Why Allen County
Manufacturing Strength. Small Town Advantage.
Allen County combines a strong manufacturing foundation with the workforce, location and local support businesses need to grow. Here, companies find room to expand, direct access to decision-makers and partners ready to help move projects forward.
Manufacturing Runs Deep
Manufacturing is a cornerstone of Allen County’s economy, supported by an established industrial base and a workforce with generations of experience making things here. With a manufacturing location quotient of 3.12, Allen County’s concentration of manufacturing employment is more than three times the national average. From global brands to specialized manufacturers, companies here benefit from an established manufacturing ecosystem and a workforce with experience in production and skilled trades.
Home to Leading Manufacturers
A Regional Workforce
Allen County’s workforce extends well beyond the county line. Approximately 97,400 people live within a 60-mile radius, expanding the potential labor pool available to area employers. Within Allen County, workforce participation stands at 64%, while 94% of residents have a high school diploma and 22% hold a bachelor’s degree. Local and regional education and workforce partners help employers develop the skills they need today while building a pipeline for tomorrow.
Connected to Major Markets
Allen County’s location in southeast Kansas puts businesses within easy reach of major markets across the region. U.S. Highways 54, 59 and 169 provide connections to Kansas City, Wichita, Tulsa and Joplin, with all four markets approximately two hours or less from the county.
The county is also served by Allen County Airport, which features an approximately 5,500-foot runway and supports roughly 17,000 flights annually and serves as a key asset for business travel and corporate access.
Room to Grow
Allen County offers businesses room to locate, expand and invest, with more than 150 acres of shovel-ready land across two industrial park sites as well as available buildings and other development opportunities throughout the county.
ACED can help businesses identify properties that fit their needs and connect them with the local partners and resources needed to move a project forward.
Competitive Costs
Allen County’s affordability is an advantage for both businesses and the people they employ. Housing costs are significantly lower than in larger markets, helping employees stretch their earnings further and making it easier to put down roots in the community. Affordable housing is one part of Allen County’s broader small-town advantage, helping employers attract and retain workers while offering employees more room in their household budgets.
A Place to Build a Business — and a Life
Allen County offers more than a strong environment for business. Short commutes, accessible healthcare and education, outdoor recreation and distinct small-town communities make it a place where employees and their families can build a life, too.
From Iola’s arts, education and healthcare amenities to Humboldt’s nationally recognized revitalization and Lehigh Portland State Park, Allen County offers plenty to discover beyond the workday.
Let’s Talk About Your Project
Every project starts with a conversation. Whether you’re evaluating Allen County for a new location, considering an expansion or looking for resources to support your business, ACED can connect you with the sites, workforce, incentives and local partners you need.
Camille Lavon
ACED Executive Director
