Nestled in southeast Kansas, Neodesha is a quaint town that once thrived in the oil boom of the early 20th century. With only around 2,100 residents, its most notable landmark is a towering structure that once supported the drilling framework for the first commercial oil well west of the Mississippi River. However, the glory days are long gone; the closure of the refinery previously operated by Standard Oil Co. in 1971 resulted in an immediate population decline that halved the community overnight. Over the last half-century, like many small towns across America, Neodesha has grappled with a relentless downward trend that has left it struggling to maintain its relevance in an ever-changing economic landscape.
The words of Neodesha’s mayor, Devin Johnson, resonate with the fate of many similar communities: “If you are not growing, you are dying.” This stark reality is a challenge that Neodesha must confront head-on to ensure its survival for future generations.
In an effort to reverse the tides of decline, Neodesha has taken a proactive approach by engaging with MakeMyMove, an online platform dedicated to connecting potential new residents with communities actively seeking growth. This initiative allows Neodesha to offer enticing incentives designed to attract new families and individuals to the area. Qualifying newcomers can benefit from waived state income taxes through 2026, property tax rebates, and childcare assistance for working parents. These efforts are in addition to existing programs like student loan repayment assistance and the Neodesha Promise scholarship, which offers substantial financial support for local high school graduates pursuing higher education.
Since the inception of this program in 2024, there have been promising developments, with over 30 prospective new residents expressing interest in moving to Neodesha. This movement is backed by the financial support provided to the community through scholarships and educational incentives, proclaimed by Ben Cutler, a local benefactor dedicated to fostering growth within Neodesha. The scholarships serve as a reassurance that investing in this small town, despite its past struggles, can yield tangible benefits for both the community and its new inhabitants.
As Neodesha looks forward to revitalization, a key focus remains on enhancing the physical infrastructure of the town. Plans for constructing new homes, apartments, and commercial spaces reflect a commitment to not only attract newcomers but also to create an inviting living environment. Mayor Johnson emphasizes the importance of preserving the town’s history while simultaneously making Neodesha an appealing destination for families and individuals alike.
Local initiatives are also underway to renovate historic buildings and improve the aesthetic appeal of the Main Street area. These efforts highlight a blend of honoring the past while embracing the future, showcasing Neodesha as a place that values both its roots and its growth.
Neodesha’s relocation strategy mirrors similar initiatives observed across the United States. Communities are increasingly adopting cash-based incentives to entice new residents. For instance, Topeka, Kansas, offers up to $15,000 for home buyers, while initiatives in West Virginia provide cash incentives coupled with coworking space access and outdoor adventure packages. Such programs reflect a national trend where smaller towns and regions are recognizing the potential of attracting remote workers and families fleeing the high costs of living in major urban areas.
Economic development experts like Evan Hock from MakeMyMove argue that while incentives are helpful, the true motivator for relocation lies in the quality of life offered by a community. The desire for family-friendly environments, affordability, and a sense of belonging drive these decisions more than financial considerations alone.
The story of Kaitlyn Sundberg exemplifies the powerful impact of community initiatives. Moving from the high costs of Southern California, Sundberg and her husband found Neodesha while searching for a friendlier and more affordable living situation. The moment they set foot in Neodesha, Sundberg was moved by the familial atmosphere, evidenced by children playing in the streets. This sense of community culminated in them settling down and pursuing fulfilling employment opportunities, furthering the narrative of Neodesha’s revival.
Through these efforts, Neodesha serves as a microcosm of a larger movement among small towns in America looking to secure their futures. By blending the past with innovation, Neodesha is working to become more than just a footnote in history—a goal that looks increasingly attainable as the town attracts fresh faces, rekindles its community spirit, and redefines its legacy for years to come.
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