Elgin

Originally inhabited by the Nez Perce and Umatilla tribes.

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Welcome to Elgin

Nestled in the picturesque Grande Ronde Valley of Northeast Oregon, Elgin is a small, close-knit community surrounded by stunning natural beauty. Originally inhabited by the Nez Perce and Umatilla tribes, the area drew European settlers in the mid-19th century, attracted by its fertile land and abundant resources.
 
Founded in 1887 with the arrival of the Oregon Railroad and Navigation Company (OR&N), Elgin was named after Elgin, Illinois, by a railroad surveyor with ties to the area. The railroad brought opportunities for trade and growth, establishing Elgin as a thriving center for agriculture and timber.
 
Located approximately 25 miles north of La Grande, Elgin sits at an elevation of 2,751 feet, surrounded by the majestic Wallowa and Blue Mountains. The town enjoys a semi-arid climate with cold winters, warm summers, and relatively low precipitation.
 
The breathtaking landscapes around Elgin offer a wealth of outdoor recreation opportunities. The nearby Wallowa-Whitman National Forest, Eagle Cap Wilderness, and Grande Ronde River provide hiking, fishing, camping, and wildlife viewing. For a unique and rugged adventure, the scenic Hells Canyon National Recreation Area is within driving distance.
 
Elgin's economy is predominantly based on agriculture and timber, with fertile lands and abundant resources supporting farming and logging. Its location along Highway 82, connecting Elgin to La Grande and other communities, fosters local businesses and tourism.
 
The beautifully restored Elgin Opera House serves as a cultural hub, hosting theater performances, concerts, and events year-round. The annual Elgin Stampede, a popular rodeo event, draws visitors for thrilling competitions, entertainment, and community festivities.
 
With its rich history, welcoming atmosphere, and myriad recreational opportunities, Elgin offers a tranquil and picturesque setting for those seeking a peaceful place to call home.

Overview for Elgin, OR

544 people live in Elgin, where the median age is 40.1 and the average individual income is $38,618. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.

544

Total Population

40.1 years

Median Age

Medium

Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.

$38,618

Average individual Income

Around Elgin, OR

There's plenty to do around Elgin, including shopping, dining, nightlife, parks, and more. Data provided by Walk Score and Yelp.

1
Car-Dependent
Walking Score
24
Somewhat Bikeable
Bike Score

Points of Interest

Explore popular things to do in the area, including Summerville Store, Imbler Market, and Willow Creek Horse B&B.

Name Category Distance Reviews
Ratings by Yelp
Dining 3.36 miles 5 reviews 4.6/5 stars
Dining · $$ 0.93 miles 2 reviews 3/5 stars
Active 2.09 miles 2 reviews 5/5 stars

Demographics and Employment Data for Elgin, OR

Elgin has 190 households, with an average household size of 2.86. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. Here’s what the people living in Elgin do for work — and how long it takes them to get there. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. 544 people call Elgin home. The population density is 35.08 and the largest age group is Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.

544

Total Population

Medium

Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.

40.1

Median Age

53.49 / 46.51%

Men vs Women

Population by Age Group

0-9:

0-9 Years

10-17:

10-17 Years

18-24:

18-24 Years

25-64:

25-64 Years

65-74:

65-74 Years

75+:

75+ Years

Education Level

  • Less Than 9th Grade
  • High School Degree
  • Associate Degree
  • Bachelor Degree
  • Graduate Degree
190

Total Households

2.86

Average Household Size

$38,618

Average individual Income

Households with Children

With Children:

Without Children:

Marital Status

Married
Single
Divorced
Separated

Blue vs White Collar Workers

Blue Collar:

White Collar:

Commute Time

0 to 14 Minutes
15 to 29 Minutes
30 to 59 Minutes
60+ Minutes

Schools in Elgin, OR

All ()
Primary Schools ()
Middle Schools ()
High Schools ()
Mixed Schools ()
The following schools are within or nearby Elgin. The rating and statistics can serve as a starting point to make baseline comparisons on the right schools for your family. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Type
Name
Category
Grades
School rating

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