Independence Profile

Independence

independenceIndependence has a strong industrial base, with targeted industries of Aerospace and Sheet Metal Fabrication.  With companies like Cessna Aviation, Kansas Aviation, Aviation Controls, VT Hackney, Matcor, and several other nationally known companies, its no wonder that business is growing in Independence. 

The unique charm of Independence makes it stand out among communities across America.  Home of the Little House on the Prairie (Laura Ingalls Wilder's childhood home), the Ralph Mitchell Park and Zoo,  and is home to one of Kansas' largest celebrations , Neewollah (Halloween spelled backwards).  You will find that the small town atmosphere of this Norman Rockwell esque community is truly a great place to call home for your family and business.

Independence has two main industrial parks with available acreage for your business.  The Airport Industrial Park is located southwest of the City and is currently home to various businesses including Cessna Aircraft and Kansas Aviation.  The West Laurel Industrial Park is located on the west side of the city with all infrastructure in place, so that your project is shovel ready.

If you are exploring the idea of starting or expanding a business, no matter how small or large, in the Independence area, click here to provide some brief information so that we may assist you: New or Expanding Business Inquiry Form

8,328
Population
39.9
Median Age
47
Diversity Index

Population Demographics

As of 2024 the population of Independence is 8,328. The population is expected to shrink to 8,017 by 2029 - a growth rate of -0.76%.

The median age of Independence residents is 40.

The diversity index of Independence is 47.1, meaning that there is a 47% chance that any two people selected out of 100 residents will be of different race or ethnicity from one another.

$63,714
Average Household Income
$52,226
Average Disposable Income
4,299
Housing Units
$124,012
Average Home Value

Housing and Income

The average household income in Independence is $63,714 and projected to be $72,126 in 2029. Per capita income is $27,113, projected to be $31,493 in 2029. 0.85% of households – 71 – have an income of $200,000 or higher. Average net worth is $479,859 and the average disposable income is $52,226.

There are 4,299 housing units in Independence; 2,277 are owner-occupied, 1,263 are rented, and 759 are vacant. The average home value is $124,012, with 82 homes built in 2010 or later, and 1,665 built in 1939 or earlier.

3,424
Workforce
40.00%
Unemployment Rate
47
Veteran Population
1,398
Bachelor's Degree or Higher

Business and Workforce

There are 604 businesses in Independence, employing 5,988 workers and pulling from a labor force of 3,958 age 16 and above. 422 workers commute into Independence from outside the county or state. Key industries for the area include:

3,424 residents both live and work in/around Independence. The average travel time is 14.1 minutes. 9.52% people have a commute of less than 5 minutes while 1.23% commute 90 minutes or more each way. Of commuters, 3,207 drive alone, 465 carpool, and 0 take public transportation. 151 use other modes of transport such as motorcycle, bicycle, walking, etc. 135 residents work from home.

1,933 members of the workforce hold a high school diploma or GED. 789 have associates degrees, 817 have bachelor’s degrees, and 581 hold a graduate or professional degree.