Nestled in southeastern Kansas, the small town of Neodesha might appear unremarkable at first glance, but its historical significance as one of the first oil towns west of the Mississippi River adds a unique layer to its identity. With a population of approximately 2,100, Neodesha stands 100 miles from major cities like Wichita, Topeka, and Tulsa. However, the town’s population has faced a dramatic decline over the years, particularly after the closure of the Standard Oil refinery in 1971, which effectively halved its residents. This ongoing decline mirrors a broader trend seen in many small communities across America, where stagnation often leads to erosion.
Mayor Devin Johnson succinctly captures the existential concern that pervades Neodesha and similar towns: “If you are not growing, you are dying.” Facing the dual challenges of an aging housing infrastructure and a diminishing populace, Neodesha is at a critical juncture in its history.
Recognizing the urgent need for revitalization, Neodesha has recently partnered with MakeMyMove, an innovative online platform designed to connect potential residents with municipalities looking to rejuvenate their communities. Through this partnership, Neodesha is not just appealing to new residents; it is actively incentivizing them to consider making the town their home.
Since launching an initiative in 2024, the town has been offering enticing perks such as waiving state income tax until 2026, property tax rebates, and even assistance with childcare for working parents. The initiative extends its reach to include educational benefits, such as student loan repayment assistance of up to $15,000 and the Neodesha Promise scholarship program, which offers free tuition at participating colleges and vocational schools for graduates in good standing. Fundamental to this approach is the recognition that affordability and quality of life play pivotal roles in attracting newcomers.
Principal figures behind the Neodesha Promise, like Ben Cutler—who grew up in Neodesha—believe these programs represent a tangible investment in the community’s future. Having funded the scholarship initiative from 2020, Cutler emphasizes the importance of fostering a family-friendly environment as a means to retain and attract young families.
In tandem with the incentive program, Neodesha is not resting on its laurels. Plans are in motion to construct hundreds of new homes, apartments, and duplexes, which will help accommodate the influx of new residents. The town is also looking into the development of commercial and retail spaces, alongside the renovation of historic buildings that lend character to Main Street. Mayor Johnson has emphasized the necessity of cherishing existing community assets while simultaneously creating appealing living conditions for newcomers.
Interestingly, Neodesha is not alone in its efforts to attract residents. Other regions across the United States are adopting similar tactics, including cash incentives and relocation benefits. For instance, Topeka has established a program where relocating individuals can receive up to $10,000 in rental support, while Alabama’s Shoals community offers full-time remote workers $10,000 to settle in their area. The effectiveness of these incentive programs is evident; MakeMyMove reports that communities generally see a return on their investment within the first year.
Among those contemplating relocation is Kaitlyn Sundberg, who fled the high cost of living in Southern California for the charm and affordability of Neodesha. Faced with pressure to secure a down payment for a home while living with in-laws, Sundberg’s and her husband’s decision to move was spurred by a job opportunity in Southeast Kansas Inc. Their experience highlights how the draw of a family-friendly atmosphere can sway decisions. Upon visiting, Sundberg remarked on the picturesque scene of children cycling around, ultimately leading to an emotional realization of a community where they could thrive.
This narrative underlines Hock’s insights that while financial incentives may catch the eye, the overall quality of life is what attracts individuals. Dreaming of a life enriched by community connections and fewer financial burdens, Sundberg now contributes to Neodesha as the executive director of a new early learning center—an embodiment of how her move has become a reciprocal relationship where she aids in shaping the community’s future.
Neodesha’s resurgence holds valuable lessons for many small towns navigating similar predicaments of dwindling populations and neglected housing. As it attempts to redefine its identity in an evolving economic landscape, the partnership with MakeMyMove and the commitment to community-building initiatives offer a beacon of hope. The blend of fiscal incentives, an emphasis on educational opportunities, and the cultivation of a welcoming atmosphere can potentially transform Neodesha from a declining town into a vibrant community once again—a testament to resilience and reinvention in America’s heartland.