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
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Elk County ranks #1,632 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 48%)
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.
Cost of Living Advisory: Elk County
Affordability Verdict
Elk County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $534/month representing approximately 11.4% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 22.0%.
Rent vs. Own
At $534/month rent versus $567/month in owner costs, renting is roughly $33/month cheaper — a 6% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $21,360/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $24,300/year. With a median household income of $56,087, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 22.0% of renter households in Elk County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Elk County sits 10% less expensive than Jewell County ($591/month) in terms of median gross rent.
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
Income Needed Calculator
See how much you need to earn to comfortably afford housing
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
Based on the 30% rule for rent and 28% rule for housing costs (mortgage + owner costs). Mortgage estimate assumes 20% down, 7.2% interest, 30-year fixed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Elk County, Kansas?
What is the median rent in Elk County?
Is Elk County affordable?
How does Elk County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Elk County?
Counties with Similar Housing Costs
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Elk County, Kansas? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCompare Mortgage Rates in Elk County
Whether you're buying your first home or refinancing, compare rates from top lenders to find the best deal.
See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.
CostByCounty participates in affiliate programs. We may earn a commission when you use our links, at no extra cost to you.