Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Arkansas City, KS
Considering a move to Arkansas City, KS? This friendly community of about 11,770 residents offers an affordable cost of living, with median home prices at just $76,000 and average rents around $700. Enjoy short commutes averaging 15 minutes, more sunny days than the national average, and access to local healthcare and education at Cowley College. While property crime rates are higher than average, Arkansas City’s small-town charm and budget-friendly lifestyle make it a practical choice for those seeking value in housing and day-to-day expenses.
Demographics - Arkansas City, KS
Demographics - Arkansas City, KS
Arkansas City is home to approximately 11,770 residents, with a median age of 36.1 years and a balanced gender ratio. The population is predominantly White, with 7.5% speaking a language other than English at home, reflecting a modest level of diversity. Its population density and demographic structure provide a small-town feel with a strong sense of community.
Population:
11,770
Density:
1,200 per sq mi
Median Age:
36.1
Gender Ratio:
96 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
7.5%

Ethnic Composition
White:
83.1%
Black:
2.6%
Asian:
0.6%
Others:
13.7%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Arkansas City, KS?
The cost of living in Arkansas City is notably affordable, with a cost of living index of 78.5, well below the national average. Median home values are around $76,000 and typical rents average $700, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and families. Utility costs and other expenses remain low, contributing to the city’s overall affordability.
Median House Value:
$76,000
Gross Rent:
$700
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$130
Auto Insurance:
$1,200
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$950
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$350
State Taxes:
Low:
3.1%
|
High:
5.7%
Cost Of Living Index:
78.5
Grocery:
90.4
Housing:
58.2
Utilities:
97.3
Transportation:
92.5
Health Care:
95.0
Miscellaneous:
89.1
Crime
Is Arkansas City, KS a safe place to live?
Arkansas City experiences higher-than-average property crime, with a property crime rate of 2,208 incidents per 100,000 residents and a 1 in 45 chance of being affected. Violent crime is less common, with a rate of 397 per 100,000, or a 1 in 252 chance. Residents should be mindful of safety precautions, especially regarding property.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
397
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,208
Crime Index:
2,605
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 252
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 45
Weather
What is the weather like in Arkansas City, KS year-round?
Residents enjoy four distinct seasons, with hot summers reaching highs of 94°F and mild winters with lows around 22°F. The city receives about 36 inches of rainfall annually and experiences sunshine about 63% of the year. This climate offers a mix of outdoor opportunities throughout the year.

Winter
Min:
22°F
Max:
46°F

Spring
Min:
43°F
Max:
70°F

Summer
Min:
67°F
Max:
94°F

Fall
Min:
45°F
Max:
73°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
36.1 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
63%
Neighbors
Median household income in Arkansas City is $44,121, with a poverty rate of 20.2%, reflecting economic diversity in the community. Most adults have completed high school, and commute times are short at just over 15 minutes. The area is characterized by a working-class population and a low rate of public transportation use.
Median Income:
$28,500
Household Income:
$44,121
Family Income:
$61,000
Per Capita Income:
$22,140
Income Male:
$37,900
Income Female:
$28,900
Poverty Rate:
20.2%
Non English Speakers:
7.5%
Rent:
$700
Unemployment Rate:
4.2%
Public Transport Usage:
0.3%
Commute Time:
15.2 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
87.2%
Bachelors or More:
16.2%
Education
How are the schools in Arkansas City, KS?
Arkansas City offers a range of educational opportunities, with public schools like Arkansas City High School and Roosevelt Elementary, as well as private options and Cowley College located in town. Student-to-teacher ratios in local schools are favorable, supporting personalized instruction. The presence of a local college enhances higher education access for residents.

Public Schools
Name:
Arkansas City High School
Street:
1200 W Radio Ln
Phone:
620-441-2010
Students:
720
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.6
Name:
Roosevelt Elementary School
Street:
501 N 3rd St
Phone:
620-441-2050
Students:
330
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.5

Private Schools
Name:
Trinity Lutheran School
Street:
523 N 5th St
Phone:
620-442-0559
Students:
80

Colleges
Name:
Cowley College
City:
Arkansas City
State:
KS
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
3,500
Healthcare
Arkansas City provides access to local healthcare through the South Central Kansas Medical Center, which offers emergency services. There are 1.7 physicians per 1,000 residents, and nearly 90% of the population has health insurance coverage. The healthcare index of 79.2 indicates accessible and reliable medical services for residents.

Major Hospitals
Name:
South Central Kansas Medical Center
Address:
6401 Patterson Pkwy, Arkansas City, KS 67005
Phone:
(620) 442-2500
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.7
Health Insurance Coverage:
89.6%
Health Care Index:
79.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Arkansas City, KS?
The housing market in Arkansas City is highly affordable, with a median home price of $76,000 and average rent for a two-bedroom apartment at $700. Owner-occupancy rates are close to 59%, and the area has a healthy 5.2% annual home appreciation rate. Rental vacancy and foreclosure rates remain low, making the market stable for buyers and renters alike.
Median Home Price:
$76,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$700
Owner Occupied Rate:
58.9%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
9.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
5.2%
New Construction Rate:
0.4%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Vehicle services for Arkansas City residents are managed by the Kansas Department of Revenue’s Division of Vehicles. Local residents can access licensing and registration support via the state office in Topeka, through their website or by phone for convenience. Kansas offers a straightforward process for drivers and vehicle owners.
State:
Kansas
Department:
Kansas Department of Revenue – Division of Vehicles
Address:
300 W. 10th St, Topeka, KS 66612
Phone:
785-296-3963
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.