Why Sterling?
Sterling is where small town charm meets big opportunity. Our visitors and residents already know what makes Sterling an exceptional community. For those who haven't had the opportunity to get to know our city yet, allow us to show you why "the quality-of-life shines" in Sterling!
Vibrant downtown
Nothing better demonstrates our resident's high standards for their city than our vibrant downtown. A trip down Broadway Avenue reveals the competitive spirit and geniality of our people. From the headquarters of regional enterprises to essential goods and services, boutiques, cafes, coffee shops and more, downtown is the heart of commerce and camaraderie in Sterling. The Sterling Chamber of Commerce/Main Street Sterling helps promote many of our downtown businesses and sponsors different event for business owners and the community.
Economic opportunity
Sterling is prides itself on being able to provide economic stability and entrepreneurial opportunity. As a net importer of jobs, Sterling sustains an economy that punches above its weight and employs 73% more people than its population. The city serves as the headquarters for several businesses with national and global reach, including the Central Prairie Co-op, Hyatt Life Sciences, KMW and Jacam Catalyst, many of which were founded in Sterling. Homegrown success stories of businesses with roots in Sterling are a testament to the entrepreneurial spirit of the community. John S. Dillon, the founder of Dillons grocery chain, started selling groceries at his general store in Sterling before branching off into the grocery business. Sterling distinguishes itself as a place of economic opportunity for both business owners and workers alike.
Educational pride
Our community embraces a commitment to learning and developing the minds and bodies of its young adults and returning students. Sterling College is a Christ-centered, four-year college with an enrollment of over 600 students and an excellent student-to-faculty ratio of 9:1. The college boasts an impressive athletics department with 23 programs for men and women and a robust performing arts program. USD 376 operates an elementary, junior high and high school in the city with an enrollment of over 400 students. Sterling's K-12 education is highly regarded, and our schools rank competitively within Kansas. USD 376 has excellent extracurricular programs, and the Black Bears regularly compete for statewide championships in basketball, debate and forensics.
Dynamic tradition
Sterling prides itself on being a place where traditional values of hard work and goodwill towards others thrive alongside an excitement about the future. Events such as our renowned Old Fashioned Fourth of July exemplify our embrace of the ideals that are at the core of American prosperity. In furthering that prosperity, Sterling welcomes the opportunity for growth and change in our community. New housing is actively being developed in 2024 and local businesses are expanding their operations here. In honoring the past, we believe that our vision of the future is made clearer.