Cost of Living in Ellsworth County, Kansas
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Ellsworth County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Ellsworth County ranks #1,345 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 43%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Ellsworth County, Kansas
Ellsworth County balances income and housing
At 12.7%, Ellsworth County's rent-to-income ratio sits below both the national average and Kansas state mean, signaling solid housing affordability. With rents at $705 monthly and a $66,792 median household income—higher than rural peers—residents enjoy a sustainable balance.
Among Kansas's most affordable counties
Ellsworth County ranks well above the Kansas median for affordability, with a 12.7% rent-to-income ratio versus the state average of 14.7%. This advantage comes from both competitive rents ($705/month vs. $787 statewide) and a stronger median household income of $66,792.
Ellsworth offers mid-range pricing
Ellsworth County's $705 rent falls between Elk County's bargain $534 and pricier Ellis County at $899, making it a balanced option. Home values of $116,300 remain moderate compared to Ellis County ($211,100) but exceed Elk County's $60,900, reflecting Ellsworth's stronger economic position.
Manageable housing burden for families
Renters spend 12.7% of income on housing, while homeowners pay $807 monthly—both well within comfortable thresholds. On a $66,792 median income, Ellsworth County households retain substantial purchasing power for savings, childcare, and other priorities.
Ellsworth County suits balanced seekers
Ellsworth County offers a sweet spot: rents are $60 cheaper than Ellis County but still higher than rural options like Elk, and incomes support both renters and homeowners. If you want small-town Kansas without extreme affordability constraints, compare Ellsworth to its pricier neighbors before deciding.
Cost of Living Advisory: Ellsworth County
Affordability Verdict
Housing in Ellsworth County is affordable. The median rent is $705/month against a median household income of $66,792, putting rent at 12.7% of income.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Ellsworth County pay $705/month on average, compared to $807/month for homeowners. This market favors renters by about 13%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $28,200/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $34,586/year. With a median household income of $66,792, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 22.0% of renter households in Ellsworth County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Atchison County where rent averages $756/month, Ellsworth County is approximately 7% less expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Ellsworth County
Rent Burden
12.7%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,558
per month
Owner Cost Burden
14.5%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Ellsworth County
Median home value is $116,300. Estimated monthly cost: $928 vs. your max of $1,558.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
See how much you need to earn to comfortably afford housing
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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
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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.
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