Cost of Living in Ellinwood, KS

With a cost of living index of 60, Ellinwood, KS is one of the most affordable cities in the country. Living here is 40% cheaper than the national average and 11% below the Kansas state average of 72. Ellinwood is a small community of 2,117 residents.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Ellinwood's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $702 (47% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $94,800 (69% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 1.7x the median household income — well within traditional affordability guidelines.

The median household income in Ellinwood is $55,332, which is 26% lower than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 15% 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 Ellinwood. The area sees an average annual temperature of 54.8°F, with summers averaging 78°F and winters around 32°F. Annual rainfall totals 24.8 inches spread over roughly 83 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.