Eleanor Coade was born, with conflicting records indicating either June 3rd or June 24th as her birth date. Her birthplace was Exeter, Devon, England. Her father, George Coade, was a wool merchant, and her mother, also named Eleanor, came from a family with connections to the textile industry.

The Coade family moved from Exeter to London sometime in the 1740s. This relocation was likely driven by business opportunities or a desire for greater social and economic prospects in the capital city. The family's early financial struggles are hinted at, contributing to Eleanor's strong work ethic later in life.

Eleanor Coade's father, George, was declared Bankrupt in 1754. This must have had a profound effect on the family as it moved, impacting thier financial situation. This also probably led to Eleanor Coade's later business drive.