Parsons is located in an area of flat plains and rolling hills in northern Labette, [LB], County. Historically, Parsons began as a railroad town and it is still a transportation hub served by the Union Pacific and highways US-59, US-400, and US-160. The city is small enough to have a strong sense of community, yet it's big enough to support an excellent school system, a community college, a fine medical center, two museums, and a wonderful park system. For metropolitan needs, Parsons has access to Kansas City, Tulsa, and Wichita, all of which are within 2 1/2 hours driving time. The local economy is based on a variety of elements: transportation, agriculture, light industry, services, and retail and wholesale distribution. Parsons is a leader in economic development in southeast Kansas and has a strong infrastructure with a diverse labor force.