Mankato, Kansas: A Hidden Gem with Heart

Situated in the charming heartland of Jewell County, Mankato, Kansas, offers a blend of small-town warmth and community spirit that is as refreshing as it is inviting. With its friendly atmosphere and sincere hospitality, residents and visitors alike experience a deep sense of belonging as soon as they arrive.

Vibrant Main Street is the pride of Mankato, where local businesses buzz with activity and family-owned shops welcome you. The town’s history breathes through its preserved architecture, providing a scenic backdrop for leisurely strolls and neighborly conversations. Meanwhile, Mankato’s strong commitment to education and enrichment shines through in its excellent schools and library, fostering a bright future for all who call it home.

Nature lovers will delight in Mankato’s array of outdoor activities. Proximity to the scenic Solomon Valley provides endless opportunities for hiking, camping, and fishing. Parklands dotted within and around Mankato offer serene spaces for relaxation and community gatherings, where sports, picnics, and festivals frequently fill the air with life and laughter.

In Mankato, there's a unique blend of tranquility and community engagement. From the lively local events to the welcoming smiles greeting you at every corner, life in Mankato is a heartfelt embrace, making it an extraordinary place to live, grow, and thrive.

Workforce & Industrial Development

Located in north-central Kansas, Mankato serves as a strategic location for businesses seeking access to regional and national markets. The city benefits from its position near US Highway 36 and Kansas Highway 14, offering efficient east-west and north-south transportation routes for freight and logistics operations. Mankato’s proximity to major agricultural production areas also supports agribusiness, food processing, and light manufacturing sectors.

Industrial real estate in Mankato is supported by available sites within the city and Jewell County, with local leaders focused on attracting new investment and supporting business retention. The Jewell County Community Development Association works closely with property owners and prospective tenants to facilitate site selection and project planning.

Workforce development is a priority, with Kansas WorkforceONE providing tailored training and recruitment services for area employers. The state’s workforce programs—including Kansas Industrial Training (KIT) and Kansas Industrial Retraining (KIR)—help companies upskill new and existing employees to meet evolving industry needs.

Incentives for industrial projects are available through both state and local channels. Kansas Department of Commerce offers programs such as Promoting Employment Across Kansas (PEAK) and High Performance Incentive Program (HPIP), while Jewell County may provide property tax abatements and infrastructure support to qualifying projects.