Washington / Kittitas County

Moving to Ellensburg, WA

Thinking of making a move to Ellensburg, WA? Get helpful local information about living costs, neighborhoods, schools, weather, housing, DMV details, and practical relocation details before you plan your move.

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Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Ellensburg, WA

Considering a move to Ellensburg, WA? This welcoming community of 20,326 residents offers a blend of suburban charm and convenience, with median home prices around $385,000 and average rents near $1,250. Commute times average 15 minutes and public transport is accessible, making it great for professionals. The area boasts low violent crime, strong schools, and plenty of sunny days (66% annually), ideal for families and commuters alike. Explore Ellensburg's cost of living, education, and friendly neighborhoods to see if it's the right fit for your next move.

Demographics - Ellensburg, WA

Ellensburg has a population of 20,326 residents, offering a diverse community with a median age of nearly 24 and a balanced gender ratio. The area features a strong blend of backgrounds, with about 81% White, 1% Black, and 3% Asian residents, and over 11% speaking a language other than English at home. Its high population density contributes to a lively suburban atmosphere.

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?

The cost of living in Ellensburg is higher than the national average, with a cost of living index of 104.5. Median home values are around $385,000 and average rents for a two-bedroom apartment are approximately $1,250. Utilities, groceries, and transportation costs are also elevated, reflecting the area's desirable location and amenities.

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 is considered a safe community, with a low violent crime rate of 261 incidents per 100,000 residents and a property crime chance of 1 in 47. Most residents enjoy peace of mind, making it an attractive choice for families. The crime index remains below many urban areas in Washington.

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 experiences four distinct seasons, with warm summers reaching highs of 86°F and cold winters dipping to 21°F. The area receives about 9 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine on 66% of days. This climate offers residents a balanced mix of outdoor opportunities year-round.

Winter

Min
21°F
Max
36°F

Summer

Min
53°F
Max
86°F

Spring

Min
38°F
Max
64°F

Fall

Min
40°F
Max
67°F
Average Rainfall Inches
9.0 inches
Sunny Days Percentage
66%

Neighbors

The neighborhood boasts a healthy median household income of $49,800 and a low poverty rate of 27.4%. Over 94% of residents have at least a high school diploma, and nearly 35% hold a bachelor's degree or higher. Commute times average 15 minutes, and almost 1% use public transportation, reflecting the area's accessibility and educated population.

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?

Ellensburg offers quality education options, with public schools like Ellensburg High School and Morgan Middle School known for favorable student-to-teacher ratios. Families also have access to private schools and several nearby colleges, including Central Washington University. The community is committed to educational excellence for all age groups.

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

Ellensburg residents have access to quality healthcare, with major hospitals like Kittitas Valley Healthcare Hospital nearby. The community benefits from a high physician-to-resident ratio of 2.1 per 1,000 people and 92.7% health insurance coverage. Local healthcare services are reliable and comprehensive.

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

Healthcare Access

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?

The local housing market is strong, with a median home price of $385,000 and an owner-occupied rate of nearly 38%. The market has seen a 5.2% appreciation over the past year, and rental vacancy rates remain moderate at 6.2%. Ellensburg offers a mix of stability and opportunity for both buyers and renters.

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

Residents of Ellensburg handle vehicle services through the Washington State Department of Licensing, conveniently located in Ellensburg. The state DMV provides driver licensing, vehicle registration, and other essential services both in person and online. Information and resources are easily accessible for new and existing residents.

State
Washington
Department
Washington State Department of Licensing
Address
605 E Mountain View Ave, Ellensburg, WA 98926
Phone
(360) 902-3900

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.

FAQs About Moving to Ellensburg, WA

Answers use the same city data shown on this page, including costs, housing, schools, safety, weather, healthcare, and DMV details.

Before moving to Ellensburg, review the core fields on this page: population 20,326, median home value $385,000, average rent for 2 bedroom $1,250, commute time 14.7 minutes, and sunny days percentage 66%.

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