Elko, NV demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
20,696
0.3% year-over-year change
Median household income
$79,036/yr
4.5% year-over-year change
Housing units
8,589
-5.0% year-over-year change

Elko population

How many people live in Elko

Elko is home to 20,696 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 51.4% of Elko locals are male, and 48.6% are female.

Total population
20,696
0.3% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
51.4%
10,630
Female
48.6%
10,066
Value Percent YoY change
Male 10,630 51.4% -3.3%
Female 10,066 48.6% 4.5%
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 Elko is 33, with the population distributed as follows: about 21.5% are children under 15, then 14.6% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 31.6% of the population, while another 19.9% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 12.4% are 65 or older.

Median age
33.2
Age breakdown
Under 15
21.5%
15 to 24
14.6%
25 to 44
31.6%
45 to 64
19.9%
Over 65
12.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 4,444 21.5% 0.4%
15 to 24 3,027 14.6% 13.5%
25 to 44 6,536 31.6% 1.4%
45 to 64 4,125 19.9% -7.1%
Over 65 2,564 12.4% -3.1%
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 Elko, 91.2% of the population are US-born citizens, while 3.5% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 5.3% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 66% of locals are Caucasian, 1.1% are African American and 2.9% have Asian roots. Another 3.9% are Indigenous American, 0.3% are Pacific Islanders, while 11.2% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 14.6% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
91.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
3.5%
Non-citizens
5.3%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 18,867 91.2% -0.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 730 3.5% -14.1%
Non-citizens 1,099 5.3% 34.7%
Racial breakdown
White
66%
Black or African American
1.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native
3.9%
Asian
2.9%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.3%
Two or more races
14.6%
Other
11.2%
Value Percent
White 13,669 66%
Black or African American 223 1.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native 807 3.9%
Asian 594 2.9%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 65 0.3%
Two or more races 3,027 14.6%
Other 2,311 11.2%

Households in Elko

A peek inside Elko households

Elko has 7,608 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 60.9% are families, while the remaining 39.1% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
7,608
-6.3% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
2,974
Family households
4,634
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 2,974 39.1% -7.5%
Family households 4,634 60.9% -5.6%
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 Elko

The housing landscape of Elko

Elko's housing consists of 8,589 units, with 52% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 2.6% 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 16.8% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
8,589
-5.0% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 4,467 52%
1 unit, attached 225 2.6%
2 units 403 4.7%
3 or 4 units 491 5.7%
5 to 9 units 743 8.6%
10 to 19 units 232 2.7%
20 to 49 units 138 1.6%
50 or more units 331 3.8%
Mobile home 1,443 16.8%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 116 1.4%
Homes built since 2020
171
20.4% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Elko

In Elko, the median construction year is 1988. About 8.4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5.1% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 8% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 15.9% 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 726 8.4% -12.3%
Built between 1940 and 1949 440 5.1% -5.2%
Built between 1950 and 1959 364 4.2% -14.2%
Built between 1960 and 1969 432 5% -31.8%
Built between 1970 and 1979 828 9.6% -32.0%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,943 22.6% 5.1%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,634 19% 9.7%
Built between 2000 and 2009 688 8% -1.4%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,363 15.9% 5.2%
Built in 2020 or later 171 2% 20.4%
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.

Elko occupancy rates

Out of the 7,608 occupied housing units in Elko, 62.6% are owner-occupied, while 37.4% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 11.4% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
7,608
-6.3% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
2,849
Owner occupied
4,759
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 2,849 37.4% -6.6%
Owner occupied 4,759 62.6% -6.2%
Unoccupied housing units
11.4%
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.

Elko housing costs

Housing costs in Elko come to a median of $1,287 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,267.

Median housing costs per month
$1,287/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 Elko
$1,267/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 Elko

Elko education at a glance

About 45.4% of the population in Elko went to high school, while 23.9% pursued college studies. Another 10% earned an associate degree and 9.4% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 5.5% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 909 5.8% 2.1%
High school diploma 7,108 45.4% 14.1%
College diploma 3,740 23.9% -8.3%
Associate degree 1,562 10% -9.3%
Bachelor's degree 1,477 9.4% -5.6%
Graduate degree 857 5.5% -26.2%
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 Elko

How much people earn in Elko

The average annual household income in Elko was $96,637 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.5% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $79,036, reflecting a +4.5% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Elko
$96,637/year
2.5% year-over-year change
Median household income in Elko
$79,036/year
4.5% year-over-year change

Elko income by age

In Elko, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $84,818. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $98,266 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $69,309, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $52,286 in earnings. Overall, 86.1% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $69,309 5.2%
25 - 44 $84,818 5.6%
45 - 64 $98,266 4.8%
Over 65 $52,286 5.5%
Above poverty level
17,242
Below poverty level
2,777
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 17,242 86.1% -0.8%
Below poverty level 2,777 13.9% 13.0%

Average renter income in Elko

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Elko, their median household income was $61,883 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 24.6%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$61,883
Rent-to-income ratio
24.6%
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 Elko

Workforce and job types in Elko

The job market in Elko is powered by 10,315 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 64% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 36% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 6.6% run their own businesses, 74.3% are employed by private companies, and 13.6% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
10,315
-3.7% year-over-year change
White collar
6,604
Blue collar
3,711
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 6,604 64% -8.9%
Blue collar 3,711 36% 7.2%
Employer type
Self employees
6.6%
Private companies
74.3%
Governmental workers
13.6%
Not for profit companies
5.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 680 6.6% -14.1%
Private companies 7,660 74.3% -4.5%
Governmental workers 1,398 13.6% -1.8%
Not for profit companies 577 5.6% 21.0%
Unemployment rate
5.2%
15.3% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Elko stands at 5.2%, 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 Elko

How people get around in Elko

In Elko, the average commute time is 27 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 81.2% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 3.4% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
27 min
10.8% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 8,357 81.2% -1.6%
Bus or trolleybus 1,149 11.2% -10.0%
Motorcycle 21 0.2% 23.5%
Walk 349 3.4% -11.4%
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 Elko by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
89801 26,480 9,585 $82,144 $104,081

Find your place

Explore more communities

FAQs about Elko demographics 

What is the total population of Elko?

Elko has a total population of 20,696 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 +0.3% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Elko?

The gender ratio in Elko is as follows:
  • 51.4% males (10,630 residents)
  • 48.6% females (10,066 residents)

What is the median age in Elko?

The median age in Elko is 33.2.

What is the age distribution of the population in Elko?

The age distribution in Elko is as follows:
  • Under 15: 21.5% (4,444 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 14.6% (3,027 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 31.6% (6,536 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 19.9% (4,125 residents)
  • Over 65: 12.4% (2,564 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Elko?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Elko is as follows:
  • White: 66% (13,669 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1.1% (223 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 3.9% (807 residents)
  • Asian: 2.9% (594 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.3% (65 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 14.6% (3,027 residents)
  • Other: 11.2% (2,311 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 91.2% of the population in Elko.

How many housing units are there in Elko?

There are 8,589 housing units in Elko, reflecting a -5.0% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Elko has a total of 7,608 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Elko?

Elko has a median household income of $79,036, representing a +4.5% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 94.8% in Elko, with a workforce of 10,315 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 64% (6,604 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 36% (3,711 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 6.6% (680 residents)
  • Private companies: 74.3% (7,660 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 13.6% (1,398 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 5.6% (577 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