Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Elk Falls, KS
Considering a move to Elk Falls, KS? This peaceful town of just 88 residents offers an affordable lifestyle, with median home prices around $46,000 and rents near $650. Residents enjoy low cost of living, short 22-minute commutes, and a quiet rural setting. While crime rates are in line with rural Kansas averages, the area features good public schools, friendly neighbors, and plenty of sunny days. Elk Falls is perfect for those seeking small-town charm and budget-friendly living.
Demographics - Elk Falls, KS
Demographics - Elk Falls, KS
Elk Falls is a close-knit rural town with a population of just 88 and a median age of 54, reflecting a mature and settled community. The area is predominantly White, and nearly everyone speaks English, fostering a familiar small-town atmosphere. Its low population density makes it an appealing choice for those seeking peace and space.
Population:
88
Density:
107 per sq mi
Median Age:
54.0
Gender Ratio:
98 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
2.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
94.0%
Black:
0.0%
Asian:
0.0%
Others:
6.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Elk Falls, KS?
Living in Elk Falls is highly affordable, with a median home value of $46,000 and rents averaging $650, both well below national averages. Utility costs and day-to-day expenses remain manageable, contributing to a cost of living index of 76.2. This makes Elk Falls ideal for budget-conscious residents or retirees.
Median House Value:
$46,000
Gross Rent:
$650
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$115
Auto Insurance:
$1,180
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$690
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$280
State Taxes:
Low:
3.1%
|
High:
5.7%
Cost Of Living Index:
76.2
Grocery:
94.7
Housing:
39.8
Utilities:
102.1
Transportation:
81.4
Health Care:
97.3
Miscellaneous:
89.2
Crime
Is Elk Falls, KS a safe place to live?
Crime rates in Elk Falls are typical for rural Kansas, with a chance of violent crime at 1 in 476 and property crime at 1 in 60. While the overall crime index is moderate, residents generally enjoy a sense of safety and a close community environment. It remains a peaceful place for families and retirees.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
210
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,670
Crime Index:
1,880
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 476
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 60
Weather
What is the weather like in Elk Falls, KS year-round?
Elk Falls experiences four distinct seasons, with warm summers reaching highs near 92°F and mild winters with lows around 21°F. The area sees about 37 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine 62% of the year. These weather patterns support outdoor activities throughout much of the year.
Winter
Min:
21°F
Max:
43°F
Spring
Min:
44°F
Max:
70°F
Summer
Min:
67°F
Max:
92°F
Fall
Min:
47°F
Max:
73°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
37 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
62%
Neighbors
Residents of Elk Falls typically earn a median household income of $34,000, and about 88% have at least a high school education. The community has a low unemployment rate and average commute times of 22.5 minutes, supporting a relaxed rural lifestyle. A poverty rate of 17.5% reflects some economic challenges but also a supportive, small-town network.
Median Income:
$28,500
Household Income:
$34,000
Family Income:
$44,000
Per Capita Income:
$19,800
Income Male:
$28,700
Income Female:
$23,600
Poverty Rate:
17.5%
Non English Speakers:
2.5%
Rent:
$650
Unemployment Rate:
4.1%
Public Transport Usage:
0.0%
Commute Time:
22.5 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
88.0%
Bachelors or More:
16.0%
Education
How are the schools in Elk Falls, KS?
Families in Elk Falls benefit from well-rated public schools like West Elk Elementary and West Elk High School, both with favorable student-teacher ratios. While private schools are not available locally, nearby colleges such as Independence Community College and Cowley College offer accessible higher education options. The educational environment is supportive and suited to a small-town setting.
Public Schools
Name:
West Elk Elementary School
Street:
200 S. School St.
Phone:
620-374-2113
Students:
180
Student Teacher Ratio:
11.5
Name:
West Elk High School
Street:
500 W. 1st Ave, Howard, KS 67349
Phone:
620-374-2115
Students:
140
Student Teacher Ratio:
9.6
Colleges
Name:
Independence Community College
City:
Independence
State:
KS
Distance:
27 miles
Students:
1,000
Name:
Cowley College
City:
Arkansas City
State:
KS
Distance:
48 miles
Students:
2,200
Healthcare
Elk Falls residents have access to regional hospitals such as William Newton Hospital and Fredonia Regional Hospital, both offering emergency services. Healthcare coverage is strong, with over 90% insured, and there are 1.7 physicians per 1,000 residents. Overall, basic healthcare needs are met within a reasonable distance.
Major Hospitals
Name:
William Newton Hospital
Address:
1300 E 5th Ave, Winfield, KS 67156
Phone:
(620) 221-2300
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Fredonia Regional Hospital
Address:
1527 Madison St, Fredonia, KS 66736
Phone:
(620) 378-2121
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.7
Health Insurance Coverage:
90.2%
Health Care Index:
67.3
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Elk Falls, KS?
The Elk Falls housing market offers excellent value, with median home prices at just $46,000 and an owner-occupancy rate of 83%. Rental opportunities exist but are limited, reflected by an 8.5% vacancy rate. Modest home appreciation and low foreclosure rates make it a stable option for long-term residents.
Median Home Price:
$46,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$650
Owner Occupied Rate:
83.0%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
8.5%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
2.3%
New Construction Rate:
0.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
For vehicle registration and licensing, residents are served by the Kansas Department of Revenue - Division of Vehicles, based in Topeka. The department provides comprehensive online and in-person services to meet all driver and vehicle needs. Its website offers convenient access to forms and information for Elk Falls residents.
State:
Kansas
Department:
Kansas Department of Revenue - Division of Vehicles
Address:
915 SW Harrison St, Room 150, Topeka, KS 66612
Phone:
785-296-3621
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.