countyscore
49.7
County Score
Cost of Living 93.6Disaster Risk 85.4Lawn Care 71.3

County Report Card

About Elk County, Kansas

A Mirror of National Averages

Elk County earns a composite score of 49.7, placing it almost exactly at the national median of 50.0. This score reflects a balanced profile that aligns with the typical American living experience across various metrics.

Leading the Kansas Average

While its national standing is average, Elk County slightly outpaces the Kansas state average composite score of 49.5. This makes it a competitive option for residents seeking the best of what the Sunflower State has to offer.

Unmatched Affordability and Low Risk

The county shines with a Cost Score of 93.6, supported by an ultra-low median gross rent of just $534 per month. Additionally, its Risk Score of 85.4 suggests residents face significantly fewer environmental hazards compared to many other regions.

Water Infrastructure and Tax Burdens

Elk County faces a notable hurdle with its Water Score of 2.4, the lowest among its performance metrics. Residents also navigate a heavy tax burden, as indicated by a Tax Score of 3.2 and an effective tax rate of 1.988%.

Perfect for Frugal, Low-Risk Lifestyles

This county is an ideal fit for retirees or remote workers who prioritize exceptionally low housing costs and physical safety. While the tax rate is high, the rock-bottom median home value of $60,900 keeps entry costs very accessible.

Score breakdown

Tax3.2Cost93.6Safety47.4Health35.7Schools61.3Income27.9Risk85.4Water2.4Weather52
🏛3.2
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠93.6
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼27.9
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡47.4
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤35.7
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓61.3
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡85.4
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧2.4
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤52
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨63.3
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱71.3
Lawn Care
Lawn difficulty score based on climate, soil, and grass suitability
LawnByCounty →
🛒
Farmers Markets
Local market density, SNAP/EBT acceptance, and product variety
MarketsByCounty →
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Deep Dives

Elk County across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 10 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in Elk County

via TaxByCounty

Elk County taxes well below national average

Elk County's effective tax rate of 1.988% significantly undercuts the national median of 2.690%, placing the county in the bottom 40% nationally—meaning most U.S. counties charge more to property owners. The county's median property tax of $1,211 is less than half the national median of $2,690, a direct result of lower home values and tax rates combined.

Above-average Kansas tax burden

At 1.988%, Elk County's effective rate exceeds Kansas's state average of 1.549% by 0.439 percentage points, ranking it among the higher-taxing counties statewide. The county's median tax of $1,211 falls below the state median of $1,943, reflecting Elk County's lower home values rather than its tax structure.

Higher taxes than surrounding counties

Elk County's 1.988% rate tops nearby Ellis County (1.223%) and Gove County (1.329%), making it the priciest in the region. Compared to Ellsworth County (1.518%) and Ford County (1.650%), Elk County still carries a notably steeper tax burden on residents.

Typical Elk County homeowner pays $1,211 yearly

On the county's median home value of $60,900, property owners owe an estimated annual tax of $1,211 without mortgage interest deductions, or $1,372 with them. That's significantly lower than national medians in absolute dollars, but relatively high for Kansas when accounting for local property values.

Many homeowners eligible for tax relief

Research shows that up to 20% of property owners are overassessed relative to current market values, making them eligible for formal appeals that could lower their tax bills. Elk County residents with recent home appraisals or declining neighborhood values should consider filing an assessment challenge with the county assessor's office.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Elk County

via CostByCounty

Elk County rents remain remarkably affordable

At 11.4%, Elk County's rent-to-income ratio sits nearly 3 percentage points below the national benchmark and ranks among Kansas's most affordable rental markets. Residents here spend roughly $534 monthly on rent, well below the national trajectory while earning a median of $56,087—proving that lower incomes don't necessarily mean housing stress in rural Kansas.

Best rental affordability in Kansas

Elk County ranks at the top of Kansas for housing affordability, with a rent-to-income ratio of 11.4% compared to the state average of 14.7%. This advantage stems from both modest rents ($534/month vs. $787 statewide) and a cost-of-living ecosystem that matches local wages.

Elk County outpaces regional peers

Elk County's $534 monthly rent is the lowest among its peers, undercutting Ellsworth County ($705), Gove County ($730), and Ellsworth County by $100-200 monthly. Even homebuyers find stability here: the median home value of $60,900 is less than half that of neighboring Ellis County ($211,100).

