Nestled in Kansas, Neodesha is a small town with a significant historical footprint. With a population hovering around 2,100, it serves as a reminder of America’s transformative oil boom, particularly evident in its emblematic 65-foot oil tower—the last remnant of the first commercial oil well west of the Mississippi River. However, as the town’s glory days faded with the closure of the local Standard Oil refinery in 1971, Neodesha faced a rapid population decline that halved its inhabitants nearly overnight. This stark transition encapsulates a broader trend affecting many small American communities: without growth, towns risk fading into obscurity.
Neodesha Mayor Devin Johnson captures this sentiment poignantly, expressing the urgency that small cities must confront: “If you are not growing, you are dying.” This axiom is particularly relevant as towns like Neodesha assess their viability amid a changing economic landscape.
In a bid to reverse its downward trajectory, Neodesha has recently ventured into a collaborative partnership with MakeMyMove, a progressive online relocation marketplace. This initiative is designed to bridge the gap between potential residents and communities eager to revitalize their populations. As part of this partnership, Neodesha has implemented a range of enticing incentives to attract new residents. Prospective movers can benefit from waiving state income tax until 2026, along with property tax rebates, childcare aid for working parents, and access to educational opportunities, including a scholarship program that covers up to $15,000 in student loans.
Evan Hock, the co-founder of MakeMyMove, emphasizes the success of this initiative, noting that over 30 individuals are currently contemplating a new life in Neodesha. The scholarship program, which Ben Cutler has championed, aims to support local high school graduates by alleviating the financial burdens of further education. These concerted efforts reflect a strategic focus on not just attracting newcomers, but also nurturing homegrown talent.
To accommodate the expected influx of new residents, Neodesha is undergoing significant infrastructural changes. Plans to construct new homes, apartments, and commercial spaces are becoming integral to the revitalization efforts. Mayor Johnson notes the importance of balancing appreciation for the town’s history with a commitment to modernization, stating, “We’ve got to cherish what we’ve got but also ensure we make Neodesha an attractive place for people to come.”
Similar initiatives are surfacing across America, where communities are offering attractive relocation packages. Examples include Topeka’s rent incentives of up to $10,000 and initiatives in West Virginia and Alabama, which provide direct financial incentives for remote workers willing to relocate. These competitive offerings underscore the urgency for towns like Neodesha to innovate and adapt in order to retain and attract residents.
In recent years, there’s been a noticeable shift in migration patterns, with many Americans leaving high-cost urban areas in favor of more affordable, spacious living environments. Data from United Van Lines highlights this growing trend, showcasing a migration away from metropolitan hubs like New York City and Los Angeles to less populated regions that promise lower living expenses and enhanced quality of life. The current socio-economic climate has sparked interest in regions where affordability meets availability.
The stories of individuals like Kaitlyn Sundberg illuminate the personal impact of these trends. Undoubtedly, individuals and families are searching for spaces that offer not just financial relief but emotional and community fulfillment. Sundberg’s journey from Southern California to Neodesha epitomizes this quest; after struggling to find housing in their former locale, the couple’s search led them to Neodesha, where they found a welcoming community and job opportunities—transformation born out of necessity.
Neodesha’s story is emblematic of resilience, highlighting the capacity of small towns to innovate in the face of decline. The combination of strategic partnerships, community investment, and an understanding of migration trends embodies a forward-thinking approach that other towns might adopt. As these efforts unfold, it becomes increasingly clear that the aspiration for growth is intertwined with a commitment to fostering connections and enhancing the quality of life for all residents—both old and new.
Ultimately, Neodesha has the potential to transform its narrative from one of decline to a thriving community that balances its rich history with a promising future. These revitalization strategies not only exemplify adaptability but also lay the groundwork for sustainable growth, setting a precedent for other towns grappling with similar challenges.