El Dorado, AR demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
17,115
-1.5% year-over-year change
Median household income
$49,244/yr
9.1% year-over-year change
Housing units
7,895
0.5% year-over-year change

El Dorado population

How many people live in El Dorado

El Dorado is home to 17,115 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 47.6% of El Dorado locals are male, and 52.4% are female.

Total population
17,115
-1.5% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
47.6%
8,141
Female
52.4%
8,974
Value Percent YoY change
Male 8,141 47.6% -5.2%
Female 8,974 52.4% 2.0%
A higher population often means more rental variety and livelier areas. The gender balance—how many men live here compared to women—can reveal a lot about the community and the lifestyles of its residents. Use this info to get a sense of the area's pace and personality.

Age demographics

The median age in El Dorado is 37, with the population distributed as follows: about 21.2% are children under 15, then 11.6% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 27.5% of the population, while another 21.4% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 18.3% are 65 or older.

Median age
36.6
Age breakdown
Under 15
21.2%
15 to 24
11.6%
25 to 44
27.5%
45 to 64
21.4%
Over 65
18.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 3,619 21.2% -3.8%
15 to 24 1,986 11.6% 0.6%
25 to 44 4,710 27.5% -5.4%
45 to 64 3,669 21.4% 3.0%
Over 65 3,131 18.3% 0.8%
The age composition helps you get insight into who lives in the area. A younger population might mean a more active, fast-paced vibe, while an older one could suggest a quieter, slower lifestyle. If there's a balanced makeup, you’re likely to find a variety of services, housing types, and community spaces that cater to different life stages.

Racial makeup

In El Dorado, 95.7% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 2.3% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 43.2% of locals are Caucasian, 49.2% are African American and 1.7% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 4.8% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
95.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2%
Non-citizens
2.3%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 16,386 95.7% -1.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 336 2% -4.0%
Non-citizens 393 2.3% -6.2%
Racial breakdown
White
43.2%
Black or African American
49.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.3%
Asian
1.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
4.8%
Other
0.7%
Value Percent
White 7,403 43.2%
Black or African American 8,413 49.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native 57 0.3%
Asian 298 1.7%
Two or more races 822 4.8%
Other 122 0.7%

Households in El Dorado

A peek inside El Dorado households

El Dorado has 6,561 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 56.4% are families, while the remaining 43.6% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
6,561
-0.1% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
2,864
Family households
3,697
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 2,864 43.6% 1.3%
Family households 3,697 56.4% -1.3%
The mix between family and non-family households gives a glimpse into daily life. A higher percentage of families might mean more parks and schools, while more non-family setups can mean flexible housing and diverse living styles. For renters, this can signal what kinds of homes are common and can help you figure out if the area matches your lifestyle.

Housing in El Dorado

The housing landscape of El Dorado

El Dorado's housing consists of 7,895 units, with 78% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 5.4% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
7,895
0.5% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 6,156 78%
1 unit, attached 1 0%
2 units 84 1.1%
3 or 4 units 594 7.5%
5 to 9 units 441 5.6%
10 to 19 units 78 1%
20 to 49 units 49 0.6%
50 or more units 68 0.9%
Mobile home 424 5.4%
Homes built since 2020
18
-53.9% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in El Dorado

In El Dorado, the median construction year is 1970. About 3.9% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5.4% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 3% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 5% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.2% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 305 3.9% -20.8%
Built between 1940 and 1949 430 5.4% -10.6%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,597 20.2% 1.6%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,667 21.1% 3.0%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,573 19.9% -6.3%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,086 13.8% -1.2%
Built between 1990 and 1999 590 7.5% 13.9%
Built between 2000 and 2009 235 3% 26.3%
Built between 2010 and 2019 394 5% 41.2%
Built in 2020 or later 18 0.2% -53.9%
As a renter, knowing when homes were built helps you understand the potential condition and design of rental units. Newer builds may have more contemporary layouts, while older homes can offer character or larger lots, depending on the area.

El Dorado occupancy rates

Out of the 6,561 occupied housing units in El Dorado, 57.2% are owner-occupied, while 42.8% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 16.9% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
6,561
-0.1% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
2,807
Owner occupied
3,754
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 2,807 42.8% 3.0%
Owner occupied 3,754 57.2% -2.4%
Unoccupied housing units
16.9%
Unoccupied housing units refer to homes that are currently without residents—whether they're waiting for renters or owners, used seasonally, or simply unclaimed. A higher share of empty homes may mean more housing availability, while a low number can reflect a tighter market with more competition. This, along with the renter-vs.-owner mix, helps paint a clearer picture of what types of housing and services are likely to be available in the area.

El Dorado housing costs

Housing costs in El Dorado come to a median of $858 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $880.

Median housing costs per month
$858/month
This figure sums up typical monthly housing costs for all households in the area. If you own, it includes mortgage payments in addition to property taxes, insurance and HOA fees. If you rent, it accounts for rent plus extras like utilities. It’s useful for seeing how local living expenses stack up compared to other places.
Median gross rent in El Dorado
$880/month
Gross rent gives a more complete look at what renters actually pay, including not just base rent, but also utilities and fees. It’s a key number for evaluating rental affordability in your area of interest and understanding how it compares to nearby locations.

