Parsons is located in an area of flat plains and rolling hills in northern Labette, County. Historically, Parsons began as a railroad town and it is still a transportation hub served by the Union Pacific and highways US-59 and US-400.

The city is small enough to have a strong sense of community, yet it's big enough to support an excellent school system, a community college, a fine medical center, two museums, and a wonderful park system. For metropolitan needs, Parsons has access to Kansas City, Tulsa, and Wichita, all of which are within 2½ hours driving time.