Salina Kansas represents a steady population center in north central Kansas with a mix of urban services and affordable living. Understanding current Salina Kansas population trends helps residents, businesses, and policymakers plan for housing, schools, and local economic development.
This overview draws on official estimates and local indicators to present a clear picture of how the city is changing. The following sections break out demographic structure, age and education details, labor and income factors, and what these trends mean for the community.
Population Overview and Key Indicators
| Indicator | 2020 Census | 2023 Estimate | Change Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Population | 48,836 | 48,200 | Slight decline of about 1.3% from 2020 to 2023 |
| Median Age | 38.2 years | 38.7 years | A modest aging of the population |
| Households | 20,845 | 21,050 | Small increase in households despite population dip |
| Average Household Size | 2.30 | 2.29 | Marginal decrease in size per household |
| Population Density | 1,360 per sq mi | 1,350 per sq mi | Stable density with slight decrease |
Age and Gender Composition in Salina
The age structure in Salina reflects a balanced mix of working age adults, young families, and older residents. Births have remained steady while outmigration in younger cohorts has gently raised median age.
Age Group Breakdown
| Age Group | Share of Population | Key Implications |
|---|---|---|
| Under 18 | 23.1% | Continued demand for schools and youth programs |
| 18 to 64 | 59.4% | Core working age population supporting labor market |
| 65 and Older | 17.5% | Growth in senior services and healthcare needs |
Education and Skills Profile
Higher education attainment in Salina supports roles in healthcare, engineering, and advanced manufacturing. Local colleges and technical programs help retain talent and supply skilled workers to regional employers.
Educational Attainment for Residents 25 and Older
| Education Level | Percentage of Adults | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Less than High School | 8.2% | Continued outreach to improve basic credentials |
| High School Graduate or Equivalent | 28.6% | Solid foundation for technical training |
| Some College or Associate Degree | 25.3% | Strong pipeline to local skilled jobs |
| Bachelor’s Degree or Higher | 37.9% | Above national median for similar sized cities |
Economic and Labor Market Context
Salina’s economy is anchored by manufacturing, aerospace, and healthcare sectors. Understanding labor participation, income, and poverty helps gauge how widely residents are benefiting from local job growth.
Key Labor and Income Indicators
| Labor Indicator | Value | Comparison to Kansas Average |
|---|---|---|
| Labor Force Participation Rate | 65.4% | Slightly above state average |
| Unemployment Rate | 3.1% | Below national average, near state average |
| Median Household Income | $56,200 | Comparable to mid-sized Kansas peers |
| Poverty Rate | 11.8% | Moderate, with targeted community programs |
Housing and Community Trends
Salina’s housing market remains relatively affordable with steady new construction and renovation. Population stability supports neighborhood vitality while allowing room for thoughtful growth in key districts.
Future Outlook and Key Takeaways for Salina
- Monitor population trends to guide school capacity and infrastructure investments.
- Strengthen talent pipelines between local colleges and key employers in aerospace and manufacturing.
- Support small business development to broaden employment options.
- Expand senior services to accommodate the growing 65 and older population.
- Advance housing strategies that maintain affordability while encouraging diverse neighborhood options.
FAQ
Reader questions
Is Salina Kansas losing population or growing?
The city’s population has slightly declined by about 1.3% from 2020 to 2023, indicating a modest dip rather than a sharp outflow of residents.
How does education in Salina compare statewide?
Salina’s rate of bachelor’s degree attainment at 37.9% is higher than the Kansas average for similarly sized cities, driven by strong local higher education institutions.
What are the primary industries supporting employment in Salina?
Aerospace and manufacturing, healthcare and social assistance, and retail trade together form the largest share of jobs in Salina, according to recent location quotient data.
What is the housing affordability situation for median income households in Salina?
Median home prices remain within reach for households earning the area median income, with a typical price-to-income ratio that suggests moderate, not severe, affordability pressure.