Rural charm remains as Larned’s population declines
In Larned, Kansas, there are more than 10 times as many cows as there are people. Miles of farms, crop fields and livestock production centers surround the small city and seat of Pawnee County, which has fewer than 4,000 people but tens of thousands of cattle. Larned's population is shrinking, with more people steadily moving out each year than moving in. But, if people are moving to Larned, it's for one of two reasons: "I'd say, in general, people are moving here for employment or because they have family living in the area," says Jason Winget, Realtor with Clock Realty & Insurance. Those born and raised, however, stay for the rural charm and close community. "It's a pretty quiet small town where everyone seems to know one another and what's going on at all times," Winget says.
A few large industries on the outskirts of the small city
Innovative Livestock Services is a livestock production company based in Kansas, which has almost 200,000 cattle and more than 30,000 acres of farmland. Two of their nine locations are in Larned, providing many jobs. "The biggest reason people are moving to Larned, however, is the state hospital," Winget says. Larned State Hospital is a psychiatric hospital about two miles west. Other significant employers include Pawnee Valley Community Hospital and Larned State Correctional Facility.
Home condition varies as much as home prices do
The area's gridded streets, some laid with brick, have a collection of bungalows, Cape Cods and ranch-style homes ranging from $50,000 to $150,000. Larger one-story homes, split-levels and Colonial Revivals range between $140,000 and $390,000. "There is a wide range in price, and the type of home and condition you're getting depends a lot on the price," Winget says. "The prices also fluctuate, just like in any small rural city." The condition of homes and properties varies from street to street and house to house; some homes and yards are better maintained than others. New construction in the area is rare, and according to Winget, "If a home is being built, it's usually the buyer themselves putting it up."
Schools focus on community engagement and student-centered goals
Fort Larned United School District 495 serves students in Larned and the outlying communities in eastern Pawnee County. The district's Exploring Excellence plan includes objectives such as student-centered programming, parent and community engagement and improving facilities and resources. Children may begin learning at Larned Elementary School, rated B by Niche. Larned Middle School earns a B-minus, and Larned High School earns a C-plus. Sports programs continue throughout the summer with training programs, athletic camps and personal lessons for students.
Outlets to get active and explore local history
Neighborhood parks with playgrounds and baseball fields are all around, including Moffett Stadium, which has stadium-style seating, batting cages and tennis courts. Kids can cool off in the splash pad or explore the giant wooden playground at Doerr Vernon Park.
Larned gets its name from Fort Larned National Historic Site. About five miles west, the attraction is an 1800s army post restored into a living museum and education center. The Santa Fe Trail Center, which explores the history of the vital trade route through exhibits, artifacts and written stories, is also in Larned.
Dining and shopping are sparse, with more in Great Bend
Local shops along Broadway Street include a flower shop, a thrift store, vintage clothing boutiques and a stationary store. Dining is limited in the area, but fast-food chains and local eateries are spread out around Larned. "There's only a handful of restaurants, but there are a few Mexican spots and some good burger joints," Winget says. The Diner opened in October 2024 and is a classic 1950s-themed restaurant with red leather chairs and black and white checkered floors. Their specialties are burgers, shakes and fries. For groceries and other essentials, Dillons and Dollar General are close, and residents head outside the area for most home and retail shopping. " Great Bend would be their first stop, which is about 25 miles or 30 minutes away," Winget says. "After that, people are heading to Wichita , Hays or Hutchinson , depending on what they need."
Long drives to bigger cities are standard via U.S. Route 56
U.S. Route 56 is the main road connecting Larned to larger cities like Great Bend and Dodge City , which are 25 and 60 miles away, respectively. Dodge City Regional Airport has domestic flights, while the nearest airport with international flights is in Kansas City , more than 280 miles away.
Written By
Heather Haggerty
