South Central Kansas Region encompasses 9 counties with total population of 719,731 persons (26% of Kansas population.) The region contains 98 cities, towns and incorporated areas ranging in population from Wichita (pop. 357,698) to Freeport (pop. 7.) Regional population growth from 1997 to 2007 was 29,674 persons (4.3%.) More than 85% of residents age 25 and over are high school graduates, 6% hold associate degrees, 16% hold bachelors degrees, 7% have advanced degrees and another 26% have some college credit. Wichita State University’s Center for Economic Development & Business Research (CEDBR) projects regional population at 787,400 in 2030.

MSA Demographics
Wichita Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) encompasses Sedgwick, Butler, Harvey and Sumner counties, and is the largest metro area in Kansas with 2007 population of 596,452 persons. Metro area population grew by 35,565 persons (6.3%) from 1997 to 2007. It is a relatively young population with 2006 median age of 35.4 years (national median age 36.4 years.) About 86% of metro residents live in an urban setting.

Sedgwick County Demographics
Sedgwick County (pop. 476,026) is the central county of the MSA (80% of MSA population.) In addition to Wichita, Sedgwick County contains 19 smaller cities ranging in population from Derby (pop. 21,101) to Viola (pop. 213.) Sedgwick County’s population has increased by 23,157 persons (5.1%) since 2000. Planning Department county population projection is 567,033 in 2030. Racial and ethnic composition is comparable to that of the nation. The fastest growth is among Asian-Pacific Islanders and persons of Hispanic origin. Hispanic population growth was 109% from 1990 to 2000 compared to 58% nationally. Asian population growth was 77% compared to 46% nationally. Given higher growth rates for minority populations, the area is forecasted to become even more diverse.

Wichita Demographics
Wichita (pop. 357,698) is the largest city in Kansas. A regional center of business, healthcare and entertainment, approximately 1 million people live within 100 miles of Wichita and 714,790 reside within 50 miles. Wichita’s population has increased by 13,414 persons (3.9%) since 2000. Planning Department city population projection is 412,460 in 2030.