Housing takes modest slice of income

Renters dedicate 11.4% of income to rent ($534/month), while homeowners pay $567 monthly—both comfortably below the 30% affordability threshold. Combined with a $56,087 median household income, Elk County residents have room to build savings and manage unexpected expenses.

Remote workers, consider Elk County

If you're weighing rural Kansas options, Elk County offers the state's most affordable housing foundation. Compare this stability to pricier neighbors like Ellis County (rent-to-income: 18.0%) or Geary County (23.4%)—your paycheck stretches further here.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Elk County

via IncomeByCounty

Elk County lags national income

Elk County's median household income of $56,087 trails the national median of $74,755 by nearly $19,000 annually. This 25% gap places Elk County among lower-income counties nationwide, reflecting the economic challenges facing rural Kansas communities.

Below average for Kansas

At $56,087, Elk County's median household income ranks below Kansas's state average of $64,428. The county's income sits roughly 13% below the state median, indicating economic strain relative to peer Kansas communities.

Struggling versus neighboring counties

Elk County earns significantly less than nearby Ellsworth County ($66,792) and Gove County ($63,203). Only Geary County ($57,344) in this regional cluster earns comparably, but Elk County remains the second-lowest earner among its neighbors.

Housing remains affordable here

Elk County's 11.4% rent-to-income ratio is among the most affordable in the dataset, well below the national healthy threshold of 28%. With median home values at just $60,900, Elk County residents spend minimal income on housing, leaving room for other essentials.

Build wealth despite lower earnings

With affordable housing, Elk County residents have a genuine opportunity to save and invest. Consider directing housing savings into retirement accounts or emergency funds—every dollar counts toward long-term financial security.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Elk County

via CrimeByCounty

Elk County remains significantly safer than national averages

Elk County reports a total crime rate of 1,182.3 per 100,000 residents, which is nearly half the national average of 2,385.5. This impressive performance earns the county a safety score of 98.1 out of 100. Local law enforcement maintains a high level of security across the region's rural landscapes.

County safety scores lead the state of Kansas

The county's safety score of 98.1 sits just above the Kansas state average of 98.0. Its total crime rate of 1,182.3 per 100,000 is lower than the state average of 1,282.2. Residents enjoy one of the more secure environments in the region compared to surrounding urban centers.

Competitive safety rankings among Kansas neighbors

Elk County outperforms the state average total crime rate of 1,282.2 per 100,000 with its lower rate of 1,182.3. While neighboring areas face varying challenges, Elk maintains a consistent profile as a low-crime jurisdiction. This stability provides a clear advantage for families and businesses looking for a secure location.

Property crime drives most local police activity

The local crime landscape consists primarily of property crimes at 896.9 per 100,000, while the violent crime rate remains low at 285.4. Although the violent rate is slightly above the state average of 235.9, it remains below the national figure of 369.8. Two reporting agencies provide comprehensive coverage for these incidents.

Simple measures enhance Elk County home security

With property crime making up the bulk of local reports, residents can benefit from basic home security awareness. Improving outdoor lighting and securing outbuildings often deter opportunistic thefts in rural settings. Staying vigilant and connected with neighbors further strengthens the county's high safety standing.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Elk County

via HealthByCounty

Elk County trails national health benchmarks

At 74.2 years, Elk County's life expectancy falls 5.8 years below the U.S. average of 80 years, signaling persistent health challenges. One in five residents report poor or fair health, exceeding national norms and suggesting significant chronic disease burden in the county.

Kansas ranks Elk County below state average

Elk County's 74.2-year life expectancy is 1.2 years lower than Kansas's 75.4-year average, placing it among the state's lower-performing counties. The 20.4% poor/fair health rate also exceeds Kansas's typical profile, indicating localized health disparities.

Elk County health lags regional peers

Compared to nearby Ellsworth County (76.7 years) and Franklin County (75.0 years), Elk County residents face notably shorter lifespans. The 20.4% poor/fair health rate is highest among its immediate neighbors, reflecting concentrated health vulnerabilities.

Healthcare access remains stretched

Elk County's uninsured rate of 12.5% exceeds the state average of 11.5%, meaning roughly one in eight residents lack coverage. With 41 primary care providers per 100,000, the county has adequate but not abundant physician capacity for routine care.

