Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Emporia, KS
Considering a move to Emporia, KS? Home to about 24,500 residents, Emporia offers an affordable lifestyle with median home prices around $117,500 and average rent at $750. Commutes are short at just under 14 minutes, and the city enjoys a sunny climate with 62% sunny days per year. While violent crime is below the national average, property crime is a bit higher, so keep that in mind. Emporia is a college town anchored by Emporia State University, with a youthful population, access to quality healthcare, and affordable living—great for families, students, and those seeking value.
Demographics - Emporia, KS
Demographics - Emporia, KS
Emporia, KS, is home to about 24,500 residents with a youthful median age of 29.1, reflecting its vibrant college town atmosphere. The city is predominantly White (75.4%), with a notable presence of other ethnicities and 13.5% of residents speaking a language other than English at home. Its balanced gender ratio and moderate population density create a welcoming and diverse community.
Population:
24,465
Density:
1,700 per sq mi
Median Age:
29.1
Gender Ratio:
99 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
13.5%

Ethnic Composition
White:
75.4%
Black:
3.2%
Asian:
1.7%
Others:
19.7%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Emporia, KS?
Emporia offers an affordable cost of living, with a median home value of $117,500 and average rent at $750, making it attractive for both homeowners and renters. The overall cost of living index is 78.2, well below the national average, and essential expenses like groceries, utilities, and healthcare remain budget-friendly. State income tax rates range from 3.1% to 5.7%, keeping local taxes manageable.
Median House Value:
$117,500
Gross Rent:
$750
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,050
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,090
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$410
State Taxes:
Low:
3.1%
|
High:
5.7%
Cost Of Living Index:
78.2
Grocery:
94.0
Housing:
54.0
Utilities:
97.5
Transportation:
81.0
Health Care:
93.8
Miscellaneous:
92.0
Crime
Is Emporia, KS a safe place to live?
Emporia experiences a lower-than-average violent crime rate, with 371 incidents per 100,000 residents, but property crime is somewhat higher at 2,089 per 100,000. Residents have a 1 in 270 chance of being affected by violent crime and a 1 in 48 chance for property crime, so staying vigilant is recommended. Overall, the city maintains a generally safe environment with some areas for improvement in property security.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
371
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,089
Crime Index:
2,460
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 270
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 48
Weather
What is the weather like in Emporia, KS year-round?
Emporia enjoys four distinct seasons, with warm summers reaching up to 91°F and chilly winters dipping to 19°F. The city receives about 34 inches of rainfall annually and boasts 62% sunny days, offering plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities throughout the year. Mild spring and fall temperatures provide a comfortable transition between the more extreme summer and winter months.

Winter
Min:
19°F
Max:
41°F

Spring
Min:
40°F
Max:
69°F

Summer
Min:
63°F
Max:
91°F

Fall
Min:
41°F
Max:
71°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
34.2 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
62%
Neighbors
Residents in Emporia benefit from a close-knit community with a median household income of $45,300 and an average commute time of just under 14 minutes. While the poverty rate stands at 21.2%, the majority of adults have at least a high school education, and public transportation use is low. The area is known for its affordability and friendly atmosphere, making it suitable for families and individuals alike.
Median Income:
$26,900
Household Income:
$45,300
Family Income:
$56,900
Per Capita Income:
$21,800
Income Male:
$30,500
Income Female:
$25,800
Poverty Rate:
21.2%
Non English Speakers:
13.5%
Rent:
$750
Unemployment Rate:
4.1%
Public Transport Usage:
0.6%
Commute Time:
13.8 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
83.9%
Bachelors or More:
22.2%
Education
How are the schools in Emporia, KS?
Emporia is a hub for education, featuring public schools like Emporia High School and Walnut Elementary, as well as private options such as Sacred Heart Catholic School. The city is also home to Emporia State University, enrolling around 5,400 students and contributing to Emporia’s youthful energy. With a variety of educational opportunities for all ages, families and students will find ample resources to support lifelong learning.

Public Schools
Name:
Emporia High School
Street:
3302 W 18th Ave
Phone:
620-341-2365
Students:
1,400
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.7
Name:
Walnut Elementary School
Street:
801 Grove Ave
Phone:
620-341-2285
Students:
380
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.4

Private Schools
Name:
Sacred Heart Catholic School
Street:
1025 Trail Ridge Rd
Phone:
620-342-5353
Students:
190

Colleges
Name:
Emporia State University
City:
Emporia
State:
KS
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
5,400
Healthcare
Emporia provides reliable healthcare options, anchored by Newman Regional Health offering general and emergency services in the city. With 1.7 physicians per 1,000 residents and a high health insurance coverage rate of 87.5%, most locals have access to quality medical care. The city’s healthcare index of 77.0 indicates generally good healthcare standards for its population.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Newman Regional Health
Address:
1201 W 12th Ave, Emporia, KS 66801
Phone:
(620) 343-6800
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.7
Health Insurance Coverage:
87.5%
Health Care Index:
77.0
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Emporia, KS?
The Emporia housing market is accessible, with a median home price of $117,500 and average rent for a two-bedroom apartment at $750. About 53% of homes are owner-occupied, and the market has seen a healthy appreciation rate of nearly 5% over the past year. The area’s low foreclosure rate and moderate rental vacancy suggest stability and opportunity for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$117,500
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$750
Owner Occupied Rate:
53.2%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
8.8%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.9%
New Construction Rate:
0.7%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Emporia residents are served locally by the Kansas Department of Revenue – Division of Vehicles, conveniently located on Commercial Street. Services include driver licensing, vehicle registration, and title processing, with information available online and via phone. The office provides essential DMV services for both new arrivals and longtime residents.
State:
Kansas
Department:
Kansas Department of Revenue – Division of Vehicles
Address:
1015 Commercial St, Emporia, KS 66801
Phone:
1-785-296-3671
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.