When people think of small towns, they often picture quiet streets and friendly neighbors—but they may overlook the thriving work opportunities that come with rural living. Sometimes the best work-life balance jobs can be found where you least expect them. In Smith County, Kansas, professional success and a high quality of life go hand in hand. Whether you’re building your own business, working remotely, bringing world-class skills to a community that values them, or pursuing professional growth through employer-sponsored training, Smith County is a place where you don’t have to choose between living where you want and thriving in your career.
In this article, we'll explore just a couple of the opportunities you can pursue in Smith County, KS.
Table of Contents:
RURAL ENTREPRENEURIALISM: BUILD YOUR OWN SUCCESS STORY
Rural areas are fertile ground for entrepreneurial ventures. With lower startup costs, supportive communities, and the chance to make a big impact in a small-town market, starting a business in Smith County is as rewarding as it is practical.
Small-town entrepreneurs have access to:
Affordable Real Estate: Whether it’s a storefront, open space, or office space, your dollar stretches further in rural Kansas.
Community Support: Neighbors rally behind local businesses, fostering strong customer loyalty and shared success.
Freedom to Innovate: The flexibility to try new ideas and fill niche markets in underserved areas.
Case in Point: The Roush Family
The Roushes own and operate R Family Farms, a farm-to-table open-air Berkshire Pork operation, and a newly renovated grocery store named Main Street Mercantile, which serves meals during the week and acts as a gathering space for the community. The Roush Family story highlights how rural areas, coupled with modern technology, offer opportunities to scale businesses beyond local borders.
"We get to live where we want to live and raise our family where we want to raise our family and still have a very successful business. We're reaching people all across the country, and we've even exported pork to Japan. That's really fun to say when you've been here in little ol' Lebanon, Kansas." -Kaden Roush
REMOTE WORK: A GAME CHANGER FOR RURAL LIVING
The rise of remote work has made it easier than ever to live where you love without sacrificing professional aspirations. Recent studies show a dramatic increase in remote work, with nearly 28% of the U.S. workforce now working from home full-time.
Why Smith County for Remote Work?
High-Speed Internet: With over 650 miles of fiber optic cable, Smith County ensures reliable, fast internet access.
Relocation Incentives: Through the Make My Move program, Smith County offers up to $5,750 in cash and relocation support for remote workers.
Lower Cost of Living: Enjoy the financial benefits of living in a rural community while keeping a high-paying remote job.
The Benefits of Rural Remote Work:
Quality of Life: Trade gridlock for sunsets and long commutes for more time with family.
Flexibility: Live in a close-knit community while maintaining connections with clients or teams worldwide.
Savings: Reduce expenses with affordable housing and lower living costs.
In today's day and age, you no longer have to choose between professional success and living in a place that feels like home. For more information on Smith County's remote working incentives visit our Make My Move profile or contact us today.
BRINGING EXPERTISE TO A WELCOMING COMMUNITY
For professionals with global experience, Smith County provides unique opportunities to apply those skills while enjoying a quieter pace of life. Small towns appreciate—and reward—the knowledge and innovation you bring to the table.
A Global Chef in a Rural Hospital
Chef Steve, Executive Chef, and Registered Dietitian at Smith County Memorial Hospital, has worked in world-class kitchens from the Middle East to the West Indies. Now, he’s making a difference in Smith County by blending international culinary expertise with a passion for nutrition education. Smith County Memorial Hospital embraced his dual expertise, creating an elevated service that now offers personalized, nutritious meals to patients and the community.
Employers across the county value professionals like Chef Steve, recognizing the transformative impact of diverse skills and experiences.
"I've worked in the West Indies for 30 years. Everywhere from Jamaica in the north to Grenada in the south, and in the Middle East in Dubai and Qatar...and here I am in Smith Center, Kansas still bringing the food of those cultures to people that want to experience it." -Steven Smith, Executive Chef & Registered Dietitian
TRAIN AND GROW IN SMITH COUNTY: OPPORTUNITIES FOR ALL
In Smith County, employers invest in their workforce, providing opportunities for career growth and professional development through training programs and scholarships.
Manufacturing Careers: Local manufacturers are eager to train individuals in high-demand skills, such as welding, ensuring anyone with drive and determination can step into a fulfilling career.
Hometown Grow Our Own: This scholarship program at Smith County Memorial Hospital empowers employees to pursue further education and enhance their skills. Funded by community donations, the program covers tuition and related expenses for degrees, certifications, and training programs. Employees return equipped to elevate their roles and share their knowledge with colleagues.
Transition to Teaching: For those looking to pivot into education, Smith County schools participate in programs like Transition to Teaching, which helps individuals without traditional education backgrounds earn their teaching licenses while on the job.
Ashley Breshears’ Journey
Ashley Breshears moved to Smith Center with her husband Kurt after completing her master’s degree at Ole Miss. Thanks to the Transition to Teaching program, she was able to step into a teaching role at Smith Center Jr/Sr High School while earning her education license.
"The superintendent let me know that there is a program called Transition to Teaching that allows people like me who do not have a traditional education background to go get their education license while teaching at the high school"
Programs like these not only support individual aspirations but also strengthen the community by creating a skilled, locally rooted workforce.
WHY SMITH COUNTY? YOUR CAREER, YOUR LIFESTYLE
Smith County isn’t just a place to live—it’s a place to thrive. Here’s why more individuals and families are choosing our community:
Strong Support Systems: Whether you’re starting a business, working remotely, or growing within your current role, Smith County residents are quick to welcome and support newcomers.
Work-Life Balance: A slower pace of life and short commutes give you more time to focus on what matters.
Incentives to Move: Programs like Make My Move and other relocation incentives make Smith County an attractive choice for families and professionals alike.
A Chance to Make a Difference: In a small community, your impact is felt—and appreciated.
READY TO TAKE THE LEAP?
Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a remote worker, or a professional seeking growth and training, Smith County offers the resources, support, and lifestyle to help you succeed. Visit our Career page to learn more about job opportunities, relocation incentives, and what makes Smith County the perfect place to live and work.
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