Average Rent in Elk County, KS↓ Rents falling 1.1% YoY🔻 2nd cheapest in KS
HUD FY2025 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 2,464
Market Overview
Elk County, KS has rental prices ranging from $625/month to $1,251/month in 2025, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $714/month — 49% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $56,087/year, spending $714/month on a 1-bedroom represents 15% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.
How Elk County Compares
With an average 2-bedroom rent of $872/month, Elk County ranks #95 most expensive of the 96 cities tracked in Kansas — more affordable than 86% of all US cities in our data.
The Elk County Rental Market
The Elk County, KS area has a population of about 2,464 and 22% of households renting rather than owning. That renter share runs below the US average of ~34%, a more homeowner-heavy market where rental inventory can be limited.
Rent Trends
2-bedroom rents in Elk County, KS have fallen by $10/month (1.1%) over the past year, from $882 to $872. Rents have remained relatively stable year over year, indicating a balanced rental market in the area.
Affordability
To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Elk County, KS without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $28,560. The local median household income of $56,087 exceeds that threshold by $27,527, making Elk County relatively accessible compared to local wages.
Economy & Jobs
Elk County, KS has an unemployment rate of 5.5%, 1.6 percentage points above the national average of 3.9%. A higher unemployment rate can moderate rental demand over time, which may help keep rent growth in check compared to tighter job markets.
Fair Market Rents
HUD FY2025Is Elk County, KS Affordable?
Income needed to rent or buy, price history, and how this city compares to nearby metros.
Affordability Index(30% income rule)
Nearby Cities in KSlargest metros in the state
| City | Studio | 1BR | 2BR | 3BR | Home Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kansas City | $1,074 | $1,183 | $1,346 | $1,756 | — |
| Wichita | $690 | $760 | $995 | $1,305 | — |
| Topeka | $747 | $752 | $985 | $1,280 | — |
| Geary County | $753 | $758 | $994 | $1,393 | — |
| Manhattan | $808 | $813 | $995 | $1,359 | — |
| St. Joseph | $710 | $789 | $1,035 | $1,315 | — |
Rent or Buy in Elk County?
Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.
Should I Rent or Buy?
Break-even analysis using real Elk County data
Renting appears to be the better financial choice for this scenario.
Living in Elk County
Cost of living, job market, crime rates, and moving cost estimates.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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Compare rent & home prices by neighborhood
💵Rent Affordability in Elk CountySalary needed to afford rent here
🗺️All Cities in KSSee how Elk County ranks statewide
⚖️Compare Elk CountySide-by-side rent & cost of living with any city
📋KS Tenant RightsDeposit limits, eviction laws & renters protections