Nestled quietly in Kansas, Neodesha is a small town with a rich historical backdrop. Boasting a population of merely 2,100, this quaint locale lies about 100 miles from larger cities such as Wichita and Topeka in Kansas and Tulsa, Oklahoma. It is perhaps best known for the 65-foot-tall tower that served as the drilling framework for the first commercial oil well west of the Mississippi River. However, despite its historical significance, Neodesha is emblematic of the challenges faced by many small towns across America, grappling with declining populations and dwindling economic activity—a narrative that has become increasingly familiar in the rust belt and beyond.
The town once thrived in the oil boom, but the closure of its Standard Oil refinery in 1971 had a profound impact, severing the economic lifeline and halving the population almost overnight. Mayor Devin Johnson has observed the long-term ramifications of such shifts, noting that small communities universally experience a struggle when they stop growing. “If you are not growing, you are dying,” he states, highlighting the urgency for revitalization efforts in places like Neodesha.
In a bold bid for rebirth, Neodesha partnered with MakeMyMove, an online relocation marketplace designed to bridge workers with communities seeking new residents. This partnership has introduced a variety of financial incentives aimed at attracting people to the town. Qualifying newcomers can benefit from income tax waivers that extend through 2026, property tax rebates, and assistance with childcare costs for working families. Moreover, they can take advantage of innovative programs such as the Neodesha Promise, which offers student loan repayment assistance up to $15,000 and free college tuition for local high school graduates eager to pursue higher education.
Since the initiative’s launch in 2024, the outcomes have been promising. According to Evan Hock, co-founder and COO of MakeMyMove, over 30 prospective residents are already in the moving process. Moreover, the town has conferred more than $1 million in scholarships, underlining the community’s commitment to nurturing its youth and adapting to modern economic challenges.
Beyond financial incentives, Neodesha is actively engaging in extensive community development. Plans are underway to construct a plethora of new homes, apartments, and commercial venues, alongside the renovation of historic buildings on Main Street. Mayor Johnson asserts the importance of cherishing the town’s heritage while embracing modernization. “We’ve got to cherish what we’ve got but make sure we make Neodesha an attractive place for people to come,” reflects Johnson. This dual approach aims to both preserve the town’s essence while accommodating new lifestyles and families.
Furthermore, other regions are observing Neodesha’s initiative with keen interest, as communities nationwide experiment with similar cash incentives and relocation programs. For instance, Topeka is offering up to $10,000 for rent or $15,000 toward home purchases. Meanwhile, West Virginia is promoting a $12,000 cash incentive for new residents committed to living in the state for at least two years. These incentives reflect a broader trend emerging in smaller towns, as they confront the realities of modern migration patterns.
Despite the financial allure, Hock emphasizes that monetary incentives alone do not guarantee successful relocations. The essence of community life—affordability, connection, and quality of place—plays a critical role in attracting newcomers. “They want to feel part of a community; they want to connect,” he notes, citing that an emotional and social aspect often outweighs financial considerations.
The story of Kaitlyn Sundberg and her husband Jack embodies this factor perfectly. Originally from Southern California, the couple found themselves in a mounting struggle to secure a home. Their decision to relocate to Neodesha was spurred not just by financial factors, but by the warmth and friendliness of the town that they encountered during their visit. The picturesque streets filled with children riding bikes created a nostalgic backdrop that appealed deeply to their desire for family-friendly living.
After their move, Sundberg found work as the executive director of the new early learning center in town—a direct reflection of community engagement and the opportunity for professional growth that Neodesha presents.
Neodesha’s efforts exemplify how small towns can harness innovation and community spirit to combat the challenges of population decline. By implementing strategic partnerships, financial incentives, and a focus on community development, Neodesha is not merely surviving; it’s thriving. The town stands as a testament to resilience and adaptability, urging others to consider similar strategies to rejuvenate their own communities in this era of transformation. In a world where migration trends are shifting toward more affordable and livable destinations, Neodesha may well offer a blueprint for the future of small-town America.