Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Ellensburg, WA
Considering Ellensburg, WA for your next move? With a welcoming population of 20,326 and a median home price of $385,000, Ellensburg offers a small-town feel with affordable living and quick commutes averaging just 15 minutes. The city features a vibrant college-town atmosphere thanks to Central Washington University, a sunny climate with 66% sunny days, and access to quality healthcare. While property crime is above average, residents enjoy a strong sense of community, good schools, and stunning outdoor recreation nearby.
Demographics - Ellensburg, WA
Demographics - Ellensburg, WA
Ellensburg is home to roughly 20,300 residents, with a youthful median age of 24.1 reflecting its vibrant college-town atmosphere. The city is predominantly White, with a growing mix of other ethnic backgrounds and 11% of residents speaking a language other than English at home. Its moderate population density fosters a welcoming, close-knit community ideal for students and young professionals.
Population:
20,326
Density:
2,400 per sq mi
Median Age:
24.1
Gender Ratio:
96 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
11.2%
Ethnic Composition
White:
81.2%
Black:
1.3%
Asian:
2.9%
Others:
14.6%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Ellensburg, WA?
Ellensburg offers a cost of living slightly above the national average, with a median home value around $385,000 and typical rent for a two-bedroom at $1,250. Utility and transportation costs remain affordable, and Washington’s 0% state income tax helps residents keep more of their earnings. This balance makes Ellensburg attractive for those seeking value in a scenic, small-town setting.
Median House Value:
$385,000
Gross Rent:
$1,250
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$108
Auto Insurance:
$1,320
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,650
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$570
State Taxes:
Low:
0%
|
High:
0%
Cost Of Living Index:
104.5
Grocery:
102.1
Housing:
107.8
Utilities:
97.3
Transportation:
101.9
Health Care:
103.4
Miscellaneous:
101.5
Crime
Is Ellensburg, WA a safe place to live?
Ellensburg experiences a higher-than-average property crime rate, with a 1 in 47 chance, while violent crime remains comparatively low at 1 in 383. The overall crime index suggests residents should take standard precautions, but the community is generally considered safe and friendly. Many locals appreciate the peace of mind that comes with the city’s close-knit feel.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
261
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,125
Crime Index:
2,386
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 383
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 47
Weather
What is the weather like in Ellensburg, WA year-round?
Ellensburg enjoys a sunny, semi-arid climate with 66% of days seeing sunshine and only about 9 inches of annual rainfall. Winters are cold but manageable, while summers are warm and dry, making outdoor activities popular much of the year. The city’s weather is well-suited for those seeking four distinct seasons without excessive precipitation.
Winter
Min:
21°F
Max:
36°F
Spring
Min:
38°F
Max:
64°F
Summer
Min:
53°F
Max:
86°F
Fall
Min:
40°F
Max:
67°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
9.0 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
66%
Neighbors
Ellensburg’s neighborhoods are shaped by a blend of students and families, with a median household income of $49,800 and a relatively high poverty rate of 27%. Commute times are short, averaging under 15 minutes, and most residents drive to work. The community values education, with over 93% holding at least a high school diploma.
Median Income:
$28,700
Household Income:
$49,800
Family Income:
$71,200
Per Capita Income:
$22,900
Income Male:
$29,900
Income Female:
$27,800
Poverty Rate:
27.4%
Non English Speakers:
11.2%
Rent:
$1,250
Unemployment Rate:
4.9%
Public Transport Usage:
1.2%
Commute Time:
14.7 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
93.6%
Bachelors or More:
35.1%
Education
How are the schools in Ellensburg, WA?
Education is a strong focus in Ellensburg, with public schools like Ellensburg High School and Morgan Middle School serving the community alongside private options. Central Washington University sits at the heart of town, attracting over 10,000 students and fostering a lively academic environment. Families benefit from a range of educational opportunities, from K-12 to higher education.
Public Schools
Name:
Ellensburg High School
Street:
1203 E Capitol Ave
Phone:
509-925-8300
Students:
1,030
Student Teacher Ratio:
21:1
Name:
Morgan Middle School
Street:
400 E 1st Ave
Phone:
509-925-8200
Students:
740
Student Teacher Ratio:
19:1
Private Schools
Name:
St. Andrew's Catholic School
Street:
401 S Willow St
Phone:
509-925-3149
Students:
120
Colleges
Name:
Central Washington University
City:
Ellensburg
State:
WA
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
10,800
Healthcare
Healthcare in Ellensburg is anchored by Kittitas Valley Healthcare Hospital, providing general and emergency services locally. The city benefits from a high health insurance coverage rate of nearly 93% and a solid physician-to-resident ratio. Residents enjoy good access to medical care without needing to leave town for most services.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Kittitas Valley Healthcare Hospital
Address:
603 S Chestnut St, Ellensburg, WA 98926
Phone:
(509) 962-9841
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
92.7%
Health Care Index:
77.3
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Ellensburg, WA?
Ellensburg’s housing market features a median home price of $385,000 and steady 5.2% annual appreciation, offering both stability and investment potential. Rental options are plentiful, though owner-occupancy is lower than average at 37.5%, reflecting the city’s large student population. New construction is modest, helping maintain Ellensburg’s charming, established neighborhoods.
Median Home Price:
$385,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,250
Owner Occupied Rate:
37.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
5.2%
New Construction Rate:
2.1%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Ellensburg residents can access driver and vehicle services through the Washington State Department of Licensing located on E Mountain View Ave. The local DMV provides standard licensing, registration, and identification services, making it convenient for newcomers to get settled. More information is available on the state’s official Department of Licensing website.
State:
Washington
Department:
Washington State Department of Licensing
Address:
605 E Mountain View Ave, Ellensburg, WA 98926
Phone:
(360) 902-3900
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.