Elon, NC
Population 11,325 · North Carolina
About Elon, NC
Elon is a mid-sized city located in North Carolina with a population of 11,325 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $82,717 per year, which is 10% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 21.9 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 Elon features a median home value of $355,800, which is 45% above the national median of $244,900. This positions Elon in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,584, 36% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 3,374 total housing units, 66% are owner-occupied (1,883 units) and 34% are renter-occupied (971 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Elon shows an unemployment rate of 2.8%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 22.5%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Elon have an average one-way commute time of 21.2 minutes.
Education & Demographics
53.2% of Elon residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This significantly higher educational attainment rate often correlates with access to knowledge-economy jobs and higher household incomes. The community's demographic composition includes 1.3% White, 1.1% Hispanic or Latino, 0.5% Black or African American, and 1.5% Asian residents, with 3.6% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Elon, NC
Compared to national averages, Elon has a median household income of $82,717 (10% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $355,800, which is 45% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,584 is 36% above the US average of $1,163. Within North Carolina, Elon's income is 28% above the state average of $64,468, and home values are 55% above the state median of $228,922.
Why Live in Elon, NC?
Elon offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $82,717, well above the national average, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 2.8%, and a well-educated community where 53.2% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Additionally, the city features short commute times averaging just 21.2 minutes.
Elon has a population of 11,325 with a median age of 21.9 years. Compare Elon with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in North Carolina.
Similar Cities Near Elon
Cities in North Carolina with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kings Mountain | 11,472 | $45,507 | $177,700 | Compare |
| Lincolnton | 11,503 | $43,294 | $224,600 | Compare |
| Spout Springs | 11,073 | $87,905 | $310,100 | Compare |
| Wendell | 11,585 | $93,848 | $316,700 | Compare |
| Spring Lake | 11,613 | $50,497 | $101,300 | Compare |
| Summerfield | 11,031 | $151,131 | $490,100 | Compare |
| Smithfield | 11,798 | $37,827 | $217,000 | Compare |
| Pineville | 10,780 | $64,257 | $344,700 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in North Carolina
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare Elon With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Elon
What is the population of Elon, NC?
The population of Elon, NC is 11,325 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a mid-sized city in North Carolina.
What is the median household income in Elon?
The median household income in Elon, NC is $82,717 per year, which is 10% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Elon?
The median home value in Elon, NC is $355,800, which is 45% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Elon?
The median monthly rent in Elon, NC is $1,584, which is 36% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Elon?
The unemployment rate in Elon, NC is 2.8%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Elon, NC a good place to live?
Elon offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and a strong job market. With a population of 11,325 and a median age of 21.9, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Elon, NC?
53.2% of residents in Elon aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This above-average educational attainment often reflects a knowledge-based local economy.
What is the cost of living in Elon?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Elon, NC: median home value is $355,800 (45% above national), median rent is $1,584/month, and median household income is $82,717. The home-value-to-income ratio is 4.3x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in Elon?
The poverty rate in Elon, NC is 22.5%, 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 Elon, NC?
Elon's population is 1.3% White, 1.1% Hispanic or Latino, 0.5% Black or African American, 1.5% Asian, and 8.0% two or more races. 3.6% of residents are foreign-born.