Community Guide · Wingman Real Estate — The Shopper Team · Brokered by REAL Broker, LLC
Living in Olathe, Kansas
Olathe is the county seat of Johnson County and the fourth-most populous city in both Kansas and the Kansas City metropolitan area. Founded in 1857 — its name comes from a Shawnee word said to mean “beautiful” — Olathe grew from a stop on the Oregon, California, and Santa Fe trails into one of the metro’s largest suburban cities, with the U.S. Census Bureau estimating 150,025 residents as of July 1, 2025. Positioned along Interstate 35 in the southwest metro, it combines a major employment base with a short average commute.
150,025
Population (2025 est.)
$114,009
Median household income
$364,700
Median home value
Figures: U.S. Census Bureau QuickFacts, Olathe city, Kansas (population estimate July 1, 2025; income, home value, homeownership, commute, and education 2020–2024).
Schools
Most of Olathe is served by Olathe Public Schools (USD 233), one of the largest districts in Kansas, enrolling about 30,000 students across roughly 35 elementary schools, 10 middle schools, and five comprehensive high schools: Olathe North, Olathe South, Olathe East, Olathe Northwest, and Olathe West. Higher education in the city includes MidAmerica Nazarene University, and Olathe is also home to the Kansas School for the Deaf. Attendance boundaries vary by address — we’re happy to confirm the schools tied to any specific home.
Working in Olathe
Olathe has a deep local job base anchored by Garmin International, which is headquartered in the city and is its largest private employer. Other major employers include Olathe Public Schools, Olathe Health, Johnson County government, Farmers Insurance, TransAm Trucking, and Honeywell Aerospace, with companies such as Husqvarna and ALDI also operating locally. The Johnson County Executive Airport and the FAA’s Kansas City air-route traffic control center add to the city’s aviation presence.
Parks & Things to Do
Outdoor space is a hallmark of Olathe. Lake Olathe (about 172 acres) offers a beach, trails, and boating, while Cedar Lake (about 45 acres) and Black Bob Park add more trails and recreation close to home. History buffs can visit the Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop & Farm, a former Santa Fe Trail resupply point and the only remaining stagecoach stop of its kind still open to the public, with living-history programs throughout the year.
Olathe Real Estate
Olathe’s housing stock spans established mid-century neighborhoods, mature subdivisions, and newer construction on the city’s growing western and southern edges. With a median owner-occupied home value of $364,700 and a homeownership rate near 75% (U.S. Census Bureau, 2020–2024), it draws a wide range of buyers — from first homes to move-up and new-build. Explore what’s on the market right now below.
Olathe Questions People Ask
Frequently Asked
What is the population of Olathe, Kansas?
Olathe is the county seat of Johnson County and the fourth-most populous city in both Kansas and the Kansas City metro. The U.S. Census Bureau estimated its population at 150,025 as of July 1, 2025.
How much do homes cost in Olathe?
Per the U.S. Census Bureau (2020–2024), the median value of owner-occupied homes in Olathe is $364,700, with a homeownership rate of 74.8%. Actual prices range widely by neighborhood, age, and size — search current Olathe listings for live pricing.
What school district serves Olathe?
Most of Olathe is served by Olathe Public Schools (USD 233), which enrolls about 30,000 students across roughly 35 elementary, 10 middle, and 5 high schools — Olathe North, Olathe South, Olathe East, Olathe Northwest, and Olathe West.
Who are the largest employers in Olathe?
Garmin International is headquartered in Olathe and is its largest employer, alongside Olathe Public Schools, Olathe Health, Johnson County government, Farmers Insurance, and Honeywell, among others.
How far is Olathe from Kansas City?
Olathe sits along Interstate 35 in the southwest Kansas City metro. The Census Bureau reports a mean commute time of about 20.6 minutes for Olathe workers.
Sources: U.S. Census Bureau QuickFacts (Olathe city, Kansas); City of Olathe; Olathe Public Schools USD 233. Information is deemed reliable but should be independently verified. Equal Housing Opportunity.
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