Lawrence KS

Lawrence, KS – A vibrant college town nestled along the banks of the Kansas River, Lawrence blends small-town charm with a big heart for arts, music, and community. Home to the University of Kansas, this historic city thrives on creativity, local pride, and Jayhawk spirit. Whether you're strolling down Massachusetts Street, catching a live show, or enjoying the scenic nature trails, Lawrence welcomes you with warmth and character.

• Population: ~95,000
• Weather: Four distinct seasons; warm summers (70-90°F), brisk winters (20-40°F), blooming springs, and colorful autumns.
• Places To Visit: University of Kansas campus, downtown Mass Street, Spencer Museum of Art, Clinton Lake, Watkins Museum of History.
• Top Activities: Attending KU basketball games, enjoying local coffee shops, kayaking on the river, browsing farmer's markets, and exploring indie galleries.
• Famous Food: Artisanal pizza at Limestone, burgers from The Burger Stand, bakery treats at Wheatfields, and craft brews from Free State Brewing Company.

Lawrence, Kansas is a dynamic college town known for its strong education, healthcare, and technology sectors. With the presence of the University of Kansas and a growing economy, job seekers can find career opportunities in a range of industries. Here are the most in-demand jobs in Lawrence, KS.

Top 5 Jobs in Lawrence, KS

Lawrence, KS is a vibrant college town with plenty of great places for students to chill, relax, and have a good time. Whether you're into arts, music, or just lounging around, there's something for everyone in this lively city.

Massachusetts Street (Mass Street) – The heart of downtown Lawrence, Mass Street is lined with eclectic shops, cozy cafés, and awesome restaurants. It's the perfect place to explore with friends, grab a coffee, or catch a live band at one of the many venues.

Kansas Union – Located on the University of Kansas campus, the Union offers various study lounges, dining options, and even bowling! It's a convenient spot for students to unwind between classes or engage in campus activities.

The Bottleneck – Known for its live music scene, The Bottleneck is a must-visit for music lovers. This iconic venue hosts a range of artists and genres, providing a great way to enjoy a night out with friends.

Clinton Lake – Just a short drive from the city, Clinton Lake is a beautiful spot for outdoor activities. Whether you want to hike, paddleboard, or have a picnic, it's a fantastic way to recharge in nature.

South Park – This charming park is a great place for students to relax, read a book, or just enjoy a sunny day. With its open green space and community events, it's a staple for local gatherings and festivities.

The Jayhawk Café (The Hawk) – A favorite among university students, The Hawk is known for its lively atmosphere and affordable drinks. It's the perfect spot to socialize and make new friends.

Lawrence Arts Center – For those interested in arts and culture, the Lawrence Arts Center offers exhibitions, performances, and workshops. It's a hub of creativity and a wonderful place to get inspired or simply enjoy the local talent.

Lawrence, Kansas is a vibrant college town that offers a rich blend of academic excellence, innovative research, and student-centered opportunities. Known for its welcoming community and cultural scene, Lawrence is home to some of the best educational institutions in the state.

Top Public Colleges & Universities in Lawrence

University of Kansas (KU) – As the flagship public research university in the state, KU is known for its top-ranked programs in pharmacy, engineering, education, and public administration. With a large and diverse student body, KU offers more than 400 degree programs and continues to lead in innovation and research.

Haskell Indian Nations University – A federally operated tribal university, Haskell offers associate and bachelor’s degrees for Native American students from tribes across the United States. It is nationally recognized for its commitment to Native culture, community service, and academic success.

Peaslee Tech (Peaslee Technical Training Center) – A public technical school that serves Lawrence and the surrounding region, Peaslee Tech provides high-quality vocational and workforce training in manufacturing, healthcare, automotive technology, and HVAC systems. It works closely with local industries to ensure relevant and in-demand skill development.

Lawrence College and Career Center – A part of the Lawrence Public Schools system, this center offers high school students the opportunity to earn college credit and certifications in various career and technical pathways, including business, engineering, and health sciences.

Johnson County Community College (Satellite Programs in Lawrence) – While headquartered in Overland Park, JCCC occasionally offers programs and partnerships in Lawrence. It is one of the state’s premier community colleges known for workforce development and transfer programs.

Top Private Colleges & Universities in Lawrence

Baker University (School of Nursing - Lawrence Campus) – While its main campus is in Baldwin City, just south of Lawrence, Baker University operates a respected School of Nursing in partnership with Stormont Vail Health in Lawrence. It provides high-quality nursing education that prepares graduates for in-demand healthcare careers.

MidAmerica Nazarene University (Extended Learning Programs) – This private Christian university offers some of its adult and graduate education programs in the Lawrence area through hybrid and satellite learning options. Known for its values-driven education, MNU focuses on teacher education, counseling, and business leadership.

Grand Canyon University (Online Programs for Lawrence Students) – Though based in Arizona, GCU offers extensive online courses that are popular among Lawrence residents seeking flexible degree options in education, business, and healthcare. It is a private Christian university that supports working adults and non-traditional students.

Ottawa University (Extended Education Programs) – With a history rooted in Kansas, Ottawa University provides adult and graduate learners in Lawrence with flexible and online study opportunities in fields such as human resources, counseling, and business administration.

Saint Mary University (Outreach and Online Learning) – A private Catholic institution with main operations in Leavenworth, the University of Saint Mary extends its educational reach to Lawrence through digital and professional training programs. Its emphasis on ethical leadership and service resonates strongly with adult learners.

Lawrence, KS is known for its strong educational institutions and commitment to high-quality learning. Home to the University of Kansas, the city supports a thriving academic environment, including several excellent public and private high schools that help students succeed in college and future careers.

