Riley County, Kansas is a vibrant and welcoming place, known for its strong ties to education, research, and community spirit. Nestled in the scenic Flint Hills region, the county offers a unique mix of natural beauty, small-town charm, and economic opportunity. The county is home to Kansas State University in Manhattan, a leading institution that drives innovation, cultural activity, and a youthful energy throughout the region. With Tuttle Creek Lake and miles of open prairie, residents enjoy year-round opportunities for outdoor recreation, from boating and fishing to hiking and biking in the rolling hills.



What makes Riley County special is its balance of tradition and progress. The county is home to several communities, each with a distinct character. Manhattan, the largest city and county seat, boasts a lively downtown, historic neighborhoods, and a thriving arts and dining scene. Smaller communities such as Ogden, Riley, and Randolph offer a quieter pace of life while still being closely connected to the opportunities in the region. Residents take pride in their Midwestern hospitality, family-friendly atmosphere, and the traditions that bring people together.


Riley County

From Roots to Opportunity: Build Your Future in Riley County 

Ready to build your future in a place that feels like home?

Riley County is hiring — and we’re excited to welcome you to a community where career growth, connection, and quality of life come together. Whether you’re starting fresh or looking to take the next step, you’ll find opportunity and belonging right here in Riley County.

Riley County offers the perfect blend of opportunity, community, and adventure — where your career can grow and your quality of life flourishes. Here’s what you’ll find:

 across education, healthcare, manufacturing, agriculture, and technology — with employers who value innovation, collaboration, and work-life balance.

 with welcoming neighborhoods, excellent schools, and convenient access to all the amenities of nearby 

 — including shopping, dining, and entertainment.

, explore miles of trails, or spend your weekends kayaking, hiking, and camping surrounded by Kansas’ natural beauty.

 — From farmers markets and local festivals to vibrant arts, music, and university events, Riley County offers plenty of ways to connect and feel at home.

Get ready to feel at home in Riley County! We are putting together a package that makes your move not just easier—but way more exciting:

 – start your next chapter with a little extra boost.

Riley County offers career paths in several key and growing sectors:

 – Anchored by Kansas State University, the county is rich in teaching, campus operations, research, technology commercialization, and student-support roles. The university is one of the region’s largest employers and drives innovation, making this sector accessible and dynamic.

 – With Fort Riley in the region, Riley County has significant opportunities tied to military support, logistics, civilian roles, supply-chain operations, transportation, and infrastructure. The presence of the base plus associated civilian workforce makes this a stable and growth-oriented sector.

 – The region’s population growth, educational institutions, and military presence drive demand for healthcare facilities, clinics, allied health professionals, administrative support, and wellness services. Working in this sector means meaningful impact and strong career prospects.

 – Manufacturing remains key in Riley County, with companies such as Caterpillar Work Tools and others employing hundreds and offering roles in production, maintenance, welding, assembly, and process engineering.

 – The county’s location in Kansas means agriculture and related industries still play a meaningful role: from crop and livestock production to agribusiness services, bio-industry research (linked to the university/research side) and value-chain roles. This sector offers entry points that build into steady careers.

Whether you’re entering the workforce, reskilling, or ready to advance — Riley County offers a balanced mix of employers and industries — and a community that’s ready to help you thrive.

 – Browse current openings through Riley County’s trusted job search resources and local employment sites.

 – Reach out to employers who are actively hiring and eager to welcome new talent to the community.

 – Make your move with confidence — Riley County’s welcoming community is ready to help you settle in and thrive.

Riley County: Where Careers and Community Meet

This is more than just a new job — it’s your opportunity to build a life in a place that values connection, innovation, and a genuine sense of belonging.

Relocating is a major step — but you won’t do it alone. Riley County offers relocation support, access to employers, and introductions to local networks and community leaders who want you to succeed. Start the process today and make the move with confidence.

Riley County, Kansas is a vibrant and welcoming place, known for its strong ties to education, research, and community spirit. Nestled in the scenic Flint Hills region, the county offers a unique mix of natural beauty, small-town charm, and economic opportunity. The county is home to Kansas State University in Manhattan, a leading institution that drives innovation, cultural activity, and a youthful energy throughout the region. With Tuttle Creek Lake and miles of open prairie, residents enjoy year-round opportunities for outdoor recreation, from boating and fishing to hiking and biking in the rolling hills. 

 Live and Work Local in Riley County, Kansas

Live Locally, Work Remotely: Make Your Move to Riley County

Looking for a community with big energy and small-town heart?
Riley County, Kansas offers the perfect blend of small-town charm and modern living — with vibrant downtown life in nearby Manhattan, great local dining, outdoor adventures at Tuttle Creek Lake, and everything you need to thrive whether you’re working remotely or building your career locally.

Why Move to Riley County as a Remote Worker?

Riley County is a welcoming community where small-town charm meets modern convenience. It’s the perfect place for remote professionals seeking balance — offering affordable living, dependable connectivity, and a vibrant local network that helps you feel right at home.

 — Riley County offers everything you need for comfortable living, including excellent schools, a full-service hospital, clinics, dental and veterinary care, libraries, grocery stores, and a variety of locally owned shops.

 with boating, hiking, and camping, or explore the scenic 

 for breathtaking views of the Kansas Flint Hills.