Explore coverage options now

If you're uninsured or underinsured, visit Healthcare.gov or contact Kansas DHCF to explore Medicaid, ACA plans, and community health programs tailored to your income. Taking action today can connect you to preventive care and reduce long-term health costs.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Elk County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Small but Specialized Rural Network

Elk County operates 4 public schools across 2 school districts, serving a total of 664 students. The infrastructure includes one elementary school, one high school, and two specialized programs to meet local needs. This compact system maintains a very low student population, focusing on intimate learning environments.

High Quality Scores Despite Funding Gaps

The county earns a strong school score of 71.1, significantly outperforming the Kansas state average of 57.2. While the 84.7% graduation rate is slightly below the national average of 87%, the county invests heavily in its students with per-pupil spending of $16,438. This expenditure is nearly double the state average of $9,009 and exceeds national benchmarks by over $3,000.

West Elk Leads Local Enrollment

The West Elk district is the primary provider in the county, managing two schools and 551 students. The Elk Valley district serves a smaller cohort of 113 students across two campuses. There are currently no charter schools operating within the county, as traditional public districts manage 100% of the local education.

Personalized Learning in a Rural Setting

Every school in Elk County is classified as rural, creating a close-knit community feel with an average school size of just 166 students. West Elk Schools is the largest campus with 378 students, while Elk Valley High School offers an incredibly small environment with only 47 students. Educational attainment data for Bachelor's degrees is currently unavailable for this area.

Find Your Home in a Top-Scoring District

Families looking for high-quality instruction in a quiet, rural setting should consider Elk County's impressive school scores. With per-pupil investment far exceeding state levels, these schools offer a level of individual attention rarely found elsewhere. Explore homes near West Elk or Elk Valley to secure a place in this high-performing educational community.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Elk County

via RiskByCounty

Elk County sits well below national risk

With a composite risk score of 14.60, Elk County ranks as Very Low for natural disasters—significantly safer than the typical U.S. county. This means residents face substantially fewer threats from flooding, tornadoes, wildfires, and earthquakes combined.

Among Kansas's safest counties

Elk County's score of 14.60 places it well below Kansas's state average of 29.89, making it one of the state's lowest-risk counties. Residents enjoy considerably better odds than their neighbors across much of the state.

Safer than most surrounding areas

Compared to adjacent counties like Woodson and Chase, Elk County's risk profile is notably lower across nearly all hazard types. Its 14.60 composite score reflects a genuinely protective geographic position in southeast Kansas.

Wildfire and tornado are top concerns

Wildfire risk scores 91.70 and tornado risk reaches 37.98—both are Elk County's most significant threats, though tornado exposure remains well-managed. Flooding and earthquakes pose minimal danger, with scores of 17.81 and 19.18 respectively.

Basic coverage protects against main risks

Standard homeowners insurance covers tornado damage, while wildfire-specific riders provide added peace of mind given the county's elevated brush fire exposure. Given your low overall risk profile, basic coverage meets most residents' needs.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Elk County

via WeatherByCounty

Warmer and Wetter Than National Medians

Elk County maintains an average annual temperature of 55.8°F, which is slightly warmer than the national median. Its humid subtropical influence is clear, receiving a generous 40.5 inches of precipitation annually.

One of Kansas's Warmer, Wetter Regions

The county's 55.8°F average temperature sits a full degree higher than the Kansas state average of 54.8°F. It also receives 10 inches more rainfall than the typical Kansas county.

A Lush Outlier in Southern Kansas

With 40.5 inches of rain, Elk County is significantly wetter than central neighbors like Ellsworth. It remains warmer than northern counties while maintaining a more humid profile than the western plains.

Mild Winters and Steamy Summers

The county experiences 50 days of extreme heat above 90°F, peaking with a July average of 78.9°F. Winters are relatively mild, seeing only 8.4 inches of snow and a January average of 31.7°F.

Prepare for Rain and Humidity

Residents should maintain clear gutters and drainage systems to manage the high 40.5-inch annual rainfall. High-efficiency cooling is essential for the 50 days of extreme summer heat.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Elk County

via SoilByCounty

Slightly Acidic Soils in Southeast Kansas

Elk County features an average pH of 6.30, which sits slightly below the national median of 6.5. This mild acidity helps plants absorb certain nutrients more efficiently than in more alkaline neighboring counties. With a soil score of 63.3, these lands significantly outperform the state average of 55.4.

