Kansas City Chiefs Move to Kansas City, Kansas

Photo by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey

The Kansas City Chiefs are officially departing from their long-time home at Arrowhead Stadium in Missouri to build a new, state-of-the-art $3 billion fixed-domed stadium in Wyandotte County, Kansas. This major decision was announced on December 22, 2025, after Kansas lawmakers approved a significant tax incentive package to facilitate the move. The new venue is expected to be ready by the 2031 NFL season. New details have emerged that start to lay a clearer picture of what is to come.

Reasons Behind the Move

The Chiefs' decision to relocate is largely driven by financial incentives. Kansas is prepared to contribute a substantial portion of funding through STAR bonds, which are intended to support economic development without burdening taxpayers directly. This funding model will cover approximately 70 percent of the stadium's construction costs.

Missouri had attempted to keep the team by proposing funding options, but these efforts fell short after Jackson County voters rejected a sales tax extension meant to finance improvements at Arrowhead Stadium. This rejection played a crucial role in the Chiefs' decision to pursue opportunities in Kansas.

Kansas Governor Laura Kelly expressed her excitement about the move, emphasizing that it signifies Kansas's readiness to play significant roles in national events, such as the Super Bowl and various major sporting competitions.

New Developments and Community Impact

The Chiefs plan to develop a mixed-use district alongside the stadium, which aims to generate an estimated $4 billion in overall economic impact and create more than 20,000 jobs in Kansas. This new facility is not just about the team; it’s envisioned as a community hub that will provide entertainment, retail, and other amenities.

The Chiefs' new stadium will feature at least 65,000 seats, slightly fewer than Arrowhead Stadium, but equipped for modern amenities that enhance fan experiences, including luxury seating and multi-use facilities. A new training center is also planned to be situated in Olathe, Kansas, further solidifying the franchise's commitment to the region.

The Olathe City Council will vote on a key piece of the Kansas City Chiefs' plan to build a $300 million practice facility and corporate headquarters in the city at its meeting — but not before residents get a chance to weigh in. The training facility and headquarters will be located at College and Ridgeview, just off Kansas Highway 10 in western Olathe.  This site has been heavily speculated about for months. The project site sits just south of the Garmin Olathe Soccer Complex. The Olathe portion of the relocation, in total, is estimated to cost almost $1 billion. 

Response to the Announcement

While the move is seen as a victory for Kansas, it has left many in Missouri disappointed. Kansas City, Missouri, Mayor Quinton Lucas acknowledged the deep ties that Arrowhead Stadium has with the community. The stadium has been a central aspect of NFL culture in the region, known for its intense fan atmosphere and tailgating traditions.

Missouri officials, including Jackson County Executive Phil LeVota, expressed their regrets about the loss, noting that they believed they had put together a compelling offer to keep the Chiefs in Missouri. Despite this disappointment, there is an acknowledgment that the financial realities of the situation guided the Chiefs towards Kansas.

Looking Ahead

As the design and construction processes begin, the Chiefs are expected to hire an architectural firm to oversee the stadium's creation. This planning phase could take up to 18 months, with construction anticipated to last roughly three years. The franchise's commitment to a future-focused facility mirrors the vision of its late founder, Lamar Hunt, who was known for pioneering new ideas in the NFL.

Kansas's ambition to position itself as a legitimate competitor to other states in attracting sports franchises marks a notable shift in the area. This move redefines the landscape of professional football in the region and promises benefits that extend far beyond the sport.

The Chiefs' transition to Kansas highlights a significant chapter in the franchise's history, bringing monumental changes that will influence its legacy and the local economy for years to come. The Chiefs organization acknowledges the enthusiasm surrounding the project and recognizes the collaborative spirit needed to ensure its success. Both the franchise and local governments seem determined to navigate the complexities ahead, striving for a constructive partnership that benefits the team and the community alike.