South Elmwood, Providence, RI demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
5,658
0.5% year-over-year change
Median household income
$57,696/yr
8.2% year-over-year change
Housing units
2,196
0.5% year-over-year change

South Elmwood population

How many people live in South Elmwood

South Elmwood is home to 5,658 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.9% of South Elmwood locals are male, and 51.2% are female.

Total population
5,658
0.5% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.9%
2,765
Female
51.2%
2,894
Value Percent YoY change
Male 2,765 48.9% 0.1%
Female 2,894 51.2% 0.9%
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 South Elmwood is 35, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.3% are children under 15, then 16.1% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 27.8% of the population, while another 25.5% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 12.3% are 65 or older.

Median age
35
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.3%
15 to 24
16.1%
25 to 44
27.8%
45 to 64
25.5%
Over 65
12.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 1,038 18.3% -1.3%
15 to 24 909 16.1% -7.2%
25 to 44 1,575 27.8% 7.7%
45 to 64 1,441 25.5% 0.5%
Over 65 696 12.3% -1.1%
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 South Elmwood, 52.1% of the population are US-born citizens, while 26% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 21.9% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 27.2% of locals are Caucasian, 12.5% are African American and 4% have Asian roots. Another 1% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 32.8% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 22.4% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
52.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
26%
Non-citizens
21.9%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 2,947 52.1% -0.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 1,472 26% 4.5%
Non-citizens 1,240 21.9% -2.4%
Racial breakdown
White
27.2%
Black or African American
12.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1%
Asian
4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
22.4%
Other
32.8%
Value Percent
White 1,542 27.2%
Black or African American 707 12.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native 55 1%
Asian 224 4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 4 0.1%
Two or more races 1,269 22.4%
Other 1,858 32.8%

Households in South Elmwood

A peek inside South Elmwood households

South Elmwood has 2,081 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 60.6% are families, while the remaining 39.4% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
2,081
1.4% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
820
Family households
1,262
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 820 39.4% 4.5%
Family households 1,262 60.6% -0.4%
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 South Elmwood

The housing landscape of South Elmwood

South Elmwood's housing consists of 2,196 units, with 33.1% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 4.3% 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 0.6% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
2,196
0.5% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 727 33.1%
1 unit, attached 94 4.3%
2 units 409 18.6%
3 or 4 units 545 24.8%
5 to 9 units 146 6.6%
10 to 19 units 69 3.1%
20 to 49 units 49 2.2%
50 or more units 145 6.6%
Mobile home 12 0.6%
Homes built since 2020
10
66.7% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in South Elmwood

In South Elmwood, the median construction year is 1938. About 58.8% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 6.4% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 6.3% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 2% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.5% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,291 58.8% 1.5%
Built between 1940 and 1949 140 6.4% 8.5%
Built between 1950 and 1959 142 6.5% -22.4%
Built between 1960 and 1969 133 6.1% 6.4%
Built between 1970 and 1979 109 5% -0.9%
Built between 1980 and 1989 115 5.2% 18.6%
Built between 1990 and 1999 72 3.3% -13.2%
Built between 2000 and 2009 138 6.3% -1.4%
Built between 2010 and 2019 44 2% 10.0%
Built in 2020 or later 10 0.5% 66.7%
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.

South Elmwood occupancy rates

Out of the 2,081 occupied housing units in South Elmwood, 42.5% are owner-occupied, while 57.5% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 5.2% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
2,081
1.4% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,197
Owner occupied
885
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,197 57.5% 3.6%
Owner occupied 885 42.5% -1.3%
Unoccupied housing units
5.2%
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.

South Elmwood housing costs

Housing costs in South Elmwood come to a median of $1,377 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,172.

Median housing costs per month
$1,377/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 South Elmwood
$1,172/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 South Elmwood

South Elmwood education at a glance

About 42.3% of the population in South Elmwood went to high school, while 17.3% pursued college studies. Another 6.1% earned an associate degree and 14% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 8.8% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 500 11.5% -0.2%
High school diploma 1,844 42.3% 0.6%
College diploma 755 17.3% -8.8%
Associate degree 267 6.1% 6.0%
Bachelor's degree 608 14% 11.4%
Graduate degree 385 8.8% 9.7%
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 South Elmwood

How much people earn in South Elmwood

The average annual household income in South Elmwood was $79,798 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +4.3% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $57,696, reflecting a +8.2% shift over the same period.

Average household income in South Elmwood
$79,798/year
4.3% year-over-year change
Median household income in South Elmwood
$57,696/year
8.2% year-over-year change

South Elmwood income by age

In South Elmwood, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $70,375. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $55,246 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $31,165, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $38,010 in earnings. Overall, 80.1% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $31,165 N/A
25 - 44 $70,375 6.1%
45 - 64 $55,246 -0.7%
Over 65 $38,010 -3.7%
Above poverty level
4,402
Below poverty level
1,092
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 4,402 80.1% 1.7%
Below poverty level 1,092 19.9% -2.3%

Employment in South Elmwood

Workforce and job types in South Elmwood

70.3% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 29.7% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9% run their own businesses, 65.6% are employed by private companies, and 9.7% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

White collar
1,910
Blue collar
806
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 1,910 70.3% 7.5%
Blue collar 806 29.7% -2.2%
Employer type
Self employees
9%
Private companies
65.6%
Governmental workers
9.7%
Not for profit companies
15.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 243 9% 14.1%
Private companies 1,782 65.6% 2.5%
Governmental workers 263 9.7% 13.4%
Not for profit companies 428 15.8% 2.9%

Transportation in South Elmwood

How people get around in South Elmwood

Commuting methods vary: 89.7% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 3.7% 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 2,100 89.7% 0.6%
Taxicab 49 2.1% 32.4%
Bus or trolleybus 74 3.2% -22.1%
Railroad 3 0.1% 0.0%
Bicycle 29 1.2% 107.1%
Walk 86 3.7% 48.3%
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 South Elmwood by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
02905 25,012 9,811 $62,908 $91,804
02907 31,461 10,982 $52,485 $68,958

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FAQs about South Elmwood demographics 

What is the total population of South Elmwood?

South Elmwood has a total population of 5,658 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 +0.5% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in South Elmwood?

The gender ratio in South Elmwood is as follows:
  • 48.9% males (2,765 residents)
  • 51.2% females (2,894 residents)

What is the median age in South Elmwood?

The median age in South Elmwood is 35.

What is the age distribution of the population in South Elmwood?

The age distribution in South Elmwood is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.3% (1,038 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 16.1% (909 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 27.8% (1,575 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25.5% (1,441 residents)
  • Over 65: 12.3% (696 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of South Elmwood?

The racial and ethnic makeup of South Elmwood is as follows:
  • White: 27.2% (1,542 residents)
  • Black or African American: 12.5% (707 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1% (55 residents)
  • Asian: 4% (224 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (4 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 22.4% (1,269 residents)
  • Other: 32.8% (1,858 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 52.1% of the population in South Elmwood.

How many housing units are there in South Elmwood?

There are 2,196 housing units in South Elmwood, 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 South Elmwood and what is the average household size?

South Elmwood has a total of 2,081 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in South Elmwood?

South Elmwood has a median household income of $57,696, representing a +8.2% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the job market overview for South Elmwood?

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 70.3% (1,910 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 29.7% (806 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9% (243 residents)
  • Private companies: 65.6% (1,782 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 9.7% (263 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 15.8% (428 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