Cost of Living in Elkhart, KS

With a cost of living index of 59, Elkhart, KS is one of the most affordable cities in the country. Living here is 41% cheaper than the national average and 13% below the Kansas state average of 72. Elkhart is a small community of 1,732 residents.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Elkhart's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $637 (52% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $99,600 (67% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 1.5x the median household income — well within traditional affordability guidelines.

The median household income in Elkhart is $66,477, which is 12% lower than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 11% of household income on rent. This is a comfortable ratio, well below the 30% threshold that financial experts recommend as a maximum. Lower incomes here are balanced by the significantly lower cost of living, stretching each dollar further.

Climate is another factor for anyone considering a move to Elkhart. The area sees an average annual temperature of 57.6°F, with summers averaging 79°F and winters around 37°F. Annual rainfall totals 17.8 inches spread over roughly 69 days.

Data sources: US Census Bureau (ACS 2023), Zillow Home Values, HUD Fair Market Rents, BEA Regional Price Parities, BLS Average Prices, and NOAA Climate Normals. Updated monthly.