As for finding cheap fares, there are plenty of threads in the
mileage run forum with details. I try to look at least every few days, sometimes more often. Even if the best fare isn't listed from my city I'll try to piece something together and can usually get pretty close. In my experience, AUS usually has very competitive rates for international, as both AA and UA compete heavily here.
I don't think it is safe to say anything about the number of elites at any level. I'll be EXP for the first time ever (well I was a US CP several times), so I'll be another addition.