Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Elko, NV
Considering a move to Elko, NV? This welcoming city of 20,564 offers affordable living with median home prices around $332,000 and average rents at $1,150. Residents enjoy short commute times (about 17 minutes), low unemployment, and abundant sunshine (78% sunny days yearly). Elko features a tight-knit community, solid public education options, and convenient access to outdoor recreation. With crime rates below national averages and no state income tax, Elko is an attractive choice for families and professionals looking for a friendly, manageable city in scenic northern Nevada.
Demographics - Elko, NV
Elko, NV is a diverse city of just over 20,000 residents, with a slightly younger median age of 34.7 and a population density of 1,200 people per square mile. The community is predominantly White (76.8%) but also has a significant Hispanic or Latino presence at 25.2%, reflecting a blend of cultures and backgrounds. Around 17.5% of residents speak a language other than English at home, contributing to the city's multicultural atmosphere.
Population:
20,564
Density:
1,200 per sq mi
Median Age:
34.7
Gender Ratio:
110 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
17.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
76.8%
Black:
0.8%
Asian:
1.7%
Others:
6.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Elko, NV?
Living in Elko is affordable compared to much of Nevada, with a median home value of $332,000 and an average rent of $1,150 for a two-bedroom unit. The cost of living index is just below the national average at 98.6, and residents benefit from Nevada's 0% state income tax. Everyday expenses like groceries, utilities, and transportation are all close to or slightly below national averages, making Elko a budget-friendly choice for families and professionals.
Median House Value:
$332,000
Gross Rent:
$1,150
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$130
Auto Insurance:
$1,230
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,580
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$480
State Taxes:
Low:
0%
|
High:
0%
Cost Of Living Index:
98.6
Grocery:
97.5
Housing:
93.4
Utilities:
105.3
Transportation:
102.8
Health Care:
98.2
Miscellaneous:
99.0
Crime
Is Elko, NV a safe place to live?
Elko enjoys a relatively safe environment, with violent crime rates lower than many cities of similar size—residents face a 1 in 322 chance of experiencing a violent crime. Property crime is more common, with a 1 in 53 chance, but the overall crime index remains manageable for those considering a move. The city's safety and close-knit feel make it attractive for families and individuals seeking peace of mind.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
311
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,870
Crime Index:
2,181
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 322
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 53
Weather
What is the weather like in Elko, NV year-round?
Elko experiences four distinct seasons with cold winters (lows around 15°F) and warm, dry summers that can reach 90°F. The area averages nearly 10 inches of annual rainfall and boasts 78% sunny days, providing plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation. Residents appreciate the predominantly sunny weather and the variety each season brings.
Winter
Min:
15°F
Max:
39°F
Spring
Min:
30°F
Max:
65°F
Summer
Min:
48°F
Max:
90°F
Fall
Min:
28°F
Max:
65°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
9.8 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
78%
Neighbors
Elko’s residents typically enjoy a household income of about $82,000, with a relatively low unemployment rate of 3.7%. The area has a poverty rate of 10.1% and a high school graduation rate of over 90%, reflecting a stable and educated community. Short average commute times of just over 17 minutes and low public transportation usage point to a convenient, car-friendly lifestyle.
Median Income:
$36,900
Household Income:
$81,900
Family Income:
$91,400
Per Capita Income:
$34,200
Income Male:
$56,100
Income Female:
$37,800
Poverty Rate:
10.1%
Non English Speakers:
17.5%
Rent:
$1,150
Unemployment Rate:
3.7%
Public Transport Usage:
0.4%
Commute Time:
17.2 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
90.8%
Bachelors or More:
19.7%
Education
How are the schools in Elko, NV?
Elko offers a range of educational opportunities, including public schools like Elko High School and Flag View Intermediate, both known for manageable class sizes and active student communities. The city is also home to Great Basin College, serving around 3,800 students and providing higher education locally. Private and alternative schooling options are available, making Elko a supportive environment for learners of all ages.
Public Schools
Name:
Elko High School
Street:
987 College Ave
Phone:
775-738-7281
Students:
1,200
Student Teacher Ratio:
18.6
Name:
Flag View Intermediate School
Street:
701 Walnut St
Phone:
775-777-4150
Students:
700
Student Teacher Ratio:
20.0
Private Schools
Name:
Elko Institute for Academic Achievement
Street:
1031 Railroad St
Phone:
775-738-7310
Students:
200
Colleges
Name:
Great Basin College
City:
Elko
State:
NV
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
3,800
Healthcare
Healthcare in Elko is anchored by Northeastern Nevada Regional Hospital, offering general and emergency medical services to the community. With 1.2 physicians per 1,000 residents and nearly 90% health insurance coverage, most residents have reliable access to healthcare. The city’s healthcare index of 75.4 indicates generally satisfactory medical resources for a city its size.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Northeastern Nevada Regional Hospital
Address:
2001 Errecart Blvd, Elko, NV 89801
Phone:
(775) 738-5151
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.2
Health Insurance Coverage:
89.7%
Health Care Index:
75.4
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Elko, NV?
Elko's housing market is stable, with a median home price of $332,000 and an owner-occupied rate of 64.6%. Rental options remain accessible, with average rents at $1,150 and a 7.1% vacancy rate, while home values have appreciated by about 2.1% over the past year. Low foreclosure and new construction rates suggest a balanced and steady real estate environment.
Median Home Price:
$332,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,150
Owner Occupied Rate:
64.6%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
2.1%
New Construction Rate:
1.6%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.6%
DMV Information
Elko’s residents are served by the Nevada Department of Motor Vehicles office located at 392 10th Street, providing all standard licensing and vehicle registration services. The DMV offers convenient access for local drivers, with additional resources available on their official website. Residents can expect straightforward service for all their motor vehicle needs.
State:
Nevada
Department:
Nevada Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
392 10th Street, Elko, NV 89801
Phone:
(877) 368-7828
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.