, where you’ll find cozy coffee shops, unique boutiques, and local restaurants that make every outing feel special.

 — From lively farmers markets and art walks to concerts, tailgates, and festivals, Riley County is a place where new faces quickly become familiar friends.

Riley County: More Than a Move—It’s a Community

This is a place where neighbors wave as you pass by, where weekends are spent exploring Tuttle Creek Lake or cheering on local events, and where downtown Manhattan buzzes with creativity, connection, and Kansas pride. Remote work gives you freedom—

Riley County gives you a place to belong.

Looking for a place with energy, opportunity, and connection?
Choose Riley County — a community where innovation meets Kansas charm, and newcomers are welcomed like old friends. With vibrant downtown Manhattan, beautiful outdoor spaces like Tuttle Creek Lake and the Konza Prairie, affordable living, and relocation incentives designed to make your move easier, Riley County is ready to help you build your future while feeling right at home.

 Live and Work Remote in Riley County, Kansas

Arts in the Park is our summer concert series brought to you by Manhattan Parks and Rec and put on by the Art Press Fund that brings live music to you every Friday throughout the summer. For over 40 years, the Manhattan Parks and Recreation Department has sponsored, organized, and produced FREE weekly outdoor concerts for the Manhattan community. We try offer a variety of musical genres, including Country, Folk, Americana, Rock & Roll, Alt Rock, Soul, and Funk. Shows start at 7:30 p.m. at the Larry Norvell Band Shell in City Park unless otherwise noted.

Outdoor concert in a park at sunset, with a joyful crowd enjoying music on the grass. A festive, communal atmosphere.

The image depicts a lively outdoor event, likely a concert or performance, taking place in a park. There is a stage set up in the background, and a crowd of people is gathered on the grass, seated on blankets and in chairs. The scene is bathed in warm, golden light from a sunset, which enhances the inviting atmosphere.

The mood of the photo is joyful and communal, evoking feelings of relaxation and enjoyment. It suggests a sense of togetherness, as people share the experience of live music and social interactions. The greenery and natural setting add an element of tranquility, making the scene feel encouraging and festive. Overall, the image radiates warmth, happiness, and a spirit of community celebration.

Arts in the Park

Experience the culture and beauty of the Flint Hills at our annual community festival, held each year on the first Saturday in May.

Live entertainment, food trucks, children's activities, community groups, and more are all on display at this celebration of our beautiful region!

Flint Hills Discovery Center, South 3rd Street, Manhattan, KS

Flint Hills Festival

Third Thursdays are monthly street faire and maker's market events from May to September, 5-8pm, with activities like cake walks and musicians. 

Downtown Manhattan, Inc., Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, KS

Third Thursdays

Hundreds of runners converge in MHK each spring for a charitable race with a stadium finish. The race is named after the coach who created the greatest turnaround in college football history, Bill Snyder. The Bill Snyder Highway half-marathon continues to grow and attract runners from areas around the Midwest and farther reaches of the country.

The route starts on the Bill Snyder Highway and goes through downtown, swings by Johnny Kaw through Aggieville and around campus finishing at Bill Snyder Family Stadium. 

Bill Snyder Family Stadium, Kimball Avenue, Manhattan, KS

Bill Snyder Highway Half & 5k

The 13th Annual Festival of Lights is going to be bigger & better than ever before. We are so grateful to the Manhattan community for growing this spectacular event with us each year!

13th Annual Lighting Ceremony

On Small Business Saturday, the FHDC connects merchants who grow, produce, process, manufacture, or craft their products in Kansas with those seeking to make a difference with their dollars in their home state. Bringing a variety of businesses together in one place gives shoppers the opportunity to explore several products from around the region to help them find that perfect gift for someone special. This year, we are also adding food trucks.

There is no cost to visit the vendors, food trucks, or the FHDC gift store; regular admission rates apply to enter the exhibits.

Kansas Holiday Market & Food Truck Festival

Verify your application and eligibility by uploading a 

. Learn more about the community by connecting with a community champion.

You're waiting for a formal offer from the community. In the meantime, 

You have been selected to formally join the program! Review your offer details and 

. Keep us posted on your progress. And if you need a hand, we’re here to connect you with helpful resources.

 or connect with the program owner about receiving your program benefits.

• Prevented from creating new community posts and comments

These incredible communities are welcoming remote workers, teachers, nurses and more with incentives and networking programs.

Move to the place that moves you.

Users are automatically given this role when one of their posts is approved

• Community posts no longer require approval

• Can moderate comments on community posts

Your place is calling, and we're here to help you get there

Interested in living in {{formattedLocationText}}? Read local reviews and explore statistics on crime, school systems, real estate, and cost of living.

• Can invite new members to the community

• Can change the roles of other members, excluding Owners

• Can change the roles of all other members

{{formattedLocationText}} - Guide to Living & Working

Post with pictures to get more clicks! 📸

Feel free to add a hashtag to your post in the text box if there is a topic you’d like to add.

If you’d like to include a link, click the chain link icon in the bottom of the text box.

Please share this post on your personal sites and social media.

Events in Riley County, Kansas

Get Paid to Live in Riley County, Kansas