Russell’s small-town spirit shows in everyday acts
Russell is a rural town of about 4,000 people in the heart of Kansas. Its small but vibrant downtown is paved with red brick, featuring charming storefronts and murals by local artists. The population has been shrinking since the end of an oil boom in the 1960s, but longtime residents stay true to their friendly Midwestern ways. "Our community is close-knit and friendly," says Ryleigh Wagner, assistant director for Russel County's economic development department. "You always have someone to turn to at every corner." When the local bookstore asked for help moving its books and furniture to a new location, the people of Russell came out in full force. Organizations, individuals, even the high school football team lent a hand. Community fundraising for a new playground is ongoing, too.
Historic homes and newer builds offer a wide price range
Russell has a range of housing styles from the late 1800s to today. The oldest homes, like bungalows, Cape Cods and small cottages, sell for $40,000 to $130,000, though some fixer-uppers sell for as low as $15,000. Ranch-style homes, split-levels and Colonials from the turn of the century range between $150,000 and $280,000. Modern farmhouses and New Traditional homes are less common and usually found outside Russell's dense residential center. They sell for $300,000 to $400,000. The town has a CAP Index Crime Score of 2 out of 10, compared to the national average of 4.
A walkable core with art, boutiques and locally owned specialty shops
"Our county and downtown are covered in murals on the side of shops and buildings," Wagner says. Stores include a bookstore, a kitchen supply store, a printing shop and clothing boutiques. At A&W, visitors can order and eat in their car, parked under a bright orange awning. Classic menu items include chili dogs, chicken sandwiches and root beer floats. Fast-food chains are south, toward Interstate 70, and residents do their grocery shopping at Klema Apple Market. "The only thing we're missing is fine dining and shopping, but Hays is super close — only about 30 minutes away," Wagner says.
Outdoor spaces are expanding with fresh features and upgrades
Memorial Park is the main place to get active outdoors with a skate park, a nine-hole public golf course, baseball diamonds and tennis courts. The disc golf course and walking trails are the newest additions, and a playground upgrade is underway. "The entire community is fundraising to build an all-inclusive playground at Memorial Park," Wagner says. "We want a place where all children can play together." Cecil Bricker Park has a splashpad and an old-western-themed playground built in 2024. Bickerdyke Park is a large green space with walking trails, a pavilion and play equipment.
Career prep includes welding, apprenticeships and technical skills
Simpson Elementary School serves kindergarten and first grade and earns a B-minus from Niche, while Bickerdyke Elementary School serves second through fifth and gets a B. Ruppenthan Middle School and Russell High School both get a C-plus. "The high school just recently kicked off a new welding program," Wagner says. "They also partner with Barton Community College, and students can earn college credits while attending high school." The welding program is one of several career and technical pathways offered by the high school, and students can also participate in apprenticeship programs with local businesses.
The annual fair brings rides, music and quirky competitions
For a few days in July, residents gather for musical performances, food and carnival rides at the Russell County Free Fair. Livestock is on display and for sale in the 4-H tent, and locals can compete in a cornhole tournament or race their turtle and frog pets. Other events throughout the year include a Christmas parade, Independence Day fireworks and a car show.
Interstate 70 connects residents to jobs and services nearby
The surrounding county's leading industries include agriculture, wheat production, ethanol manufacturing and petroleum production. More diverse employers are about 30 miles west in Hays via Interstate 70. Salina is another regional hub of central Kansas, about 70 miles east. Russell Regional Hospital is in Russell, and Hays Regional Airport is about 30 miles away. The nearest international airport is in Kansas City , 250 miles away.
Written By
Heather Haggerty
