Fort Riley & the Manhattan Area

Fort Riley

Manhattan and the surrounding area have a close relationship with Fort Riley. Home to the First Infantry Division, Fort Riley is located just 10 minutes west of Manhattan. The installation is easily accessible from K-18 and is a short commute.

As the thirteenth largest city in Kansas, Fort Riley serves more than 48,000 soldiers, family members, retirees and Department of the Army civilians. Over 2,500 soldiers and DOD civilians live off-post in Manhattan and Riley County.

Economic Contribution

In fiscal year 2020, Fort Riley's total economic impact on the state was more than $1.8 billion. With the generally accepted Congressional Budget Office (CBO) economic multiplier of $2.2 for every $1 of direct expenditures, Fort Riley's full economic impact would be more than $3.9 billion. Much of that impact was felt right here in Manhattan.

Fort Riley's Regional Impact

Fort Riley's presence positively impacts the entire region and advances economic development by virtue of providing infrastructure requirements such as enhanced airport facilities and improved highways and access routes. Our military families also bring a wealth of experience and knowledge to both our workforce and our community.

Interactive Visitors Guide

Did you just get orders to Fort Riley? Are you eager to get your first glimpse of everything Manhattan has to offer your family? View the Visitors Guide. We think you will like it, and be able to get a first taste of the Little Apple. Click on participating advertisers to link through to their website.

Live, Play, Shop

For those choosing to live or shop off-post, Manhattan is the premier destination for settling into your new home. Look no further - we have shopping, restaurants, and recreational opportunities to keep you busy! Why not choose to work, live, and play in your back yard? You won't regret coming to Manhattan!

Area employers are eager to select from the pool of available spouses and support numerous workforce development initiatives. They also collaborate with the Fort Riley Retirement Services Office to facilitate the retirement transition to the Manhattan area.