Nelson, AZ
Population 316 · Arizona
About Nelson, AZ
Nelson is a small community located in Arizona with a population of 316 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $54,115 per year, which is 28% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 34.1 years is notably younger the US median age of 38.9 years, indicating a younger, often more dynamic population base.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Nelson features a median home value of $98,400, which is 60% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Nelson one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $0, 100% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 112 total housing units, 100% are owner-occupied (82 units) and 0% are renter-occupied (0 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Nelson shows an unemployment rate of 10.9%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 17.7%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Nelson have an average one-way commute time of 43.4 minutes, suggesting many residents commute to jobs in a nearby metro area.
Education & Demographics
6.7% of Nelson residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The lower educational attainment rate may reflect the area's industry mix, with more employment in trades, manufacturing, or agricultural sectors. The community's demographic composition includes 73.1% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 0.0% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Nelson, AZ
Compared to national averages, Nelson has a median household income of $54,115 (28% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $98,400, which is 60% below the national median. Monthly rent at $0 is 100% below the US average of $1,163. Within Arizona, Nelson's income is 13% below the state average of $62,086, and home values are 58% below the state median of $237,048.
Why Live in Nelson, AZ?
Nelson offers affordable housing with a median home value of $98,400, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $0/month.
Potential considerations include median household income ($54,115) that falls below the national average. However, Nelson’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Nelson has a population of 316 with a median age of 34.1 years. Compare Nelson with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Arizona.
Similar Cities Near Nelson
Cities in Arizona with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fort Thomas | 319 | $101,083 | $152,500 | Compare |
| Greasewood | 313 | $23,125 | $156,300 | Compare |
| Picacho | 320 | $78,125 | $0 | Compare |
| Oak Creek Canyon | 321 | $37,330 | $326,900 | Compare |
| Indian Wells | 325 | $45,938 | $72,200 | Compare |
| Jerome | 329 | $37,031 | $312,100 | Compare |
| Winslow West | 330 | $34,417 | $304,500 | Compare |
| San Miguel | 301 | $0 | $268,800 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Arizona
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare Nelson With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Nelson
What is the population of Nelson, AZ?
The population of Nelson, AZ is 316 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small community in Arizona.
What is the median household income in Nelson?
The median household income in Nelson, AZ is $54,115 per year, which is 28% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Nelson?
The median home value in Nelson, AZ is $98,400, which is 60% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Nelson?
The median monthly rent in Nelson, AZ is $0, which is 100% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Nelson?
The unemployment rate in Nelson, AZ is 10.9%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Nelson, AZ a good place to live?
Nelson offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 316 and a median age of 34.1, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Nelson, AZ?
6.7% of residents in Nelson aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The educational profile reflects the area's industry mix and employment landscape.
What is the cost of living in Nelson?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Nelson, AZ: median home value is $98,400 (60% below national), median rent is $0/month, and median household income is $54,115. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.8x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Nelson?
The poverty rate in Nelson, AZ is 17.7%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. Residents and prospective movers should be aware of the economic challenges facing parts of this community.
How diverse is Nelson, AZ?
Nelson's population is 73.1% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 0.0% of residents are foreign-born.