Elko, NV
Population 20,624 · Nevada
About Elko, NV
Elko is a mid-sized city located in Nevada with a population of 20,624 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $75,630 per year, which is 1% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 34.3 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 Elko features a median home value of $285,400, which is 17% above the national median of $244,900. This positions Elko in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,174, 1% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 9,041 total housing units, 62% are owner-occupied (5,073 units) and 38% are renter-occupied (3,051 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Elko shows an unemployment rate of 4.4%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 12.3%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Elko have an average one-way commute time of 24 minutes.
Education & Demographics
18.9% of Elko 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 24.9% White, 5.6% Hispanic or Latino, 0.1% Black or African American, and 2.7% Asian residents, with 7.6% of the population being foreign-born.
How Elko Ranks in Nevada
Cost of Living in Elko, NV
Compared to national averages, Elko has a median household income of $75,630 (1% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $285,400, which is 17% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,174 is 1% above the US average of $1,163. Within Nevada, Elko's income is 8% below the state average of $81,841, and home values are 34% below the state median of $433,389.
Why Live in Elko, NV?
Elko offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $75,630, well above the national average, and a low poverty rate of 12.3%, better than the national average, and short commute times averaging just 24 minutes.
Elko has a population of 20,624 with a median age of 34.3 years. Compare Elko with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Nevada.
Similar Cities Near Elko
Cities in Nevada with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mesquite | 21,314 | $74,439 | $374,400 | Compare |
| Sun Valley | 22,697 | $76,108 | $321,000 | Compare |
| Fernley | 23,631 | $87,991 | $352,600 | Compare |
| Spanish Springs | 17,512 | $121,250 | $600,000 | Compare |
| Dayton | 15,873 | $91,221 | $399,400 | Compare |
| Spring Creek | 14,967 | $104,381 | $318,200 | Compare |
| Boulder City | 14,888 | $69,145 | $424,200 | Compare |
| Gardnerville Ranchos | 12,185 | $87,971 | $464,800 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Nevada
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare Elko With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Elko
What is the population of Elko, NV?
The population of Elko, NV is 20,624 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a mid-sized city in Nevada.
What is the median household income in Elko?
The median household income in Elko, NV is $75,630 per year, which is 1% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Elko?
The median home value in Elko, NV is $285,400, which is 17% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Elko?
The median monthly rent in Elko, NV is $1,174, which is 1% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Elko?
The unemployment rate in Elko, NV is 4.4%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Elko, NV a good place to live?
Elko offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 20,624 and a median age of 34.3, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Elko, NV?
18.9% of residents in Elko 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 Elko?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Elko, NV: median home value is $285,400 (17% above national), median rent is $1,174/month, and median household income is $75,630. The home-value-to-income ratio is 3.8x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in Elko?
The poverty rate in Elko, NV is 12.3%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Elko, NV?
Elko's population is 24.9% White, 5.6% Hispanic or Latino, 0.1% Black or African American, 2.7% Asian, and 1.4% two or more races. 7.6% of residents are foreign-born.