Derby
cityDerby, Kansas, is a growing city located in Sedgwick County, serving as the largest southern suburb of Wichita. With a population of approximately 27,048 in 2026, Derby offers a blend of suburban comfort and access to the amenities of a larger metropolitan area. The city has evolved from a small farming community to a thriving residential area with a strong sense of community. Derby's economy is supported by its proximity to Wichita and McConnell Air Force Base, with many residents commuting for work. Key employment sectors include manufacturing, education, healthcare, and retail. The city is focused on expanding its mixed-use developments and transportation connections to support future growth. Derby is known for its family-friendly environment, quality schools, and numerous parks and recreational facilities. The city's commitment to green spaces and community events, such as the Derby BBQ Festival, contributes to its appeal as a desirable place to live. Derby's history as two distinct communities, El Paso and Derby, adds to its unique character.
Derby, Kansas
- Classification
- City
- FIPS Code
- 20-17800
- Country
- United States
- County
- Sedgwick
- Region
- Wichita Metropolitan Area
- Elevation
- 1,293 ft
- Total Area
- 10.34 sq mi
- Land Area
- 10.28 sq mi
- Water Area
- 0.07 sq mi
- Latitude
- 37.5525
- Longitude
- -97.26139
- Climate
- Humid subtropical climate with hot, humid summers and mild to cool winters.
- Notable Features
- Spring Creek
- Neighboring Areas
- Wichita
- Population (2020)
- 25,625
- Est. Population (2026)
- 27,048
- Median Age
- 35.9
- Median Income
- $84,112
- Poverty Rate
- 6%
- Family Households
- 65.5%
- Owner-Occupied
- 68.5%
- Racial & Ethnic Composition
- The racial makeup of Derby includes 80.64% White, 2.06% Black or African American, 1.04% Asian, 0.89% Native American, and 3.27% Other Race. Approximately 12.04% identify as Two or More Races. About 7.68% of the population is Hispanic or Latino.
- Government Type
- Mayor-Council-Manager
- Governing Body
- City Council
- Body Size
- 5 members
- School District
- Derby Public Schools, USD 260
- Municipal Services
- Police · Fire · Public Works · Parks & Recreation · Senior Services · Municipal Court
- Unemployment Rate
- 3.4%
- Economic Profile
- Residential/suburban · Commercial growth
- Employment Sectors
- Manufacturing · Education · Healthcare/Social Assistance · Retail Trade
- Major Employers
- Spirit AeroSystems (Wichita) · Boeing (Wichita) · McConnell Air Force Base
- Schools
- 12
- Students
- 7,284
- Student-Teacher Ratio
- 16:1
- Graduation Rate
- 92%
- School Districts
- Derby Public Schools, USD 260
- Colleges & Universities
- Wichita State University (nearby)
- Transportation
- K-15 Highway · Derby Dash (bus transportation) · Biking and walking paths
- Utilities
- Municipal water · Fiber/broadband
- Major Facilities
- Derby Recreation Center · Hospitals in Wichita
- Outdoor Access
- Yes
- Major Recreation Areas
- High Park · Rock River Rapids Aquatic Park · Garrett Park
- Parks & Trails
- High Park (lake, sports fields, outdoor theater) · 25 miles of hike and bike paths
- Founded
- 1870
- Incorporated
- 1903
- Named After
- C.F. Derby, a railroad official
- Historical Significance
- Evolved from a small agricultural town to a significant suburban community due to its proximity to Wichita's aviation industry and McConnell Air Force Base.
- Key Events
- Town established as El Paso in 1871. · Railroad depot named Derby in 1880. · City incorporated as El Paso in 1903. · Population grew significantly after World War II due to the aviation industry. · Name officially changed to Derby in 1956.