Top Public High Schools in Lawrence, KS

• Lawrence Free State High School – Known for its strong academics, award-winning debate team, and robust advanced placement program, Free State offers students a wide range of learning opportunities.
• Lawrence High School – One of the oldest high schools in the state, it provides diverse programs, including STEM, arts, and athletics, helping students find and pursue their passions.
• Eudora High School – Located in the nearby community of Eudora, this school offers personalized learning and a variety of college prep courses, making it an excellent choice for families in the Lawrence area.
• Perry-Lecompton High School – Just outside of Lawrence, this school is recognized for its supportive learning environment and strong community engagement.
• Baldwin High School – Serving students in the Baldwin City area, Baldwin High offers a range of academic and extracurricular programs, as well as access to college dual-credit opportunities.

Top Private High Schools in Lawrence, KS

• Bishop Seabury Academy – A college-preparatory school known for its small class sizes, engaging curriculum, and focus on character development. Students benefit from personalized attention and a strong academic foundation.
• – This faith-based school provides a Christ-centered education with a focus on academics, leadership, and community service. It serves students from kindergarten through high school.
• St. John Catholic School – Though primarily an elementary and middle school, its growing upper grades offer rigorous academics and a values-driven education experience within a close-knit faith community.
• Midland Adventist Academy (Shawnee, KS) – Located within commuting distance of Lawrence, this private Christian school offers a high-quality high school program with a strong emphasis on faith, health, and academics.
• Hyman Brand Hebrew Academy (Overland Park, KS) – Although not located directly in Lawrence, this school is a viable option for families seeking a private Jewish education with a challenging academic curriculum nearby.

Lawrence, Kansas, while best known as the home of the University of Kansas and its legendary college athletics, does not host any major professional sports franchises. However, the town boasts a deep sports culture and is located near cities that offer major league teams just a short drive away.

🏀 Basketball – No Major NBA Team in Lawrence

• There is no NBA team based in Lawrence. However, the University of Kansas Jayhawks men’s basketball team is one of the most successful programs in NCAA history, with multiple national championships and producing NBA legends like Paul Pierce, Joel Embiid, and Andrew Wiggins.
• Fans looking for professional basketball can travel to Kansas City, Missouri, just 40 miles away, although that city currently has no NBA team either. There's hope among fans for the NBA to return to the region.

⚾ Baseball – Kansas City Royals (MLB)

• Although not in Lawrence, residents often support the nearby Kansas City Royals, located about 45 minutes away. The Royals won two World Series titles — in 1985 and 2015.
• The team has seen standout players like George Brett, Salvador Pérez, and Alex Gordon, and remains a cherished team across eastern Kansas, including Lawrence.

🏈 Football – Kansas City Chiefs (NFL)

• Lawrence locals often cheer for the Kansas City Chiefs, only a short drive east. The Chiefs have become a powerful NFL team, winning three Super Bowl titles — in 1970, 2020, and 2023.
• Superstars like Patrick Mahomes, Travis Kelce, and Tyreek Hill (formerly) have turned this team into one of the league’s top franchises in recent years.

⚽ Soccer – Sporting Kansas City (MLS)

• Just outside Kansas City, Sporting Kansas City plays its home games in Kansas at Children’s Mercy Park. The MLS team is popular among soccer fans in Lawrence and has won the MLS Cup twice — in 2000 and 2013.
• The club has remained competitive and features known players like Johnny Russell and Daniel Sallói.

🏒 Hockey – No NHL Team in Lawrence

• Lawrence does not have a professional hockey team. Hockey fans often follow regional teams or watch the NHL nationally. The nearest NHL market is St. Louis, Missouri, home to the St. Louis Blues, who won their first Stanley Cup in 2019.

While Lawrence itself doesn’t have a major pro team, the town’s sports passion is undeniable. With close proximity to Kansas City, it gives residents easy access to cheer for beloved teams across multiple major sports leagues.

Lawrence, Kansas, is a lively college town with a rich past, a fun culture, and some pretty unique facts. With music, sports, and history all rolled into one, here are some fun and surprising things to know about this Midwestern gem:

1. Free State Legacy – Lawrence was founded in the 1850s by anti-slavery activists from Massachusetts and played a big part in the fight to keep Kansas a free state.
2. Home of the Jayhawks – The University of Kansas, located in Lawrence, is the birthplace of the famous “Rock Chalk Jayhawk” chant, which is known across the world of college sports.
3. Music Lover's Paradise – Lawrence has a vibrant local music scene. The famous indie rock band The Get Up Kids and others started here.
4. Hollywood Favorite – Lawrence has been featured in movies and shows like Supernatural, where it’s the hometown of the Winchester brothers.
5. Downtown Charm – Massachusetts Street, or “Mass Street,” is known as one of the most loved main streets in America, full of local shops, coffee spots, and cool old buildings.
6. Historic Quantrill’s Raid – In 1863, William Quantrill led a brutal raid on Lawrence during the Civil War, a moment that deeply shaped the city’s identity.
7. Basketball Began Here – Basketball legend James Naismith, who invented the sport, was the first coach at the University of Kansas.
8. Eco-Friendly Vibes – Lawrence is known for being green-focused, with solid recycling programs and bike-friendly streets.
9. Art and Culture Hub – From street art to galleries to the Spencer Museum of Art, Lawrence is full of creative spaces and local talent.
10. Quirky Festivals – Lawrence hosts unique annual events like the Busker Festival, where street performers from everywhere come to entertain locals and tourists.