Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Manhattan, KS
Considering a move to Manhattan, KS? With a youthful population of around 54,800, affordable median home prices at $244,000, and average rents near $970, Manhattan offers a low cost of living and quick commutes averaging just 15 minutes. The city is anchored by Kansas State University, boasts strong educational attainment (49% bachelor's or higher), and enjoys 61% sunny days annually. Violent crime rates are relatively low, and residents benefit from a reputable local hospital and a welcoming college-town vibe.
Demographics - Manhattan, KS
Demographics - Manhattan, KS
Manhattan, KS is home to a youthful and diverse population of about 54,800 residents, with a median age of just 24.6, reflecting its vibrant college-town atmosphere. The community is predominantly White, but also includes Black, Asian, and other ethnic groups, and nearly 10% of residents speak a language other than English at home. The city has a slightly higher number of males than females, and its population density creates a lively urban environment.
Population:
54,794
Density:
2,900 per sq mi
Median Age:
24.6
Gender Ratio:
103 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
9.5%

Ethnic Composition
White:
78.0%
Black:
6.8%
Asian:
4.8%
Others:
10.4%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Manhattan, KS?
Living in Manhattan is budget-friendly, with a cost of living index below the national average. Homebuyers benefit from a median house value of $244,000 and renters pay an average of $970 per month, while utility and healthcare costs remain manageable. State income tax rates are moderate, and the city’s low housing index makes it an attractive option for both students and families.
Median House Value:
$244,000
Gross Rent:
$970
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,180
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,370
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$520
State Taxes:
Low:
3.1%
|
High:
5.7%
Cost Of Living Index:
89.7
Grocery:
93.2
Housing:
76.5
Utilities:
95.4
Transportation:
89.8
Health Care:
96.1
Miscellaneous:
92.0
Crime
Is Manhattan, KS a safe place to live?
Manhattan enjoys a relatively low violent crime rate, with just 279 incidents per 100,000 residents and a 1 in 358 chance of being a victim. Property crime is more common, but overall safety remains strong compared to many similarly sized cities. Residents can feel secure while enjoying the amenities of this active community.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
279
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,106
Crime Index:
2,385
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 358
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 47
Weather
What is the weather like in Manhattan, KS year-round?
Manhattan experiences all four seasons, with warm summers reaching highs near 89°F and winters that can dip to 19°F. The city receives about 33.5 inches of annual rainfall and enjoys sunshine around 61% of the year, making it ideal for outdoor activities. Seasonal changes bring a variety of weather, but sunny days are abundant.

Winter
Min:
19°F
Max:
41°F

Spring
Min:
41°F
Max:
69°F

Summer
Min:
66°F
Max:
89°F

Fall
Min:
43°F
Max:
70°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
33.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
61%
Neighbors
Residents in Manhattan benefit from a median household income of $52,800 and a low unemployment rate of 2.7%, though the poverty rate is higher than average at 24.1%. The community is well-educated, with nearly half holding a bachelor’s degree or higher, and daily commutes are short, averaging just under 15 minutes. Public transit usage is minimal, reflecting the city’s convenience and accessibility.
Median Income:
$25,500
Household Income:
$52,800
Family Income:
$75,200
Per Capita Income:
$26,300
Income Male:
$35,900
Income Female:
$30,200
Poverty Rate:
24.1%
Non English Speakers:
9.5%
Rent:
$970
Unemployment Rate:
2.7%
Public Transport Usage:
1.3%
Commute Time:
14.6 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
97.2%
Bachelors or More:
49.1%
Education
How are the schools in Manhattan, KS?
Manhattan offers strong educational opportunities, highlighted by the presence of Kansas State University, which enrolls over 20,000 students. Local public schools such as Manhattan High School and Amanda Arnold Elementary provide quality education with favorable student-teacher ratios, and the city is also home to respected private schools. Educational attainment is high, making the city attractive to families and students seeking academic excellence.

Public Schools
Name:
Manhattan High School
Street:
2100 Poyntz Ave
Phone:
785-587-2100
Students:
1,800
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.5
Name:
Amanda Arnold Elementary School
Street:
1435 Hudson Ave
Phone:
785-587-2020
Students:
500
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.2

Private Schools
Name:
Manhattan Catholic School
Street:
306 S Juliette Ave
Phone:
785-565-5050
Students:
350

Colleges
Name:
Kansas State University
City:
Manhattan
State:
KS
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
20,200
Healthcare
Manhattan is served by major healthcare providers like Ascension Via Christi Hospital, offering comprehensive general and emergency services. The city has a solid physician-to-population ratio and over 92% of residents have health insurance coverage. Access to quality healthcare is reliable for both families and students.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Ascension Via Christi Hospital Manhattan
Address:
1823 College Ave, Manhattan, KS 66502
Phone:
(785) 587-4200
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.4
Health Insurance Coverage:
92.4%
Health Care Index:
78.1
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Manhattan, KS?
The housing market in Manhattan features a median home price of $244,000 and average rent for a two-bedroom apartment at $970, making homeownership and renting accessible options. About 41% of residents own their homes, and the city sees steady home appreciation at 4.2% annually. The market is stable, with low foreclosure and vacancy rates supporting a healthy real estate environment.
Median Home Price:
$244,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$970
Owner Occupied Rate:
40.7%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.8%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.2%
New Construction Rate:
2.1%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.4%
DMV Information
Vehicle services for Manhattan residents are managed by the Kansas Division of Vehicles, with resources available online and at a regional office in Topeka. The DMV provides standard licensing, registration, and title services for Kansas drivers. Residents benefit from straightforward access to essential vehicle documentation and support.
State:
Kansas
Department:
Kansas Division of Vehicles
Address:
300 SW 29th St, Topeka, KS 66611
Phone:
1-785-296-3621
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.