Education in El Dorado

El Dorado education at a glance

About 49.9% of the population in El Dorado went to high school, while 22.9% pursued college studies. Another 7.8% earned an associate degree and 8.1% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 7.8% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 444 3.5% 11.8%
High school diploma 6,370 49.9% -8.5%
College diploma 2,919 22.9% 10.4%
Associate degree 996 7.8% -7.0%
Bachelor's degree 1,036 8.1% -6.7%
Graduate degree 1,000 7.8% 12.4%
A community’s education mix can offer insights into the local economy and housing market. Higher levels of education often align with more job opportunities and stable incomes, which can increase demand for homes and influence both rent prices and rental availability.

Income in El Dorado

How much people earn in El Dorado

The average annual household income in El Dorado was $64,260 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +4.6% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $49,244, reflecting a +9% shift over the same period.

Average household income in El Dorado
$64,260/year
4.6% year-over-year change
Median household income in El Dorado
$49,244/year
9.1% year-over-year change

El Dorado income by age

In El Dorado, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $58,080. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $56,406 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $23,882, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $40,991 in earnings. Overall, 76.9% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $23,882 12.4%
25 - 44 $58,080 11.0%
45 - 64 $56,406 11.1%
Over 65 $40,991 5.8%
Above poverty level
12,654
Below poverty level
3,798
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 12,654 76.9% -1.8%
Below poverty level 3,798 23.1% -5.3%

Average renter income in El Dorado

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in El Dorado, their median household income was $29,776 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 35.5%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$29,776
Rent-to-income ratio
35.5%
Understanding the rent-to-income ratio can help renters gauge if local housing costs align with their earnings. A ratio under 30% usually signals affordability, while exceeding this mark means rent is taking a larger-than-recommended bite out of income. That could make it harder for you to cover other costs like transportation, healthcare, or child care.

Employment in El Dorado

Workforce and job types in El Dorado

The job market in El Dorado is powered by 6,964 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 68.8% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 31.2% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 10.1% run their own businesses, 73.5% are employed by private companies, and 12.7% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
6,964
-2.9% year-over-year change
White collar
4,794
Blue collar
2,170
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 4,794 68.8% -5.3%
Blue collar 2,170 31.2% 2.8%
Employer type
Self employees
10.1%
Private companies
73.5%
Governmental workers
12.7%
Not for profit companies
3.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 706 10.1% 7.6%
Private companies 5,121 73.5% -1.6%
Governmental workers 883 12.7% -11.5%
Not for profit companies 254 3.6% -18.9%
Unemployment rate
7.0%
30.1% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in El Dorado stands at 7%, representing the share of the workforce currently without a job and actively looking for one.

For renters, the unemployment rate helps paint a picture of job security and financial stability in the area. Rates around 4% to 5% are considered typical. A lower-than-average rate might suggest strong job prospects and a thriving local economy, while a higher rate could hint at fewer opportunities—both useful to consider when planning a move.

Transportation in El Dorado

How people get around in El Dorado

Commuting methods vary: 88.3% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.2% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 6,076 88.3% -1.9%
Bus or trolleybus 17 0.2% 88.9%
Walk 85 1.2% -36.1%
Understanding how locals get to work can help you plan your own routine. High car usage might mean you’ll need a vehicle, while strong public transit or walkability could save you the hassle. Commute times also play a big role in quality of life—shorter trips can give you more time for the things you enjoy.

What is the median and average household income in El Dorado by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
71730 29,760 11,507 $55,770 $74,781

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FAQs about El Dorado demographics 

What is the total population of El Dorado?

El Dorado has a total population of 17,115 residents, according to the latest release from the U.S. Census Bureau: the 2019-2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates. This figure changed by -1.5% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in El Dorado?

The gender ratio in El Dorado is as follows:
  • 47.6% males (8,141 residents)
  • 52.4% females (8,974 residents)

What is the median age in El Dorado?

The median age in El Dorado is 36.6.

What is the age distribution of the population in El Dorado?

The age distribution in El Dorado is as follows:
  • Under 15: 21.2% (3,619 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.6% (1,986 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 27.5% (4,710 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 21.4% (3,669 residents)
  • Over 65: 18.3% (3,131 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of El Dorado?

The racial and ethnic makeup of El Dorado is as follows:
  • White: 43.2% (7,403 residents)
  • Black or African American: 49.2% (8,413 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.3% (57 residents)
  • Asian: 1.7% (298 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 4.8% (822 residents)
  • Other: 0.7% (122 residents)

What percentage of the population in El Dorado are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 95.7% of the population in El Dorado.

How many housing units are there in El Dorado?

There are 7,895 housing units in El Dorado, reflecting a +0.5% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in El Dorado and what is the average household size?

El Dorado has a total of 6,561 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in El Dorado?

El Dorado has a median household income of $49,244, representing a +9.1% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for El Dorado?

The employment rate is 93% in El Dorado, with a workforce of 6,964 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 68.8% (4,794 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 31.2% (2,170 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 10.1% (706 residents)
  • Private companies: 73.5% (5,121 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 12.7% (883 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 3.6% (254 residents)

Data source & methodology

The demographic data on this page was sourced from the latest U.S. Census Bureau release—the 2019–2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates.

The information, issued annually, is compiled and published by the Point2Homes Research Team as soon as new data becomes available.

No representation, guarantee, or warranty is made concerning the accuracy or completeness of modified or aggregated information for particular areas.

Page last updated: September 2025