South Central Kansas Region encompasses 9 counties with total 2010 population of 750,435 persons (28% of Kansas population.) The region contains 98 cities, towns and incorporated areas ranging in population from Wichita (pop. 382,368) to Freeport (pop. 5.) Regional population growth from 2000 to 2010 was 49,618 persons (7.1%.) More than 88% of residents age 25 and over are high school graduates, 7% hold associate degrees, 17% hold bachelors degrees, 8% have advanced degrees and another 25% 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 2010 population of 623,061 persons. Metro area population grew by 51,895 persons (9.1%) from 2000 to 2010. It is a relatively young population with 2010 median age of 35.0 years (national median age 37.2 years.) About 86% of metro residents live in an urban setting.

Sedgwick County Demographics
Sedgwick County (pop. 498,365) 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. 22,158) to Viola (pop. 130.) Sedgwick County’s population has increased by 45,496 persons (10.0%) since 2000. The Planning Department's county population projection is 582,000 in 2035. Racial and ethnic composition is comparable to that of the nation. The fastest growth is among Asians and persons of Hispanic origin. Hispanic population growth was 78% from 2000 to 2010 compared to 43% nationally. Asian population growth was 35% compared to 43% nationally. Given higher growth rates for minority populations, the area is forecasted to become even more diverse.

Wichita Demographics
Wichita (pop. 382,368) is the largest city in Kansas. A regional center of business, healthcare and entertainment, more than 1 million people live within 100 miles of Wichita and 733,620 reside within 50 miles. Wichita’s population has increased by 38,084 persons (11.1%) since 2000. The Planning Department's city population projection is 429,380 in 2035.