Empire, CO
Population 549 · Colorado
About Empire, CO
Empire is a small community located in Colorado with a population of 549 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $63,092 per year, which is 16% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 44.5 years is notably older the US median age of 38.9 years, suggesting a more established community with a higher proportion of long-term residents.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Empire features a median home value of $297,600, which is 22% above the national median of $244,900. This positions Empire in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,566, 35% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 327 total housing units, 59% are owner-occupied (180 units) and 41% are renter-occupied (125 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Empire shows an unemployment rate of 4.4%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 12.9%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Empire have an average one-way commute time of 21.1 minutes.
Education & Demographics
18.4% of Empire 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 1.3% White, 1.8% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 1.8% Asian residents, with 0.5% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Empire, CO
Compared to national averages, Empire has a median household income of $63,092 (16% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $297,600, which is 22% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,566 is 35% above the US average of $1,163. Within Colorado, Empire's income is 29% below the state average of $88,514, and home values are 35% below the state median of $457,127.
Why Live in Empire, CO?
Empire offers short commute times averaging just 21.1 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($63,092) that falls below the national average. However, Empire’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Empire has a population of 549 with a median age of 44.5 years. Compare Empire with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Colorado.
Similar Cities Near Empire
Cities in Colorado with a similar population size.
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Colorado
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Empire
What is the population of Empire, CO?
The population of Empire, CO is 549 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small community in Colorado.
What is the median household income in Empire?
The median household income in Empire, CO is $63,092 per year, which is 16% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Empire?
The median home value in Empire, CO is $297,600, which is 22% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Empire?
The median monthly rent in Empire, CO is $1,566, which is 35% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Empire?
The unemployment rate in Empire, CO is 4.4%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Empire, CO a good place to live?
Empire offers a moderate cost of living, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 549 and a median age of 44.5, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Empire, CO?
18.4% of residents in Empire 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 Empire?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Empire, CO: median home value is $297,600 (22% above national), median rent is $1,566/month, and median household income is $63,092. The home-value-to-income ratio is 4.7x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in Empire?
The poverty rate in Empire, CO is 12.9%, 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 Empire, CO?
Empire's population is 1.3% White, 1.8% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 1.8% Asian, and 0.5% two or more races. 0.5% of residents are foreign-born.