Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Friend, KS
Considering a move to Friend, KS? This quiet rural community of just 89 residents offers affordable living with a median home price around $78,000 and average rents near $650. Enjoy a low crime rate, short 16-minute commutes, and plenty of sunny days (72% annually). While amenities are basic and schools are found in nearby towns, Friend is ideal for those seeking small-town charm, wide open spaces, and a relaxed pace in western Kansas.
Demographics - Friend, KS
Demographics - Friend, KS
Friend, KS is a close-knit rural community with a population of just 89 residents, a median age of 44.2, and a predominantly White ethnic makeup. The area has a balanced gender ratio and a small percentage of non-English speakers, offering a quiet and neighborly atmosphere for newcomers.
Population:
89
Density:
140 per sq mi
Median Age:
44.2
Gender Ratio:
104 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
6.0%

Ethnic Composition
White:
91.0%
Black:
0.0%
Asian:
0.0%
Others:
9.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Friend, KS?
Living costs in Friend are well below the national average, with a cost of living index of 81.5 and median home values around $78,000. Residents benefit from affordable housing, low utility expenses, and moderate state taxes, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and families.
Median House Value:
$78,000
Gross Rent:
$650
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,220
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$830
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$330
State Taxes:
Low:
3.1%
|
High:
5.7%
Cost Of Living Index:
81.5
Grocery:
93.0
Housing:
52.0
Utilities:
96.0
Transportation:
87.0
Health Care:
87.0
Miscellaneous:
85.0
Crime
Is Friend, KS a safe place to live?
Friend enjoys a low crime environment, with a violent crime rate of 160 per 100,000 people and property crime odds of just 1 in 89. Residents can feel secure in this peaceful and safe small-town setting.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
160
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,120
Crime Index:
1,280
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 625
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 89
Weather
What is the weather like in Friend, KS year-round?
The climate in Friend features hot summers with highs reaching 94°F, cold winters dipping to 18°F, and pleasant springs and falls. The area sees about 19.5 inches of rainfall annually and boasts 72% sunny days, offering plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors.

Winter
Min:
18°F
Max:
43°F

Spring
Min:
39°F
Max:
67°F

Summer
Min:
62°F
Max:
94°F

Fall
Min:
41°F
Max:
72°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
19.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
72%
Neighbors
Households in Friend typically have a median income of $55,400, with a low unemployment rate of 3.3% and an average commute of just 16 minutes. The community is well-educated, with nearly 89% of adults holding at least a high school diploma, and poverty rates remain below the national average.
Median Income:
$37,500
Household Income:
$55,400
Family Income:
$67,000
Per Capita Income:
$27,800
Income Male:
$35,000
Income Female:
$28,000
Poverty Rate:
8.5%
Non English Speakers:
6.0%
Rent:
$650
Unemployment Rate:
3.3%
Public Transport Usage:
0.0%
Commute Time:
16.0 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
88.5%
Bachelors or More:
19.2%
Education
How are the schools in Friend, KS?
Educational opportunities are provided by nearby public schools such as Sullivan and Plymell Elementary, known for low student-to-teacher ratios. For higher education, Garden City Community College is just 32 miles away, supporting the academic needs of local students.

Public Schools
Name:
Sullivan Elementary School
Street:
201 N Main St, Ulysses, KS 67880
Phone:
620-356-1742
Students:
330
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.5
Name:
Plymell Elementary School
Street:
11109 S Hwy 83, Garden City, KS 67846
Phone:
620-805-7700
Students:
150
Student Teacher Ratio:
12.8

Colleges
Name:
Garden City Community College
City:
Garden City
State:
KS
Distance:
32 miles
Students:
2,000
Healthcare
Residents have access to quality healthcare, including the nearby Stanton County Hospital, and benefit from a high health insurance coverage rate of 90.4%. With about 1.2 physicians per 1,000 residents, basic medical needs are well-served in the area.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Stanton County Hospital
Address:
404 N Chestnut St, Johnson City, KS 67855
Phone:
(620) 492-6250
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.2
Health Insurance Coverage:
90.4%
Health Care Index:
66.0
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Friend, KS?
Friend's housing market is very affordable, with a median home price of $78,000 and average rents for a two-bedroom apartment around $650. With a high owner-occupancy rate of 76.5% and steady home appreciation, the area offers stability for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$78,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$650
Owner Occupied Rate:
76.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.8%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.3%
New Construction Rate:
0.3%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.2%
DMV Information
Vehicle services for Friend residents are managed by the Kansas Department of Revenue – Division of Vehicles, located in Topeka. DMV resources, including licensing and registration, are accessible online and by phone for convenience.
State:
Kansas
Department:
Kansas Department of Revenue – Division of Vehicles
Address:
300 SW 29th St, Topeka, KS 66611
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.