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Ottawa, KS

View of Ottawa, KS
Image credit: Ian Ballinger / CC BY-SA 4.0
Population
12,716
U.S. Census Population Estimates Program · 2025
Elevation
901 ft
Median Home Value
$166,500
U.S. Census American Community Survey 5-Year · 2024
Median Rent
$1,032/mo
U.S. Census American Community Survey 5-Year · 2024
Median Income
$71,699
U.S. Census American Community Survey 5-Year · 2024
General Quality
Overall rating out of 100

Highlights

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OverallBest places in KansasPopulation rankingHighest population places in KansasNearest larger communityGardner, Kansas23 miles away · 26,154 residents.

About Ottawa

Nestled along the Marais des Cygnes River in eastern Kansas, Ottawa offers a relaxed small-town pace with a welcoming community feel. Home to roughly 12,000 people, the town pairs quiet residential streets with the youthful energy of Ottawa University, which was founded in the 1860s. Local parks and the scenic river corridor provide plenty of green space to unwind, bike, or take an evening stroll.

Ottawa kansas downtown 2009

Much of the town's charm comes from its historic downtown district, where you will find local cafes, antique shops, and the Plaza Cinema, recognized as the world's oldest continuously operating purpose-built movie theater. With a solid public school system, affordable housing, and direct access to Interstate 35 for an easy commute to Lawrence or Kansas City, Ottawa is a comfortable and practical place to settle down.

Top Rating Signals

Highest current ratings for this town.

Lower County Wildfire Hazard Potential ClassA+100.0ratingLower FEMA County Hurricane Risk IndexA+100.0ratingLower Projected Late-Century County-Area Exposure to Sea-Level RiseA+100.0rating

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