Nestled in southeastern Kansas, Neodesha is a small town grappling with the repercussions of its historical identity as an oil-producing hub. With a meager population of around 2,100, the town is approximately 100 miles away from larger cities like Wichita and Topeka in Kansas, as well as Tulsa, Oklahoma. The pivotal event in its history is the establishment of the first commercial oil well west of the Mississippi River, marked by a towering 65-foot structure that has become a symbol of its past. However, in stark contrast to its once-thriving economy, Neodesha has been contending with a significant decline in its population since the closure of its Standard Oil refinery in 1971, which effectively halved the town’s residents almost overnight.
As Mayor Devin Johnson poignantly stated, Neodesha’s struggles are representative of many small towns across the United States: “If you are not growing, you are dying.” With an aging housing supply and diminished job opportunities, the town faces the existential threat of dwindling resources and vitality. Over the past fifty years, the momentum towards decay and disappointment has been palpable, leading the community to seek transformative measures to reclaim its former vibrance.
Confronted by the urgent need for revitalization, Neodesha has recently partnered with MakeMyMove, a relocation marketplace that specializes in connecting aspiring movers with communities looking to enhance their population. This strategic collaboration aims to attract new residents by offering a package of enticing incentives designed to ease the burdens associated with relocation. For prospective residents, the town is waiving state income tax through 2026, providing rebates on property taxes, and offering childcare support to help working parents.
Additionally, the community has a laudable commitment through its “Neodesha Promise” scholarship program, which contributes up to $15,000 toward student loan repayment and promises free college tuition for graduates of Neodesha High School attending participating colleges. Spanning across vocational schools and associate degree programs nationwide, the scholarship initiative significantly enhances the town’s appeal, particularly for young families looking to secure a solid future.
Since the launch of this program in early 2024, roughly 30 individuals have begun the moving process, revealing an increasing interest from those looking for a fresh start in a small-town environment. As co-founder of MakeMyMove, Evan Hock notes, such community programs are vital in sparking revitalization, especially in the face of broader trends depicting urban migration toward more affordable and livable environments.
Efforts to rejuvenate Neodesha extend beyond mere financial incentives. The town is actively pursuing plans to construct hundreds of new homes, apartments, and duplexes to counteract the dilapidation of its current housing market. There are also plans to develop retail and commercial spaces, invigorating local commerce and creating an attractive landscape for both new and existing residents.
Mayor Johnson emphasizes the dual approach of cherishing Neodesha’s historical roots while simultaneously broadening its appeal. “We’ve got to cherish what we’ve got but make sure we make Neodesha an attractive place for people to come,” he asserts. This mindset serves as both a call to action and a reminder that historical significance must coexist with modern ambition.
Neodesha’s revitalization strategies are resonant in the broader context of other U.S. communities. Similar towns are enhancing their outreach to potential newcomers, with cities like Topeka offering cash incentives for renters and homebuyers. These strategies highlight a collaborative effort across the nation, as municipalities aim to combat common issues associated with rural depopulation.
For individuals like Kaitlyn Sundberg, the decision to relocate to Neodesha was a poignant turning point. Having lived in Southern California under financial constraints and unmet dreams of homeownership, Sundberg and her husband found themselves searching for opportunities beyond the crowded urban expanse. Their eventual move to Neodesha was not just a change of scenery; it was an embrace of community values. With ample outdoor space and friendly neighborhoods, the couple found solace and family-friendly amenities that were missing in their previous lives.
Sundberg’s story underscores the importance of not only affordability but also the intangible sense of belonging that small towns can offer. As she embarked on her new career as the executive director of a local early learning center, the sense of community and family-oriented living enriched her transition, highlighting the potential for small towns to thrive despite economic challenges.
Neodesha’s revitalization saga encapsulates the challenges and opportunities faced by many rural towns across America. The innovative strategies being employed—from attracting newcomers with financial incentives to revitalizing local housing and infrastructure—illustrate a multifaceted approach aimed at carving a bright future for Neodesha. As communities evolve, their commitment to tradition blended with a vision for growth will be crucial in nurturing the next generation and ensuring a sustainable legacy.