Elk County, Kansas Demographics 2026

Population Overview

Elk County is located in Kansas with a total population of 2,464. It is the 94th most populous county out of 105 in Kansas.

Age Demographics

The median age in Elk County is 49.6 years. This is 33% higher than the state median of 37.2 years. 12.6% of residents are 75 or older, suggesting a significant retirement-age population with implications for healthcare services and senior housing.

Economy, Income & Housing

The median household income in Elk County is $56,087. This is 23% lower than the state median of $72,639. Compared to the national median of $78,538, household income here is 29% lower. The poverty rate stands at 16.7%. This is 45% higher than the state poverty rate of 11.5%. The unemployment rate is 3.5%. This is 12% lower than the state rate of 3.9%. The median home value is $60,900. Housing costs are 70% lower than the state median of $203,400. With a home-value-to-income ratio of just 1.1x, Elk County is one of the most affordable housing markets in the area. 77.6% of occupied housing units are owner-occupied. This homeownership rate is 16% higher than the state average of 66.9%.

Race & Ethnicity

Elk County has a predominantly White (non-Hispanic) population, comprising 88.1% of all residents. Hispanic or Latino residents account for 4.5%. The Black or African American population (0.1%) is well below the state average of 5.3%. The Hispanic or Latino population (4.5%) is well below the state average of 13.3%. The Asian population (0.4%) is well below the state average of 2.9%.

Education

20.6% of residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher. This is 41% lower than the state rate of 35.2%. Nationally, 35.0% of adults hold at least a bachelor's degree. The high school graduation rate (or equivalent) is 92.0%.