Nestled within the heart of Kansas, Neodesha is a town faced with the challenges that many small American communities encounter today. With a population hovering around 2,100, this quaint location is approximately 100 miles from major cities like Wichita and Topeka, Kansas, as well as Tulsa, Oklahoma. Once celebrated for its iconic 65-foot oil drilling tower, marking the site of the first commercial oil well west of the Mississippi River, Neodesha has witnessed a dramatic decline since its heyday. The closure of its Standard Oil refinery in 1971 resulted in an immediate population drop, a loss that has haunted the community for decades.
The Steep Hill of Decline
The tale of Neodesha reflects a broader narrative applicable to numerous small towns across the United States. “If you are not growing, you are dying,” says Neodesha’s mayor, Devin Johnson, encapsulating the predicament that has led to its stagnant housing market and diminishing population. The town’s struggle is not simply quantitative; it is deeply qualitative, affecting community spirit and the economic viability of the region. As families move to seek better prospects elsewhere, the social fabric of Neodesha undergoes a significant unraveling.
In an effort to combat this decline, Neodesha has embarked on an ambitious partnership with MakeMyMove, an online platform designed to connect individuals seeking relocation with communities desperate to boost their populations. The initiative is multifaceted, offering enticing incentives tailored to meet the needs of modern families. New residents may benefit from waivers of state income tax through 2026, property tax rebates, and even assistance with childcare costs, making Neodesha more financially appealing. Additionally, the Neodesha Promise scholarship program offers graduates tuition aid, creating pathways for youth in the community to achieve higher education without the burden of debilitating loans.
Since the program’s commencement in 2024, the positive effects are already manifesting; over 30 prospective residents are in the process of relocating to the area. This revitalization effort demonstrates how thoughtful initiative can breathe new life into aging communities. As Evan Hock, MakeMyMove’s chief operating officer notes, the influx of newcomers presents a chance for genuine progress, showcasing the power of connectedness in fostering community development.
While financial incentives play a significant role in attracting residents to Neodesha, underlying community values remain a crucial factor. Hock emphasizes that affordability is essential, yet the human connection within a community often outweighs monetary motivations. People seeking to relocate are in search of environments where they feel a sense of belonging and community support—elements that Neodesha is striving to cultivate.
Efforts are already underway on multiple fronts to further enhance the town’s appeal. An ongoing development project aims to construct hundreds of new residential units, from homes to apartments, while also revitalizing historic buildings along Main Street. These initiatives emphasize the importance of cherishing Neodesha’s existing charm while adapting to the needs of modern families.
Similar Trends Across the Nation
Neodesha is not alone in its quest for resurgence; across the U.S., other towns are rolling out similar incentive programs to attract new residents. Distinctive financial offerings in places like Topeka, Kansas—where new residents could receive substantial rent and home-buying assistance—illustrate a growing trend among towns aiming to mitigate the population outflow. Destinations such as West Virginia and Shoals, Alabama are also promoting cash incentives and other perks to lure individuals willing to build their lives in less urbanized areas.
This trend is not merely a localized phenomenon. Recent studies, like the United Van Lines reports, indicate a shift as residents from high-cost urban areas migrate toward Southern and Midwestern locations. Many are in search of more affordable living conditions, greater quality of life, and a chance to thrive in growing communities.
One inspiring example of this transformative movement comes from Kaitlyn Sundberg, who relocated from Southern California with her family in search of a more affordable and community-focused lifestyle. Initially living with in-laws, Sundberg was drawn to Neodesha’s family-friendly atmosphere during a house-hunting trip. The experience of witnessing children playing outside solidified her decision to make the move. Sundberg now plays an essential role in the community’s future; she serves as the executive director of a new early learning center, emphasizing her commitment to shaping a meaningful future for Neodesha.
The efforts underway in Neodesha offer a glimmer of hope not just for the town itself, but for small communities everywhere grappling with similar issues. By fostering a mix of community, affordability, and innovative incentives, Neodesha is carving a renewed path that resonates with a wider audience. As more people recognize the value of connection and opportunity in smaller towns, Neodesha could very well emerge as a shining example of successful revitalization. The heart of this community beats on, adapting and evolving to embrace the future while cherishing its rich heritage.