McPherson
cityMcPherson, Kansas, is a city located in McPherson County, serving as its county seat. Situated in the central part of the state, McPherson is known for its blend of industry, agriculture, and education. As of 2020, the city had a population of 14,082, which has seen slight fluctuations in recent years. The city offers a mix of small-town charm and economic opportunities, making it a notable community in central Kansas. McPherson's economy is diverse, with key sectors including manufacturing, education, and healthcare. Major employers in the area include Pfizer, CHS Oil Refinery, and Viega, contributing to a stable economic environment. The city is also home to McPherson College and Central Christian College, which not only provide educational opportunities but also contribute to the local economy. McPherson benefits from its strategic location and affordable utilities, attracting industries and supporting local businesses. McPherson is distinctive for its historical roots and commitment to quality of life. Founded in 1870 and named after Civil War General James Birdseye McPherson, the city has preserved much of its early history, with landmarks like the McPherson Opera House and the McPherson County Courthouse on the National Register of Historic Places. The city also offers a range of recreational opportunities, including parks, golf courses, and the McPherson Water Park, enhancing the quality of life for its residents.
McPherson, Kansas
- Classification
- City
- FIPS Code
- 20-43950
- Country
- United States
- County
- McPherson
- Region
- Central Kansas
- Elevation
- 1,493 ft
- Total Area
- 7.23 sq mi
- Land Area
- 7.18 sq mi
- Water Area
- 0.05 sq mi
- Latitude
- 38.37139
- Longitude
- -97.66056
- Climate
- The changing of the seasons in McPherson brings auburn leaves, sparkling snow, velvet purple crocuses, and warm summer breezes.
- Notable Features
- Little Arkansas River Watershed · Dry Turkey Creek · McPherson Valley Wetlands
- Neighboring Areas
- Lindsborg · Elyria · Galva · Inman · Moundridge
- Population (2020)
- 14,082
- Est. Population (2024)
- 13,995
- Median Age
- 35.4
- Median Income
- $77,529
- Poverty Rate
- 13.5%
- Owner-Occupied
- 65.4%
- Racial & Ethnic Composition
- The racial makeup of McPherson is 85.5% White, 7.2% Hispanic, 4.0% Multiracial, and 2.4% Black.
- Government Type
- City Commission
- Governing Body
- City Commission
- Body Size
- 3 members
- School District
- McPherson USD 418
- Municipal Services
- Police · Fire · Public Works · Parks & Recreation
- Unemployment Rate
- 2.5%
- Economic Profile
- Industrial · Agricultural · Educational
- Employment Sectors
- Manufacturing · Educational Services · Health Care & Social Assistance
- Major Employers
- Pfizer · CHS Oil Refinery · Viega · Johns-Manville
- Students
- 2,263
- Student-Teacher Ratio
- 12:1
- School Districts
- McPherson USD 418
- Colleges & Universities
- McPherson College · Central Christian College of Kansas
- Transportation
- U.S. Route 56 · Interstate 135 · Rail lines
- Utilities
- Municipal water · Municipal power
- Major Facilities
- McPherson Hospital · McPherson City/County Airport
- Outdoor Access
- Yes
- Major Recreation Areas
- Maxwell Wildlife Refuge · McPherson Valley Wetlands · Lakeside Park
- Parks & Trails
- City Parks · Meadowlark Trail
- Founded
- 1870
- Incorporated
- 1874
- Named After
- Union General James Birdseye McPherson
- Historical Significance
- McPherson has evolved from an agricultural center to a diversified community with a strong industrial base and a commitment to preserving its historical heritage.
- Key Events
- Founded by the McPherson Town Company in 1870 · Attempted to become the state capital in 1887 · Oil discovered in McPherson County in the late 1920s






