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 2026 the population of Independence is 8,248. The population is expected to shrink to 7,981 by 2031 - a growth rate of -0.66%.
The median age of Independence residents is 41.
The diversity index of Independence is 47.5, 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 $69,366 and projected to be $75,930 in 2031. Per capita income is $29,886, projected to be $33,156 in 2031. 1.62% of households – 134 – have an income of $200,000 or higher. Average net worth is $759,531 and the average disposable income is $55,453.
There are 4,300 housing units in Independence; 2,279 are owner-occupied, 1,251 are rented, and 770 are vacant. The average home value is $132,824, with 77 homes built in 2010 or later, and 1,730 built in 1939 or earlier.
There are 618 businesses in Independence, employing 5,874 workers and pulling from a labor force of 3,718 age 16 and above. 441 workers commute into Independence from outside the county or state. Key industries for the area include:
3,135 residents both live and work in/around Independence. The average travel time is 0.0 minutes. 8.71% people have a commute of less than 5 minutes while 3.38% commute 90 minutes or more each way. Of commuters, 2,985 drive alone, 449 carpool, and 0 take public transportation. 125 use other modes of transport such as motorcycle, bicycle, walking, etc. 159 residents work from home.
1,814 members of the workforce hold a high school diploma or GED. 874 have associates degrees, 912 have bachelor’s degrees, and 633 hold a graduate or professional degree.
Source: ESRI, 2026-08-31
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
317 N. Pennsylvania Avenue • Independence, KS 67301
This is an available building in downtown Independence . Learn More
5184 Industrial Street • Coffeyville, KS 67337
This facility benefits from being located in a dense Industrial Park. Learn More