Silt-Heavy Grounds Support Fine Texture

The soil profile consists of 54.3% silt, 27.9% clay, and a relatively low 17.8% sand. This composition creates a dense, fine-textured earth that holds its shape well. While high silt improves nutrient storage, the significant clay content means gardeners must manage the soil carefully to prevent compaction.

Above Average Organic Richness

Organic matter reaches 2.69%, surpassing both the Kansas state average of 2.22% and the national average of 2.0%. The available water capacity exactly matches the state average at 0.180 in/in. This combination provides a fertile foundation for high-yield farming and gardening.

Understanding Elk County's Water Movement

Specific local data on dominant drainage classes is limited, but the high silt and clay content generally indicates slower water movement. Farmers and builders should watch for moisture retention during heavy rains. Proper site grading helps manage the runoff risks inherent in these heavier soil types.

Abundant Potential in Hardiness Zone 7a

Elk County sits in USDA Hardiness Zone 7a, allowing for a longer growing season than much of Kansas. The silt-rich soil and moderate climate are ideal for growing pecans, blackberries, and winter wheat. Get outside and start your garden today to take advantage of this high-scoring soil.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Elk County

via LawnByCounty

Elk County Offers Ideal Lawn Growing Conditions

With a lawn difficulty score of 71.3, maintaining a yard here is significantly easier than the national median of 50.0. This Hardiness Zone 7a county outperforms the Kansas state average of 59.1, making it a premier spot for turf health. Homeowners enjoy a climate that supports lush growth with less effort than neighboring regions.

Abundant Rain and Manageable Summer Heat

Elk County receives 40.5 inches of annual precipitation, falling perfectly within the ideal 30-50 inch range for healthy lawns. While there are 50 extreme heat days each year, this is lower than the state average of 58 days. The 4,164 growing degree days provide a robust window for established grasses to thrive.

Perfectly Balanced Soil for Nutrient Uptake

The soil pH sits at 6.30, which falls squarely within the ideal 6.0-7.0 range for maximum nutrient availability. With 27.9% clay and 17.8% sand, the ground holds moisture well while maintaining structure. Although specific drainage class data is unavailable, this heavy clay profile generally requires aeration to prevent compaction.

Managing Dry Spells in Abnormal Conditions

The county experienced 12 weeks of drought over the past year, and currently, 100% of the area is classified as abnormally dry. Residents should focus on deep, infrequent watering to encourage deep root systems before summer heat peaks. Monitoring soil moisture is essential to keep lawns resilient during these seasonal dry periods.

Start Your Lawn After Mid-April

Tall fescue and Bermuda grass are excellent choices for this Zone 7a climate. Plan your seeding or sodding projects after the last spring frost on April 17 to ensure young shoots survive. With a long growing season and high difficulty score, your Elk County lawn is set for success.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Elk County's county score?
Elk County, Kansas has a composite county score of 49.7 out of 100 on CountyScore. This score is calculated from a weighted average of available data dimensions including property tax, cost of living, income, safety, health, and schools.
How does Elk County rank among counties in Kansas?
Elk County ranks #57 among all counties in Kansas on CountyScore's composite ranking. Rankings are based on available data dimensions and updated as new data is added.
What are property taxes like in Elk County, Kansas?
The median annual property tax in Elk County is $1,211, with an effective tax rate of 1.99%. This earns Elk County a tax score of 3.2/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Elk County?
The median household income in Elk County, Kansas is $56,087 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Elk County earns an income score of 27.9/100 on CountyScore.
Is Elk County, Kansas a good place to live?
Elk County scores 49.7/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #57 in Kansas. The best way to evaluate Elk County is to compare individual dimension scores — property tax, cost of living, income, safety, health, and schools — based on your personal priorities. Use CountyScore to compare Elk County with other counties side by side.

ByCounty Network

🏛Property Tax🏠Cost of Living💼Income & Jobs🛡Safety❤Health🎓Schools⚡Disaster Risk💧Water Quality🌤Weather & Climate🪨Soil Quality🌱Lawn Care🛒Farmers Markets

Data from U.S. Census Bureau ACS, FBI UCR, CDC, FEMA NRI, NCES, EPA SDWIS, NOAA — informational only.