Elk County, PA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
30,506
-0.6% year-over-year change
Median household income
$66,380/yr
3.5% year-over-year change
Housing units
16,880
0.0% year-over-year change

Elk County population

How many people live in Elk County

Elk County is home to 30,506 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 51% of Elk County locals are male, and 49% are female.

Total population
30,506
-0.6% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
51%
15,552
Female
49%
14,954
Value Percent YoY change
Male 15,552 51% -0.6%
Female 14,954 49% -0.7%
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 Elk County is 48, with the population distributed as follows: about 15.6% are children under 15, then 10.2% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 20.7% of the population, while another 29.4% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 24.2% are 65 or older.

Median age
48.4
Age breakdown
Under 15
15.6%
15 to 24
10.2%
25 to 44
20.7%
45 to 64
29.4%
Over 65
24.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 4,748 15.6% -0.5%
15 to 24 3,110 10.2% -2.1%
25 to 44 6,323 20.7% 0.1%
45 to 64 8,959 29.4% -3.1%
Over 65 7,366 24.2% 2.5%
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 Elk County, 98.4% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.4% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.2% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 95% of locals are Caucasian, 0.6% are African American and 0.4% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 3.8% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
98.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.4%
Non-citizens
0.2%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 30,027 98.4% -0.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 422 1.4% -4.7%
Non-citizens 57 0.2% -60.1%
Racial breakdown
White
95%
Black or African American
0.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
0.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
3.8%
Other
0.2%
Value Percent
White 28,966 95%
Black or African American 184 0.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 4 0%
Asian 130 0.4%
Two or more races 1,156 3.8%
Other 66 0.2%

Households in Elk County

A peek inside Elk County households

Elk County has 13,325 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 62.1% are families, while the remaining 37.9% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
13,325
-1.2% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
5,051
Family households
8,274
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 5,051 37.9% -5.5%
Family households 8,274 62.1% 1.7%
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 Elk County

The housing landscape of Elk County

Elk County's housing consists of 16,880 units, with 81% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1.1% 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 6.5% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
16,880
0.0% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 13,681 81%
1 unit, attached 185 1.1%
2 units 607 3.6%
3 or 4 units 522 3.1%
5 to 9 units 295 1.8%
10 to 19 units 71 0.4%
20 to 49 units 142 0.8%
50 or more units 277 1.6%
Mobile home 1,094 6.5%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 6 0%
Homes built since 2020
142
46.4% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Elk County

In Elk County, the median construction year is 1961. About 23.6% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 7.6% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 4% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 2.9% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.8% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 3,987 23.6% -2.0%
Built between 1940 and 1949 1,277 7.6% 3.4%
Built between 1950 and 1959 2,885 17.1% -1.5%
Built between 1960 and 1969 2,074 12.3% 3.5%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,296 13.6% 6.4%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,625 9.6% 3.5%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,416 8.4% -1.5%
Built between 2000 and 2009 681 4% -15.4%
Built between 2010 and 2019 497 2.9% -13.3%
Built in 2020 or later 142 0.8% 46.4%
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.

Elk County occupancy rates

Out of the 13,325 occupied housing units in Elk County, 79.6% are owner-occupied, while 20.4% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 21.1% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
13,325
-1.2% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
2,725
Owner occupied
10,600
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 2,725 20.4% -4.4%
Owner occupied 10,600 79.6% -0.3%
Unoccupied housing units
21.1%
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.

Elk County housing costs

Housing costs in Elk County come to a median of $670 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $719.

Median housing costs per month
$670/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 Elk County
$719/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 Elk County

Elk County education at a glance

About 52.8% of the population in Elk County went to high school, while 13.7% pursued college studies. Another 12.2% earned an associate degree and 12.5% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 7.1% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 421 1.7% 0.2%
High school diploma 13,047 52.8% -3.2%
College diploma 3,391 13.7% 6.8%
Associate degree 3,005 12.2% -0.2%
Bachelor's degree 3,094 12.5% -5.3%
Graduate degree 1,763 7.1% 15.5%
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 Elk County

How much people earn in Elk County

The average annual household income in Elk County was $81,773 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $66,380, reflecting a +3.6% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Elk County
$81,773/year
2.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in Elk County
$66,380/year
3.5% year-over-year change

Elk County income by age

In Elk County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $79,802. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $74,741 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $50,288, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $47,629 in earnings. Overall, 91.3% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $50,288 24.7%
25 - 44 $79,802 0.7%
45 - 64 $74,741 -2.6%
Over 65 $47,629 0.1%
Above poverty level
27,351
Below poverty level
2,595
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 27,351 91.3% -0.1%
Below poverty level 2,595 8.7% -4.7%

Employment in Elk County

Workforce and job types in Elk County

The job market in Elk County is powered by 14,570 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 58.6% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 41.4% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 7.3% run their own businesses, 71% are employed by private companies, and 9.4% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
14,570
-1.9% year-over-year change
White collar
8,543
Blue collar
6,027
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 8,543 58.6% -3.4%
Blue collar 6,027 41.4% 0.3%
Employer type
Self employees
7.3%
Private companies
71%
Governmental workers
9.4%
Not for profit companies
12.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,058 7.3% 15.2%
Private companies 10,338 71% -4.4%
Governmental workers 1,363 9.4% 10.3%
Not for profit companies 1,811 12.4% -4.2%
Unemployment rate
5.6%
-11.5% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Elk County stands at 5.6%, 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 Elk County

How people get around in Elk County

Commuting methods vary: 92.8% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.6% 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 13,347 92.8% -0.9%
Taxicab 3 0% N/A
Bus or trolleybus 26 0.2% 0.0%
Ferryboat 30 0.2% -18.9%
Motorcycle 46 0.3% 0.0%
Bicycle 2 0% -95.9%
Walk 232 1.6% -37.1%
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 Elk County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
15827 301 102 $83,125 $84,401
15832 289 156 $38,125 $56,374
15841 226 114 $31,071 $45,726
15845 3,121 1,345 $68,347 $76,891
15846 3,408 1,397 $70,662 $97,412
15853 6,420 2,767 $59,344 $75,944
15857 12,736 5,756 $67,662 $80,436
15860 1,160 525 $65,774 $70,951
15821 74 47 $55,313 $58,636
15823 1,266 577 $51,125 $69,588

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FAQs about Elk County demographics 

What is the total population of Elk County?

Elk County has a total population of 30,506 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 -0.6% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Elk County?

The gender ratio in Elk County is as follows:
  • 51% males (15,552 residents)
  • 49% females (14,954 residents)

What is the median age in Elk County?

The median age in Elk County is 48.4.

What is the age distribution of the population in Elk County?

The age distribution in Elk County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 15.6% (4,748 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 10.2% (3,110 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 20.7% (6,323 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 29.4% (8,959 residents)
  • Over 65: 24.2% (7,366 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Elk County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Elk County is as follows:
  • White: 95% (28,966 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.6% (184 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% (4 residents)
  • Asian: 0.4% (130 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 3.8% (1,156 residents)
  • Other: 0.2% (66 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 98.4% of the population in Elk County.

How many housing units are there in Elk County?

There are 16,880 housing units in Elk County, reflecting a +0.0% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Elk County has a total of 13,325 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Elk County?

Elk County has a median household income of $66,380, representing a +3.5% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Elk County?

The employment rate is 94.4% in Elk County, with a workforce of 14,570 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 58.6% (8,543 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 41.4% (6,027 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 7.3% (1,058 residents)
  • Private companies: 71% (10,338 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 9.4% (1,363 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 12.4% (1,811 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