Elon, NC demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
11,032
-2.6% year-over-year change
Median household income
$84,773/yr
2.5% year-over-year change
Housing units
3,040
-9.9% year-over-year change

Elon population

How many people live in Elon

Elon is home to 11,032 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 40.1% of Elon locals are male, and 59.9% are female.

Total population
11,032
-2.6% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
40.1%
4,420
Female
59.9%
6,612
Value Percent YoY change
Male 4,420 40.1% -8.4%
Female 6,612 59.9% 1.7%
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 Elon is 21, with the population distributed as follows: about 6.7% are children under 15, then 54.2% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 10.6% of the population, while another 15.2% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 13.2% are 65 or older.

Median age
21.2
Age breakdown
Under 15
6.7%
15 to 24
54.2%
25 to 44
10.6%
45 to 64
15.2%
Over 65
13.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 744 6.7% -8.4%
15 to 24 5,980 54.2% 3.6%
25 to 44 1,169 10.6% -12.0%
45 to 64 1,679 15.2% -2.3%
Over 65 1,460 13.2% -13.8%
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 Elon, 94.8% of the population are US-born citizens, while 3.4% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.8% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 79.5% of locals are Caucasian, 10.5% are African American and 4.2% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 5% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
94.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
3.4%
Non-citizens
1.8%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 10,456 94.8% -3.0%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 381 3.4% 15.4%
Non-citizens 195 1.8% -8.4%
Racial breakdown
White
79.5%
Black or African American
10.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.5%
Asian
4.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
5%
Other
0.3%
Value Percent
White 8,770 79.5%
Black or African American 1,156 10.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native 59 0.5%
Asian 465 4.2%
Two or more races 551 5%
Other 31 0.3%

Households in Elon

A peek inside Elon households

Elon has 2,456 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 70% are families, while the remaining 30% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
2,456
-13.9% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
738
Family households
1,718
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 738 30% -25.4%
Family households 1,718 70% -7.9%
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 Elon

The housing landscape of Elon

Elon's housing consists of 3,040 units, with 67.7% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 9.4% 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 2.7% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
3,040
-9.9% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 2,058 67.7%
1 unit, attached 285 9.4%
2 units 76 2.5%
3 or 4 units 128 4.2%
5 to 9 units 129 4.2%
10 to 19 units 112 3.7%
20 to 49 units 144 4.7%
50 or more units 26 0.9%
Mobile home 82 2.7%
Homes built since 2020
62
588.9% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Elon

In Elon, the median construction year is 1997. About 0.6% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 1.4% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 29% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 14% between 2010 and 2019, and 2% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 18 0.6% -56.1%
Built between 1940 and 1949 43 1.4% -6.5%
Built between 1950 and 1959 181 6% 1.7%
Built between 1960 and 1969 85 2.8% 63.5%
Built between 1970 and 1979 313 10.3% -14.0%
Built between 1980 and 1989 496 16.3% 4.4%
Built between 1990 and 1999 534 17.6% -20.8%
Built between 2000 and 2009 882 29% -17.6%
Built between 2010 and 2019 426 14% -8.2%
Built in 2020 or later 62 2% 588.9%
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.

Elon occupancy rates

Out of the 2,456 occupied housing units in Elon, 70.1% are owner-occupied, while 29.9% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 19.2% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
2,456
-13.9% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
734
Owner occupied
1,722
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 734 29.9% -24.4%
Owner occupied 1,722 70.1% -8.6%
Unoccupied housing units
19.2%
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.

Elon housing costs

Housing costs in Elon come to a median of $1,649 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $2,080.

Median housing costs per month
$1,649/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 Elon
$2,080/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 Elon

Elon education at a glance

About 21.4% of the population in Elon went to high school, while 46.3% pursued college studies. Another 6.6% earned an associate degree and 12.1% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 12.3% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 142 1.4% -13.9%
High school diploma 2,106 21.4% -2.9%
College diploma 4,559 46.3% 4.7%
Associate degree 646 6.6% -1.2%
Bachelor's degree 1,193 12.1% -23.2%
Graduate degree 1,208 12.3% 5.6%
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 Elon

How much people earn in Elon

The average annual household income in Elon was $121,953 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +5.1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $84,773, reflecting a +2.5% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Elon
$121,953/year
5.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in Elon
$84,773/year
2.5% year-over-year change

Elon income by age

In Elon, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $131,087. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $123,393 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $15,903, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $67,279 in earnings. Overall, 80% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $15,903 7.8%
25 - 44 $131,087 -19.8%
45 - 64 $123,393 -7.6%
Over 65 $67,279 4.2%
Above poverty level
5,232
Below poverty level
1,311
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 5,232 80% -8.7%
Below poverty level 1,311 20% -22.0%

Average renter income in Elon

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Elon, their median household income was $33,917 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 73.6%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$33,917
Rent-to-income ratio
73.6%
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 Elon

Workforce and job types in Elon

The job market in Elon is powered by 4,078 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 89.5% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 10.5% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9.9% run their own businesses, 62.3% are employed by private companies, and 15.5% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
4,078
-9.3% year-over-year change
White collar
3,649
Blue collar
429
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 3,649 89.5% -8.2%
Blue collar 429 10.5% -17.5%
Employer type
Self employees
9.9%
Private companies
62.3%
Governmental workers
15.5%
Not for profit companies
12.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 403 9.9% -20.8%
Private companies 2,540 62.3% -11.7%
Governmental workers 632 15.5% 6.0%
Not for profit companies 503 12.3% -1.9%
Unemployment rate
5.0%
66.9% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Elon stands at 5%, 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 Elon

How people get around in Elon

In Elon, the average commute time is 20 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 67% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 19.6% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
20 min
-5.2% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 2,706 67% -17.9%
Bicycle 27 0.7% -6.9%
Walk 790 19.6% 16.5%
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 Elon by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
27244 16,329 4,509 $75,323 $104,293

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FAQs about Elon demographics 

What is the total population of Elon?

Elon has a total population of 11,032 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 -2.6% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Elon?

The gender ratio in Elon is as follows:
  • 40.1% males (4,420 residents)
  • 59.9% females (6,612 residents)

What is the median age in Elon?

The median age in Elon is 21.2.

What is the age distribution of the population in Elon?

The age distribution in Elon is as follows:
  • Under 15: 6.7% (744 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 54.2% (5,980 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 10.6% (1,169 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 15.2% (1,679 residents)
  • Over 65: 13.2% (1,460 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Elon?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Elon is as follows:
  • White: 79.5% (8,770 residents)
  • Black or African American: 10.5% (1,156 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.5% (59 residents)
  • Asian: 4.2% (465 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 5% (551 residents)
  • Other: 0.3% (31 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 94.8% of the population in Elon.

How many housing units are there in Elon?

There are 3,040 housing units in Elon, reflecting a -9.9% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Elon has a total of 2,456 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Elon?

Elon has a median household income of $84,773, representing a +2.5% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Elon?

The employment rate is 95% in Elon, with a workforce of 4,078 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 89.5% (3,649 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 10.5% (429 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9.9% (403 residents)
  • Private companies: 62.3% (2,540 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 15.5% (632 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 12.3% (503 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