Emporia, KS
Population 24,098 · Kansas
About Emporia, KS
Emporia is a mid-sized city in Kansas with a population of 24,098 residents. The median household income is $52,787 per year, which is near the national average. The median age in Emporia is 30.2 years.
Housing in Emporia has a median home value of $127,500 and median monthly rent of $793. Of the 11,441 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 5,105 owner-occupied and 5,104 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Emporia is 2.9% and the poverty rate is 18.4%. 25.8% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 12.4 minutes.
How Emporia Ranks in Kansas
Cost of Living in Emporia, KS
Compared to national averages, Emporia has a median household income of $52,787 (30% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $127,500, which is 48% below the national median. Monthly rent at $793 is 32% below the US average of $1,163. Within Kansas, Emporia's income is 18% below the state average of $63,989, and home values are 12% above the state median of $113,913.
Why Live in Emporia, KS?
Emporia offers affordable housing with a median home value of $127,500, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $793/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 2.9%. Additionally, the city features short commute times averaging just 12.4 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($52,787) that falls below the national average. However, Emporia’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Emporia has a population of 24,098 with a median age of 30.2 years. Compare Emporia with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Kansas.
Similar Cities Near Emporia
Cities in Kansas with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gardner | 24,020 | $92,579 | $276,000 | Compare |
| Prairie Village | 22,937 | $107,664 | $402,600 | Compare |
| Junction City | 22,431 | $60,317 | $162,500 | Compare |
| Derby | 25,801 | $82,089 | $221,600 | Compare |
| Hays | 21,078 | $56,861 | $220,100 | Compare |
| Pittsburg | 20,606 | $40,220 | $110,800 | Compare |
| Dodge City | 27,652 | $67,958 | $122,800 | Compare |
| Garden City | 27,781 | $72,511 | $186,200 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
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 Emporia
What is the population of Emporia, KS?
The population of Emporia, KS is 24,098 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Emporia?
The median household income in Emporia, KS is $52,787 per year.
What is the median home value in Emporia?
The median home value in Emporia, KS is $127,500.
What is the average rent in Emporia?
The median monthly rent in Emporia, KS is $793.
What is the unemployment rate in Emporia?
The unemployment rate in Emporia, KS is 2.9%.