Greater Wichita Partnership > Data & Resources > Wages & Income
High-Skill, Low Labor Costs
In the greater Wichita region, competitive labor costs and a highly skilled workforce give businesses more room to grow. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the Wichita metropolitan area's average annual wage was approximately $58,822 in May 2025, compared with the national average of $69,763. That's nearly $11,000, or 15.7%, below the national average.
The region's manufacturing expertise is a key competitive advantage. Production occupations account for 10.8% of Wichita-area employment, nearly double the national share of 5.5%. Wichita also offers a strong concentration of specialized talent in aerospace manufacturing, engineering and advanced production, supporting businesses seeking an experienced workforce and competitive operating costs.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wages in Wichita — May 2025
Employee Benefits Data
- According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employee benefits accounted for approximately 33.2% of total compensation costs among U.S. manufacturing employers in June 2026, averaging $16.12 per hour worked.
- Employers commonly offer comprehensive benefits packages that include medical, dental and vision insurance, life and disability insurance, retirement savings plans and paid time off.
- Flexible benefits programs, including cafeteria plans, allow employees to select benefits based on individual and family needs.
- Retirement benefits commonly include employer-sponsored 401(k) plans, which may offer matching contributions. Some employers also provide traditional pension plans.
- Additional benefits may include tuition reimbursement, professional development opportunities, wellness programs and other employee assistance initiatives.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employer Costs for Employee Compensation (June 2026). Benefits descriptions are illustrative and may vary by employer.
Right-to-Work State
- Kansas is among the only 10 states enacting a Right-To-Work (RTW) by state constitutional amendment. As such, Kansas RTW status can only be changed by a vote of the people and is not vulnerable to legislative reversal.
- Kansas is an "at will" employment state. There are no unusual employment regulations or restrictions.
- Of the 28 states that prohibit required union membership (Right-To-Work or RTW states), 20 enacted RTW-by-state statute. Such statutory RTW laws are vulnerable to legislative reversal.
- Unions in Kansas cannot attempt to collect “service fees” from workers who choose to not join a union.
- Discover how your business can save with low Tax and Utility costs.
- Learn more about the region’s highly skilled Workforce.
Chief Economic Development Officer
Andrew Nave
Connect with the Greater Wichita Partnership for more insight into the policies and data that make this region an opportune area for growth and expansion.
