Cost of Living in Elk County, Kansas
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Elk County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Elk County, Kansas
Elk County rents remain remarkably affordable
At 11.4%, Elk County's rent-to-income ratio sits nearly 3 percentage points below the national benchmark and ranks among Kansas's most affordable rental markets. Residents here spend roughly $534 monthly on rent, well below the national trajectory while earning a median of $56,087—proving that lower incomes don't necessarily mean housing stress in rural Kansas.
Best rental affordability in Kansas
Elk County ranks at the top of Kansas for housing affordability, with a rent-to-income ratio of 11.4% compared to the state average of 14.7%. This advantage stems from both modest rents ($534/month vs. $787 statewide) and a cost-of-living ecosystem that matches local wages.
Elk County outpaces regional peers
Elk County's $534 monthly rent is the lowest among its peers, undercutting Ellsworth County ($705), Gove County ($730), and Ellsworth County by $100-200 monthly. Even homebuyers find stability here: the median home value of $60,900 is less than half that of neighboring Ellis County ($211,100).
Housing takes modest slice of income
Renters dedicate 11.4% of income to rent ($534/month), while homeowners pay $567 monthly—both comfortably below the 30% affordability threshold. Combined with a $56,087 median household income, Elk County residents have room to build savings and manage unexpected expenses.
Remote workers, consider Elk County
If you're weighing rural Kansas options, Elk County offers the state's most affordable housing foundation. Compare this stability to pricier neighbors like Ellis County (rent-to-income: 18.0%) or Geary County (23.4%)—your paycheck stretches further here.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Elk County
Rent Burden
11.4%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,309
per month
Owner Cost Burden
12.1%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Elk County
Median home value is $60,900. Estimated monthly cost: $486 vs. your max of $1,309.
Rent Affordability Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
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See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.