Elko, SC
Population 198 · South Carolina
About Elko, SC
Elko is a small community located in South Carolina with a population of 198 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $41,023 per year, which is 45% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 32.6 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 $85,700, which is 65% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Elko 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 80 total housing units, 79% are owner-occupied (42 units) and 21% are renter-occupied (11 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Elko shows an unemployment rate of 65.0%, 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 Elko have an average one-way commute time of 35.8 minutes, suggesting many residents commute to jobs in a nearby metro area.
Education & Demographics
7.8% 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 0.0% 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 Elko, SC
Compared to national averages, Elko has a median household income of $41,023 (45% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $85,700, which is 65% below the national median. Monthly rent at $0 is 100% below the US average of $1,163. Within South Carolina, Elko's income is 30% below the state average of $58,738, and home values are 58% below the state median of $202,187.
Why Live in Elko, SC?
Elko offers affordable housing with a median home value of $85,700, 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 ($41,023) that falls below the national average. However, Elko’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Elko has a population of 198 with a median age of 32.6 years. Compare Elko with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in South Carolina.
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Cities in South Carolina with a similar population size.
Demographics
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Economy & Education
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Other Cities in South Carolina
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Elko
What is the population of Elko, SC?
The population of Elko, SC is 198 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small community in South Carolina.
What is the median household income in Elko?
The median household income in Elko, SC is $41,023 per year, which is 45% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Elko?
The median home value in Elko, SC is $85,700, which is 65% below 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, SC is $0, which is 100% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Elko?
The unemployment rate in Elko, SC is 65.0%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Elko, SC a good place to live?
Elko offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 198 and a median age of 32.6, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Elko, SC?
7.8% 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, SC: median home value is $85,700 (65% below national), median rent is $0/month, and median household income is $41,023. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.1x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Elko?
The poverty rate in Elko, SC 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 Elko, SC?
Elko's population is 0.0% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 75.8% two or more races. 0.0% of residents are foreign-born.