Elk City, KS
Population 281 · Kansas
About Elk City, KS
Elk City is a small community located in Kansas with a population of 281 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $35,417 per year, which is 53% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 46 years is notably older the US median age of 38.9 years, suggesting a more established community with a higher proportion of long-term residents.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Elk City features a median home value of $22,300, which is 91% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Elk City one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $921, 21% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 137 total housing units, 78% are owner-occupied (69 units) and 22% are renter-occupied (20 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Elk City shows an unemployment rate of 10.9%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 26.7%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Elk City have an average one-way commute time of 21.8 minutes.
Education & Demographics
13.7% of Elk City residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The lower educational attainment rate may reflect the area's industry mix, with more employment in trades, manufacturing, or agricultural sectors. The community's demographic composition includes 4.3% White, 9.6% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 4.6% of the population being foreign-born.
How Elk City Ranks in Kansas
Cost of Living in Elk City, KS
Compared to national averages, Elk City has a median household income of $35,417 (53% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $22,300, which is 91% below the national median. Monthly rent at $921 is 21% below the US average of $1,163. Within Kansas, Elk City's income is 45% below the state average of $63,989, and home values are 80% below the state median of $113,913.
Why Live in Elk City, KS?
Elk City offers affordable housing with a median home value of $22,300, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $921/month, and short commute times averaging just 21.8 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($35,417) that falls below the national average. However, Elk City’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Elk City has a population of 281 with a median age of 46 years. Compare Elk City with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Kansas.
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Cities in Kansas with a similar population size.
Demographics
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Economy & Education
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Other Cities in Kansas
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Elk City
What is the population of Elk City, KS?
The population of Elk City, KS is 281 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small community in Kansas.
What is the median household income in Elk City?
The median household income in Elk City, KS is $35,417 per year, which is 53% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Elk City?
The median home value in Elk City, KS is $22,300, which is 91% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Elk City?
The median monthly rent in Elk City, KS is $921, which is 21% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Elk City?
The unemployment rate in Elk City, KS is 10.9%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Elk City, KS a good place to live?
Elk City offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 281 and a median age of 46, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Elk City, KS?
13.7% of residents in Elk City aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The educational profile reflects the area's industry mix and employment landscape.
What is the cost of living in Elk City?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Elk City, KS: median home value is $22,300 (91% below national), median rent is $921/month, and median household income is $35,417. The home-value-to-income ratio is 0.6x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Elk City?
The poverty rate in Elk City, KS is 26.7%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. Residents and prospective movers should be aware of the economic challenges facing parts of this community.
How diverse is Elk City, KS?
Elk City's population is 4.3% White, 9.6% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 4.6% of residents are foreign-born.