Note the 10 year population trend.

Most of Emporia's businesses are small businesses. These businesses need more attention and resources to grow.

Notice that Emporia's median household income is 13% below the rest of Lyon County, 30% below the State of Kansas, and 36% below the rest of the nation.

Notice the discrepancy between median household income and average household spending. It costs more to live in Emporia than people are making.