Relocating your business isn’t just a logistics problem; it’s a strategic move. If you’re eyeing a new city to build, expand, or stabilize your operations, Lawrence, Kansas, deserves a serious look.
Nestled between two rivers and just off Interstate 70, this college town blends the brains of a university hub with the heart of a locally driven economy. It’s more than just basketball and campus life. Lawrence is where businesses, startups, franchises, and established firms find real opportunities to grow, supported by a community that actually wants them to succeed.
Too often, small and midsize companies get overlooked in cities that cater to massive corporations. But Lawrence flips that dynamic. Here, small business owners are local heroes, and independent thinking is baked into the culture. You’re not just opening shop in a city—you’re plugging into a network that’s rooting for you.
1. A Strong Ecosystem for Startups and Small Businesses
Lawrence has become a magnet for entrepreneurs, and that’s no accident. The infrastructure here supports small businesses from day one, not just in spirit, but with tangible tools and funding access.
It all starts with spaces like Lawrence VenturePark, a 220-acre industrial park that offers flexible development opportunities. Paired with the Bioscience & Technology Business Center (BTBC), the city is fostering industries like research, life sciences, and advanced manufacturing.
And the support doesn’t end at space. The Peaslee Technical Training Center helps employers upskill their workforce, while the Douglas County E-Community Loan Fund provides capital to promising startups that banks might overlook.
In short, if you’ve got a business idea and the drive to see it through, Lawrence will meet you halfway.
2. You’ll Save Money Without Sacrificing Resources
Let’s talk dollars and sense. Running a business in Lawrence costs a fraction of what it does in larger metro areas. Rent is cheaper. Utilities are reasonable. And salaries, while competitive, don’t break your budget.
What’s the trade-off? There really isn’t one. Lawrence is wired with high-speed internet, well-maintained roads, access to major highways, and nearby airports in Kansas City and Topeka. You’re plugged into regional markets without paying regional premiums.
For many businesses, those savings mean reinvesting in people, equipment, marketing, or simply having better margins.
3. A Deep Talent Pool You Can Actually Reach
Thanks to the presence of the University of Kansas and Haskell Indian Nations University, you’re sitting on a steady stream of qualified talent and not just in theory. Unlike major cities where top grads vanish into giant corporations or relocate out of state, many KU students stay local, especially when they find meaningful job opportunities.
From engineers and coders to marketing majors and future educators, you’ll find people hungry to join growing teams. And with Lawrence’s high bachelor’s degree attainment rate (ranked #6 nationally), you’re not pulling from an average pool—you’re pulling from the top shelf.
Need interns, entry-level employees, or research partnerships? KU makes it easy to build those bridges.
4. Downtown That Works Hard and Plays Hard
Some cities have a downtown because they have to. Lawrence has one because it wants to.
Massachusetts Street (Mass Street) is one of the most iconic main streets in the Midwest, packed with local businesses, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, and art galleries. It’s walkable, friendly, and constantly buzzing with events like Final Fridays, live music, and seasonal festivals.
If your business thrives on visibility and walk-in traffic—think restaurants, boutiques, fitness studios, or creative agencies—this is the part of town you’ll want to explore. And if you’re more of a behind-the-scenes operator, having a lively downtown makes it easier to recruit and retain employees who want to live and work where things are happening.
5. Real Help from Real People
Forget the endless red tape you’ve probably dealt with in other cities. Lawrence’s support system for businesses is refreshingly human.
Start with the KU Small Business Development Center (KSBDC). They provide no-cost business advising and low-cost workshops for everything from writing business plans to exploring financing options. Need help securing a loan, setting up QuickBooks, or filing for licenses? They’ll walk you through it.
Meanwhile, the Lawrence Chamber of Commerce isn’t just a networking club—they’re active advocates for economic development. Their partnerships with city officials, KU, and the private sector keep new opportunities flowing.
You won’t be doing this alone, and that makes a big difference when you’re juggling operations, hiring, and growth.
6. A Lifestyle That Sells Itself
Moving a business often means moving people, too, and quality of life matters. The good news? Lawrence delivers.
This city combines the accessibility of a small town with the culture and diversity of a much larger place. Employees relocating to Lawrence will find:
- Safe neighborhoods with character
- Top-rated public and private schools
- Tons of parks, bike trails, and public green spaces
- A nationally recognized public library
- Regular events that foster community
And yes, if you or your team enjoys golf, Lawrence offers both the Jayhawk Club and Eagle Bend, with 45 total holes and scenic fairways that double as perfect places for client meetings or post-shift decompression.
7. Central Location with National Reach
Lawrence sits right in the middle of the country. Within 30 to 45 minutes, you’ve got access to:
- Kansas City International Airport (MCI)
- I-70 and K-10, which connect you to Topeka, KC, and beyond
- Major freight, shipping, and rail routes
That’s a huge benefit if you’re in logistics, manufacturing, or any industry that depends on regional or national distribution. Being close to major cities but not paying their rates is a smart position to be in.
Bonus: You’re in Good Company
Lawrence isn’t uncharted territory. It’s home to a range of thriving employers across healthcare, construction, publishing, education, and tech, such as:
- University of Kansas
- Amarr Garage Doors
- Lawrence Memorial Hospital
- Allen Press
- Laird Noller Auto Group
- Cobalt Iron (a cloud-based data protection firm)
This variety keeps the local economy stable and diversified. That’s the kind of environment where businesses don’t just survive—they thrive.
Lawrence Is Ready for Your Business
Lawrence offers what a lot of places promise but rarely deliver: a true balance of affordability, talent, support, and community. It’s not just a convenient location or a charming college town—it’s a place where businesses are actually valued.
If you want a fresh start or a smarter long-term strategy, this is a city that will reward the move. And when you’re ready to make that transition, a reliable local partner like Moving Proz can help make your relocation seamless from day one. Get a free quote today!