Albemarle, NC demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
16,762
1.4% year-over-year change
Median household income
$46,881/yr
-11.2% year-over-year change
Housing units
7,920
-2.2% year-over-year change

Albemarle population

How many people live in Albemarle

Albemarle is home to 16,762 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 47.6% of Albemarle locals are male, and 52.4% are female.

Total population
16,762
1.4% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
47.6%
7,975
Female
52.4%
8,787
Value Percent YoY change
Male 7,975 47.6% 0.6%
Female 8,787 52.4% 2.2%
A higher population often means more rental variety and livelier areas. The gender balance—how many men live here compared to women—can reveal a lot about the community and the lifestyles of its residents. Use this info to get a sense of the area's pace and personality.

Age demographics

The median age in Albemarle is 40, with the population distributed as follows: about 17.8% are children under 15, then 12.4% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 25.8% of the population, while another 23.6% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 20.4% are 65 or older.

Median age
39.5
Age breakdown
Under 15
17.8%
15 to 24
12.4%
25 to 44
25.8%
45 to 64
23.6%
Over 65
20.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 2,988 17.8% 13.8%
15 to 24 2,083 12.4% 6.3%
25 to 44 4,320 25.8% -3.0%
45 to 64 3,956 23.6% -0.2%
Over 65 3,415 20.4% -3.1%
The age composition helps you get insight into who lives in the area. A younger population might mean a more active, fast-paced vibe, while an older one could suggest a quieter, slower lifestyle. If there's a balanced makeup, you’re likely to find a variety of services, housing types, and community spaces that cater to different life stages.

Racial makeup

In Albemarle, 94.6% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.8% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 2.6% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 62.6% of locals are Caucasian, 25.2% are African American and 3.5% have Asian roots. Another 0.2% are Indigenous American, 0.9% are Pacific Islanders, while 3.5% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 4% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
94.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.8%
Non-citizens
2.6%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 15,862 94.6% 3.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 472 2.8% -26.2%
Non-citizens 428 2.6% -14.4%
Racial breakdown
White
62.6%
Black or African American
25.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
3.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.9%
Two or more races
4%
Other
3.5%
Value Percent
White 10,497 62.6%
Black or African American 4,233 25.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native 38 0.2%
Asian 588 3.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 151 0.9%
Two or more races 662 4%
Other 593 3.5%

Households in Albemarle

A peek inside Albemarle households

Albemarle has 6,769 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 60.5% are families, while the remaining 39.5% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
6,769
0.7% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
2,672
Family households
4,097
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 2,672 39.5% 4.5%
Family households 4,097 60.5% -1.6%
The mix between family and non-family households gives a glimpse into daily life. A higher percentage of families might mean more parks and schools, while more non-family setups can mean flexible housing and diverse living styles. For renters, this can signal what kinds of homes are common and can help you figure out if the area matches your lifestyle.

Housing in Albemarle

The housing landscape of Albemarle

Albemarle's housing consists of 7,920 units, with 74.5% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1.2% and offer a more compact, shared living style. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 3.4% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
7,920
-2.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 5,902 74.5%
1 unit, attached 96 1.2%
2 units 479 6%
3 or 4 units 503 6.4%
5 to 9 units 396 5%
10 to 19 units 98 1.2%
20 to 49 units 22 0.3%
50 or more units 151 1.9%
Mobile home 273 3.4%
Homes built since 2020
110
34.1% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Albemarle

In Albemarle, the median construction year is 1966. About 21% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 7.6% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 6.9% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 5.2% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.4% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,659 21% 0.7%
Built between 1940 and 1949 600 7.6% -8.0%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,130 14.3% -7.3%
Built between 1960 and 1969 901 11.4% 4.0%
Built between 1970 and 1979 972 12.3% -11.2%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,008 12.7% -12.5%
Built between 1990 and 1999 581 7.3% -7.6%
Built between 2000 and 2009 545 6.9% 50.1%
Built between 2010 and 2019 414 5.2% 5.9%
Built in 2020 or later 110 1.4% 34.1%
As a renter, knowing when homes were built helps you understand the potential condition and design of rental units. Newer builds may have more contemporary layouts, while older homes can offer character or larger lots, depending on the area.

Albemarle occupancy rates

Out of the 6,769 occupied housing units in Albemarle, 56.3% are owner-occupied, while 43.7% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 14.5% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
6,769
0.7% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
2,960
Owner occupied
3,809
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 2,960 43.7% 4.0%
Owner occupied 3,809 56.3% -1.8%
Unoccupied housing units
14.5%
Unoccupied housing units refer to homes that are currently without residents—whether they're waiting for renters or owners, used seasonally, or simply unclaimed. A higher share of empty homes may mean more housing availability, while a low number can reflect a tighter market with more competition. This, along with the renter-vs.-owner mix, helps paint a clearer picture of what types of housing and services are likely to be available in the area.

Albemarle housing costs

Housing costs in Albemarle come to a median of $892 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $880.

Median housing costs per month
$892/month
This figure sums up typical monthly housing costs for all households in the area. If you own, it includes mortgage payments in addition to property taxes, insurance and HOA fees. If you rent, it accounts for rent plus extras like utilities. It’s useful for seeing how local living expenses stack up compared to other places.
Median gross rent in Albemarle
$880/month
Gross rent gives a more complete look at what renters actually pay, including not just base rent, but also utilities and fees. It’s a key number for evaluating rental affordability in your area of interest and understanding how it compares to nearby locations.

