Independence 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
As of 2025 the population of Independence is 8,265. The population is expected to shrink to 7,936 by 2030 - a growth rate of -0.81%.
The median age of Independence residents is 40.
The diversity index of Independence is 47.6, meaning that there is a 48% chance that any two people selected out of 100 residents will be of different race or ethnicity from one another.
The average household income in Independence is $64,579 and projected to be $68,863 in 2030. Per capita income is $27,817, projected to be $30,256 in 2030. 0.88% of households – 73 – have an income of $200,000 or higher. Average net worth is $430,943 and the average disposable income is $50,847.
There are 4,324 housing units in Independence; 2,228 are owner-occupied, 1,327 are rented, and 769 are vacant. The average home value is $127,638, with 80 homes built in 2010 or later, and 1,741 built in 1939 or earlier.
There are 600 businesses in Independence, employing 5,803 workers and pulling from a labor force of 3,916 age 16 and above. 433 workers commute into Independence from outside the county or state. Key industries for the area include:
3,352 residents both live and work in/around Independence. The average travel time is 0.0 minutes. 6.62% people have a commute of less than 5 minutes while 2.33% commute 90 minutes or more each way. Of commuters, 3,188 drive alone, 428 carpool, and 0 take public transportation. 167 use other modes of transport such as motorcycle, bicycle, walking, etc. 133 residents work from home.
1,736 members of the workforce hold a high school diploma or GED. 1,044 have associates degrees, 845 have bachelor’s degrees, and 495 hold a graduate or professional degree.
Looking to relocate or start your business in the Midwest? Businesses big and small can find the ideal location to site and grow their businesses in Montgomery County, Kansas.
200 N. Galveston • Cherryvale, KS 67335
Suited for several types of use, warehouse, manufacturing, storage or start up business. Learn More
809 N. Liberty Street • Cherryvale, KS 67335
The property type is designated as industrial. Learn More
3111 Cessna Blvd • Independence, KS 67301
The Airport Industrial Park-South has 163 acres available. Learn More
