SALINA, KS — A growing number of homebuyers in Salina are arriving from outside the region, and Aero Plains Homes is playing a key role in meeting the demand. According to recent buyer data, 21 of the 28 homes sold in the Aero Plains development were purchased by individuals from outside Saline County, including buyers from California, Texas, Nebraska, Kansas City, and Wichita.
"This level of interest from out-of-county and out-of-state buyers shows there’s a real demand for quality, attainable housing in Salina," said Derek Lee, one of the developers behind Aero Plains.
The development has proven attractive to a wide range of buyers. “We’ve had two-bedroom homes go to young professionals, couples downsizing after their kids are grown, and even retirees who want zero-entry, single-level living,” Lee explained.
He noted that the three-bedroom homes have seen a similar variety. “Those have sold to young families with kids, and also to older buyers looking for a retirement-friendly layout where everything they need is on one level, with guest quarters upstairs.”
Lee said one of the most frequent pieces of feedback is that “for any stage of life, there’s a floor plan that fits.” The affordability has drawn particular attention from out-of-state buyers. In one instance, a buyer from California reportedly asked if the $199,000 price was for fractional ownership, underscoring the difference in cost of living compared to more expensive housing markets.
Mayor Greg Lenkiewicz emphasized the importance of the AeroPlains project in addressing local housing needs.
“The AeroPlains development is a significant and integral part of the workforce housing solution in the Salina area. Its location is ideally situated near substantial local economic and job growth, making it a valuable and welcome addition to our community,” Lenkiewicz said.
Salina continues to face a shortage of affordable and workforce housing options, a challenge that has grown alongside recent business expansions and job creation efforts. Developments like AeroPlains are seen as critical to ensuring the city can attract and retain a stable workforce.
Renee Duxler, President and CEO of the Salina Area Chamber of Commerce, emphasized the broader economic importance of housing developments like Aero Plains.
“Salina has faced the challenges of brain drain and a constrained labor market for decades—and our recent surge in economic development and jobs creation has only intensified the pressure. Each month, we consistently see labor data that shows less than 800 unemployed individuals in Saline County, yet there are between 2,000 and 2,500 unique job postings. The urgency to attract a skilled workforce has never been greater—and housing plays a pivotal role in that effort. Expanding and diversifying our housing inventory is essential, and the Aero Plains development stands out as a strong example of how we can meet the growing need and support the future of our community.”
With buyers arriving from across the region and the country, Aero Plains Homes is positioning itself not only as a residential development but as a vital component in Salina’s long-term strategy to expand its workforce and attract new residents.
Check available homes at AeroPlainsKS.com