Education in Albemarle

Albemarle education at a glance

About 40.5% of the population in Albemarle went to high school, while 24% pursued college studies. Another 12.3% earned an associate degree and 14.3% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 4.5% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 592 4.5% -2.3%
High school diploma 5,300 40.5% -4.3%
College diploma 3,143 24% 10.9%
Associate degree 1,606 12.3% 3.0%
Bachelor's degree 1,871 14.3% -15.1%
Graduate degree 584 4.5% 31.5%
A community’s education mix can offer insights into the local economy and housing market. Higher levels of education often align with more job opportunities and stable incomes, which can increase demand for homes and influence both rent prices and rental availability.

Income in Albemarle

How much people earn in Albemarle

The average annual household income in Albemarle was $65,491 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -1.4% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $46,881, reflecting a -11.2% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Albemarle
$65,491/year
-1.4% year-over-year change
Median household income in Albemarle
$46,881/year
-11.2% year-over-year change

Albemarle income by age

In Albemarle, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $54,105. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $69,809 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $30,134, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $29,052 in earnings. Overall, 75.5% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $30,134 N/A
25 - 44 $54,105 -4.5%
45 - 64 $69,809 1.3%
Over 65 $29,052 -0.8%
Above poverty level
11,984
Below poverty level
3,891
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 11,984 75.5% -1.8%
Below poverty level 3,891 24.5% 9.0%

Average renter income in Albemarle

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Albemarle, their median household income was $24,634 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 42.9%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$24,634
Rent-to-income ratio
42.9%
Understanding the rent-to-income ratio can help renters gauge if local housing costs align with their earnings. A ratio under 30% usually signals affordability, while exceeding this mark means rent is taking a larger-than-recommended bite out of income. That could make it harder for you to cover other costs like transportation, healthcare, or child care.

Employment in Albemarle

Workforce and job types in Albemarle

The job market in Albemarle is powered by 7,163 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 65.7% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 34.3% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8% run their own businesses, 74.3% are employed by private companies, and 13% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
7,163
0.2% year-over-year change
White collar
4,706
Blue collar
2,457
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 4,706 65.7% -0.4%
Blue collar 2,457 34.3% 1.4%
Employer type
Self employees
8%
Private companies
74.3%
Governmental workers
13%
Not for profit companies
4.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 574 8% 1.8%
Private companies 5,323 74.3% -1.2%
Governmental workers 929 13% 7.9%
Not for profit companies 337 4.7% 0.3%
Unemployment rate
5.6%
8.4% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Albemarle stands at 5.6%, representing the share of the workforce currently without a job and actively looking for one.

For renters, the unemployment rate helps paint a picture of job security and financial stability in the area. Rates around 4% to 5% are considered typical. A lower-than-average rate might suggest strong job prospects and a thriving local economy, while a higher rate could hint at fewer opportunities—both useful to consider when planning a move.

Transportation in Albemarle

How people get around in Albemarle

Commuting methods vary: 89.4% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 0.5% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 6,177 89.4% -1.0%
Bus or trolleybus 38 0.6% -59.1%
Motorcycle 51 0.7% 34.2%
Walk 33 0.5% -38.9%
Understanding how locals get to work can help you plan your own routine. High car usage might mean you’ll need a vehicle, while strong public transit or walkability could save you the hassle. Commute times also play a big role in quality of life—shorter trips can give you more time for the things you enjoy.

What is the median and average household income in Albemarle by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
28001 26,424 11,016 $54,804 $70,506

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FAQs about Albemarle demographics 

What is the total population of Albemarle?

Albemarle has a total population of 16,762 residents, according to the latest release from the U.S. Census Bureau: the 2019-2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates. This figure changed by +1.4% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Albemarle?

The gender ratio in Albemarle is as follows:
  • 47.6% males (7,975 residents)
  • 52.4% females (8,787 residents)

What is the median age in Albemarle?

The median age in Albemarle is 39.5.

What is the age distribution of the population in Albemarle?

The age distribution in Albemarle is as follows:
  • Under 15: 17.8% (2,988 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.4% (2,083 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 25.8% (4,320 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 23.6% (3,956 residents)
  • Over 65: 20.4% (3,415 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Albemarle?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Albemarle is as follows:
  • White: 62.6% (10,497 residents)
  • Black or African American: 25.2% (4,233 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (38 residents)
  • Asian: 3.5% (588 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.9% (151 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 4% (662 residents)
  • Other: 3.5% (593 residents)

What percentage of the population in Albemarle are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 94.6% of the population in Albemarle.

How many housing units are there in Albemarle?

There are 7,920 housing units in Albemarle, reflecting a -2.2% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Albemarle and what is the average household size?

Albemarle has a total of 6,769 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Albemarle?

Albemarle has a median household income of $46,881, representing a -11.2% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Albemarle?

The employment rate is 94.4% in Albemarle, with a workforce of 7,163 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 65.7% (4,706 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 34.3% (2,457 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8% (574 residents)
  • Private companies: 74.3% (5,323 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 13% (929 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 4.7% (337 residents)

Data source & methodology

The demographic data on this page was sourced from the latest U.S. Census Bureau release—the 2019–2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates.

The information, issued annually, is compiled and published by the Point2Homes Research Team as soon as new data becomes available.

No representation, guarantee, or warranty is made concerning the accuracy or completeness of modified or aggregated information for particular areas.

Page last updated: September 2025