The origin of the “City of Fountains” dates back to the early 1800s, when French fur traders arrived by the Missouri River and built cabins along the waterway. Today, the 128.3 square-mile city sits on the eastern edge of Kansas, on the border with Missouri. Its median age is 33.5 (2022), and main industries include transportation and distribution, e-commerce, manufacturing, animal health, technology, and finance.

Overland Park, Kansas, appeals to residents because it’s only a 13-mile commute to Kansas City, and it’s home to an eclectic mix of neighborhoods — there’s something for everyone. Developed in 1905 and now spanning 75.6 square miles, Overland Park’s median age is 37.9 (2022). Most people work in retail, healthcare, and professional, scientific and technical services.

Nestled among the prairie land on the Kansas River is the capital of Kansas: Topeka. Founded in 1854 in the eastern part of the state, the city today covers 61.4 square miles. Its median age is 38.1 (2022), and its economy is based on agriculture, manufacturing, and government services.

Lying on the Arkansas River in south-central Kansas is the 166.5 square-mile city of Wichita. Founded in 1864, it came to be known as the “Air Capital of the World” — the city is home to Airbus, Boeing, Bombardier, Cessna, and Raytheon. Aircraft manufacturing remains a large industry. Other segments include electronics, high tech, healthcare, and consumer goods. Its median age is 35.3 (2022).