Job Market Information

Economic Development

From the crossroads of US Highways 169 and 54, Allen County residents enjoy easy access to a number of larger metropolitan areas, including Kansas City, Wichita, Joplin, Missouri, and Tulsa, Oklahoma.
The Allen County Airport is 3 miles southeast of Iola, and airports in Kansas City, Wichita, and Tulsa
are also within easy access.

Abundance of Natural Resources

On the banks of the Neosho River and a 160-acre natural spring-fed lake, the Iola area and Allen County is located in a thriving agricultural area. Native limestone is plentiful, and historically, oil
and natural gas have attracted businesses to the area.

Midwestern Work Ethic

Fifteen local manufacturing plants provide employment for 1600 families in Iola alone,
and the hourly manufacturing wage ranges from $7.22 to $10.97. The cities of Allen County,
the county, educational institutions, and other local government agencies employ 1500 family members.

Coordination of Public and Private Support

Cooperation among local government, industry, and community groups enhance the quality
of life for the citizens who work and make their homes in Allen County. Private and
public entities emphasize partnership in solving problems that affect citizens.
The public and private sector work together to maintain Allen County as a livable
community. Iola, KS, located in Allen County also has the lowest
utility rate in Kansas.

For further information, visit Thrive Allen County