[5] According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 0.48 square miles (1.24 km2), all land.

[6] The climate in this area is characterized by hot, humid summers and generally mild to cool winters.

[7] Riley is part of the Manhattan, Kansas Metropolitan Statistical Area.

There were 406 housing units at an average density of 845.8 per square mile (326.6/km2).

25.9% of all households were made up of individuals, and 7.4% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older.

23.7% of all households were made up of individuals, and 11.6% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older.

The community is served by Riley County USD 378 public school district.