Average Rent in Ellis County, KS↓ Rents falling 3.5% YoY
HUD FY2025 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 28,870
Market Overview
Ellis County, KS has rental prices ranging from $627/month to $1,535/month in 2025, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $697/month — 50% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $59,889/year, spending $697/month on a 1-bedroom represents 14% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.
How Ellis County Compares
With an average 2-bedroom rent of $914/month, Ellis County ranks #20 most expensive of the 96 cities tracked in Kansas — more affordable than 66% of all US cities in our data.
The Ellis County Rental Market
The Ellis County, KS area has a population of about 28,870 and 38% of households renting rather than owning. That is close to the US average renter share of ~34%.
Rent Trends
2-bedroom rents in Ellis County, KS have fallen by $33/month (3.5%) over the past year, from $947 to $914. This slight decline is consistent with broader market corrections seen across US rental markets.
Affordability
To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Ellis County, KS without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $27,880. The local median household income of $59,889 exceeds that threshold by $32,009, making Ellis County relatively accessible compared to local wages.
Economy & Jobs
Ellis County, KS has an unemployment rate of 3.6%, 0.3 percentage points below the national average of 3.9%. Strong employment conditions typically sustain rental demand, as workers relocate to the area and local residents maintain stable housing.
Fair Market Rents
HUD FY2025Is Ellis 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 Ellis County?
Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.
Should I Rent or Buy?
Break-even analysis using real Ellis County data
Renting appears to be the better financial choice for this scenario.
Living in Ellis 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 Ellis CountySalary needed to afford rent here
🗺️All Cities in KSSee how Ellis County ranks statewide
⚖️Compare Ellis CountySide-by-side rent & cost of living with any city
📋KS Tenant RightsDeposit limits, eviction laws & renters protections