manhattan has opportunities for outdoor recreation and cultural enrichment. Aggieville, its historic entertainment district, is a popular spot for students and visitors alike.
Interesting Fact:
Manhattan is the gateway to the Konza Prairie, one of the largest remaining tallgrass prairies in North America.
10. Salina, KS (Population: 45,792)
Salina, located in central Kansas, has long served as a cultural and commercial hub for the region. The city is home to the Stiefel Theatre for the Performing Arts, the Smoky Hill Museum, and annual arts festivals. Agriculture and industry remain central to its economy, while community events bring residents together.
Interesting Fact:
Salina hosts the Smoky Hill River Festival, one of the largest multi-day arts festivals in Kansas.
