Lake Elmo, MN demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
13,140
5.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$153,669/yr
0.2% year-over-year change
Housing units
4,897
3.2% year-over-year change

Lake Elmo population

How many people live in Lake Elmo

Lake Elmo is home to 13,140 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.6% of Lake Elmo locals are male, and 50.4% are female.

Total population
13,140
5.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.6%
6,514
Female
50.4%
6,626
Value Percent YoY change
Male 6,514 49.6% 5.5%
Female 6,626 50.4% 4.7%
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 Lake Elmo is 41, with the population distributed as follows: about 21.2% are children under 15, then 11.3% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 24% of the population, while another 26.7% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 16.9% are 65 or older.

Median age
40.8
Age breakdown
Under 15
21.2%
15 to 24
11.3%
25 to 44
24%
45 to 64
26.7%
Over 65
16.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 2,787 21.2% 3.1%
15 to 24 1,481 11.3% 4.2%
25 to 44 3,151 24% 3.2%
45 to 64 3,504 26.7% 0.3%
Over 65 2,217 16.9% 20.8%
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 Lake Elmo, 94.3% of the population are US-born citizens, while 4.2% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.5% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 87.3% of locals are Caucasian, 2.3% are African American and 3.2% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 3.9% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
94.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
4.2%
Non-citizens
1.5%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 12,396 94.3% 5.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 550 4.2% 24.1%
Non-citizens 194 1.5% -27.6%
Racial breakdown
White
87.3%
Black or African American
2.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
3.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
3.9%
Other
3.3%
Value Percent
White 11,473 87.3%
Black or African American 300 2.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native 1 0%
Asian 420 3.2%
Two or more races 509 3.9%
Other 437 3.3%

Households in Lake Elmo

A peek inside Lake Elmo households

Lake Elmo has 4,714 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 81.6% are families, while the remaining 18.4% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
4,714
3.0% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
865
Family households
3,849
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 865 18.4% -3.2%
Family households 3,849 81.6% 4.6%
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 Lake Elmo

The housing landscape of Lake Elmo

Lake Elmo's housing consists of 4,897 units, with 79.6% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 4.6% and offer a more compact, shared living style. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 11.7% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
4,897
3.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 3,900 79.6%
1 unit, attached 226 4.6%
2 units 71 1.4%
20 to 49 units 13 0.3%
50 or more units 113 2.3%
Mobile home 574 11.7%
Homes built since 2020
486
17.4% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Lake Elmo

In Lake Elmo, the median construction year is 2004. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 12.5% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 32.2% between 2010 and 2019, and 9.9% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 148 3% -27.4%
Built between 1950 and 1959 270 5.5% 1.1%
Built between 1960 and 1969 274 5.6% 25.7%
Built between 1970 and 1979 536 11% -4.8%
Built between 1980 and 1989 314 6.4% 6.4%
Built between 1990 and 1999 678 13.8% 0.6%
Built between 2000 and 2009 613 12.5% 5.9%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,578 32.2% 4.0%
Built in 2020 or later 486 9.9% 17.4%
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.

Lake Elmo occupancy rates

Out of the 4,714 occupied housing units in Lake Elmo, 93.5% are owner-occupied, while 6.5% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 3.7% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
4,714
3.0% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
305
Owner occupied
4,409
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 305 6.5% -13.1%
Owner occupied 4,409 93.5% 4.4%
Unoccupied housing units
3.7%
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.

Lake Elmo housing costs

Housing costs in Lake Elmo come to a median of $2,107 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $2,407.

Median housing costs per month
$2,107/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 Lake Elmo
$2,407/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 Lake Elmo

Lake Elmo education at a glance

About 17.5% of the population in Lake Elmo went to high school, while 16.2% pursued college studies. Another 7.6% earned an associate degree and 36.6% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 21.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 41 0.4% -33.9%
High school diploma 1,682 17.5% 7.8%
College diploma 1,557 16.2% 0.3%
Associate degree 732 7.6% 7.5%
Bachelor's degree 3,506 36.6% 7.2%
Graduate degree 2,069 21.6% 3.5%
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 Lake Elmo

How much people earn in Lake Elmo

The average annual household income in Lake Elmo was $212,445 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -2.2% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $153,669, reflecting a +0.2% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Lake Elmo
$212,445/year
-2.2% year-over-year change
Median household income in Lake Elmo
$153,669/year
0.2% year-over-year change

Lake Elmo income by age

In Lake Elmo, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $250,001. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $182,438 overall. Overall, 95.1% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $250,001 13.1%
45 - 64 $182,438 -2.6%
Over 65 $73,858 -2.4%
Above poverty level
12,325
Below poverty level
631
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 12,325 95.1% 5.6%
Below poverty level 631 4.9% 18.6%

Average renter income in Lake Elmo

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Lake Elmo, their median household income was $41,688 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 69.3%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$41,688
Rent-to-income ratio
69.3%
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 Lake Elmo

Workforce and job types in Lake Elmo

The job market in Lake Elmo is powered by 6,255 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 91.4% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 8.6% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 10.8% run their own businesses, 64.8% are employed by private companies, and 10.6% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
6,255
-1.2% year-over-year change
White collar
5,720
Blue collar
535
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 5,720 91.4% -0.5%
Blue collar 535 8.6% -7.8%
Employer type
Self employees
10.8%
Private companies
64.8%
Governmental workers
10.6%
Not for profit companies
13.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 675 10.8% -13.1%
Private companies 4,055 64.8% -3.6%
Governmental workers 664 10.6% -6.0%
Not for profit companies 861 13.8% 34.7%
Unemployment rate
2.3%
-2.6% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Lake Elmo stands at 2.3%, 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 Lake Elmo

How people get around in Lake Elmo

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 3,861 62.1% -1.7%
Bus or trolleybus 12 0.2% -64.7%
Bicycle 14 0.2% -17.6%
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 Lake Elmo by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
55042 13,705 4,921 $154,341 $215,081

Find your place

Explore more communities

FAQs about Lake Elmo demographics 

What is the total population of Lake Elmo?

Lake Elmo has a total population of 13,140 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 +5.1% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Lake Elmo?

The gender ratio in Lake Elmo is as follows:
  • 49.6% males (6,514 residents)
  • 50.4% females (6,626 residents)

What is the median age in Lake Elmo?

The median age in Lake Elmo is 40.8.

What is the age distribution of the population in Lake Elmo?

The age distribution in Lake Elmo is as follows:
  • Under 15: 21.2% (2,787 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.3% (1,481 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 24% (3,151 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 26.7% (3,504 residents)
  • Over 65: 16.9% (2,217 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Lake Elmo?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Lake Elmo is as follows:
  • White: 87.3% (11,473 residents)
  • Black or African American: 2.3% (300 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% (1 residents)
  • Asian: 3.2% (420 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 3.9% (509 residents)
  • Other: 3.3% (437 residents)

What percentage of the population in Lake Elmo are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 94.3% of the population in Lake Elmo.

How many housing units are there in Lake Elmo?

There are 4,897 housing units in Lake Elmo, reflecting a +3.2% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Lake Elmo and what is the average household size?

Lake Elmo has a total of 4,714 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Lake Elmo?

Lake Elmo has a median household income of $153,669, representing a +0.2% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Lake Elmo?

The employment rate is 97.7% in Lake Elmo, with a workforce of 6,255 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 91.4% (5,720 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 8.6% (535 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 10.8% (675 residents)
  • Private companies: 64.8% (4,055 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 10.6% (664 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 13.8% (861 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