Beaufort County, NC demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
44,499
-0.2% year-over-year change
Median household income
$58,357/yr
0.6% year-over-year change
Housing units
24,526
0.6% year-over-year change

Beaufort County population

How many people live in Beaufort County

Beaufort County is home to 44,499 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 47.7% of Beaufort County locals are male, and 52.3% are female.

Total population
44,499
-0.2% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
47.7%
21,231
Female
52.3%
23,268
Value Percent YoY change
Male 21,231 47.7% 0.2%
Female 23,268 52.3% -0.6%
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 Beaufort County is 48, with the population distributed as follows: about 15.5% are children under 15, then 10.9% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 20.7% of the population, while another 27.3% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 25.6% are 65 or older.

Median age
47.7
Age breakdown
Under 15
15.5%
15 to 24
10.9%
25 to 44
20.7%
45 to 64
27.3%
Over 65
25.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 6,881 15.5% -1.5%
15 to 24 4,850 10.9% 1.1%
25 to 44 9,221 20.7% -1.5%
45 to 64 12,135 27.3% -1.5%
Over 65 11,412 25.6% 2.5%
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 Beaufort County, 95.4% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.1% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 2.6% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 68.2% of locals are Caucasian, 22.8% are African American and 0.3% have Asian roots. Another 0.2% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 2.3% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 6.1% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
95.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.1%
Non-citizens
2.6%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 42,434 95.4% -0.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 931 2.1% 19.2%
Non-citizens 1,134 2.6% 8.7%
Racial breakdown
White
68.2%
Black or African American
22.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
0.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
6.1%
Other
2.3%
Value Percent
White 30,368 68.2%
Black or African American 10,166 22.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native 95 0.2%
Asian 118 0.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 30 0.1%
Two or more races 2,706 6.1%
Other 1,016 2.3%

Households in Beaufort County

A peek inside Beaufort County households

Beaufort County has 19,385 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 68.4% are families, while the remaining 31.6% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
19,385
1.5% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
6,122
Family households
13,263
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 6,122 31.6% -1.5%
Family households 13,263 68.4% 2.9%
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 Beaufort County

The housing landscape of Beaufort County

Beaufort County's housing consists of 24,526 units, with 67.5% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 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 21.7% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
24,526
0.6% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 16,558 67.5%
1 unit, attached 488 2%
2 units 677 2.8%
3 or 4 units 494 2%
5 to 9 units 484 2%
10 to 19 units 191 0.8%
20 to 49 units 161 0.7%
50 or more units 18 0.1%
Mobile home 5,327 21.7%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 128 0.5%
Homes built since 2020
165
157.8% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Beaufort County

In Beaufort County, the median construction year is 1980. About 8.4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5.2% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 13.2% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 7.2% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.7% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 2,071 8.4% 1.4%
Built between 1940 and 1949 1,270 5.2% 4.6%
Built between 1950 and 1959 2,445 10% -7.5%
Built between 1960 and 1969 2,540 10.4% 1.7%
Built between 1970 and 1979 3,833 15.6% -6.4%
Built between 1980 and 1989 3,639 14.8% -3.6%
Built between 1990 and 1999 3,553 14.5% 8.0%
Built between 2000 and 2009 3,243 13.2% 8.1%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,767 7.2% 0.3%
Built in 2020 or later 165 0.7% 157.8%
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.

Beaufort County occupancy rates

Out of the 19,385 occupied housing units in Beaufort County, 69.5% are owner-occupied, while 30.5% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 21% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
19,385
1.5% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
5,907
Owner occupied
13,478
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 5,907 30.5% 3.4%
Owner occupied 13,478 69.5% 0.7%
Unoccupied housing units
21.0%
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.

Beaufort County housing costs

Housing costs in Beaufort County come to a median of $856 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $871.

Median housing costs per month
$856/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 Beaufort County
$871/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 Beaufort County

Beaufort County education at a glance

About 39.8% of the population in Beaufort County went to high school, while 24.9% pursued college studies. Another 11.3% earned an associate degree and 13.6% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 6.7% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 1,312 3.6% -13.1%
High school diploma 14,331 39.8% -1.3%
College diploma 8,962 24.9% 0.7%
Associate degree 4,074 11.3% 1.1%
Bachelor's degree 4,897 13.6% 8.2%
Graduate degree 2,408 6.7% -2.3%
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 Beaufort County

How much people earn in Beaufort County

The average annual household income in Beaufort County was $78,141 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $58,357, reflecting a +0.6% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Beaufort County
$78,141/year
1.0% year-over-year change
Median household income in Beaufort County
$58,357/year
0.6% year-over-year change

Beaufort County income by age

In Beaufort County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $63,438. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $69,778 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $53,405, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $50,168 in earnings. Overall, 82.3% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $53,405 -18.3%
25 - 44 $63,438 0.8%
45 - 64 $69,778 3.1%
Over 65 $50,168 4.0%
Above poverty level
35,886
Below poverty level
7,724
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 35,886 82.3% -0.3%
Below poverty level 7,724 17.7% -0.1%

Employment in Beaufort County

Workforce and job types in Beaufort County

The job market in Beaufort County is powered by 19,597 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 71.4% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 28.6% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9.6% run their own businesses, 64.9% are employed by private companies, and 19.3% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
19,597
1.3% year-over-year change
White collar
13,987
Blue collar
5,610
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 13,987 71.4% 2.4%
Blue collar 5,610 28.6% -1.3%
Employer type
Self employees
9.6%
Private companies
64.9%
Governmental workers
19.3%
Not for profit companies
6.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,883 9.6% -17.1%
Private companies 12,714 64.9% 0.0%
Governmental workers 3,778 19.3% 16.1%
Not for profit companies 1,222 6.2% 10.3%
Unemployment rate
3.9%
-27.8% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Beaufort County stands at 3.9%, 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 Beaufort County

How people get around in Beaufort County

Commuting methods vary: 88.6% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.2% 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 17,124 88.6% 0.9%
Bus or trolleybus 5 0% N/A
Subway or elevated 6 0% N/A
Ferryboat 5 0% -44.4%
Motorcycle 3 0% 0.0%
Walk 228 1.2% 16.3%
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 Beaufort County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
27817 7,834 3,053 $77,017 $86,657
27821 64 39 $0 $76,700
27860 1,546 494 $62,083 $78,907
27865 2,387 934 $72,708 $90,828
27889 24,371 11,086 $53,179 $72,608
27806 2,152 840 $45,809 $67,493
27808 2,220 1,011 $90,472 $116,467
27810 3,336 1,617 $51,277 $66,725
27814 1,671 718 $77,368 $103,475

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FAQs about Beaufort County demographics 

What is the total population of Beaufort County?

Beaufort County has a total population of 44,499 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 -0.2% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Beaufort County?

The gender ratio in Beaufort County is as follows:
  • 47.7% males (21,231 residents)
  • 52.3% females (23,268 residents)

What is the median age in Beaufort County?

The median age in Beaufort County is 47.7.

What is the age distribution of the population in Beaufort County?

The age distribution in Beaufort County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 15.5% (6,881 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 10.9% (4,850 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 20.7% (9,221 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 27.3% (12,135 residents)
  • Over 65: 25.6% (11,412 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Beaufort County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Beaufort County is as follows:
  • White: 68.2% (30,368 residents)
  • Black or African American: 22.8% (10,166 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (95 residents)
  • Asian: 0.3% (118 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (30 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 6.1% (2,706 residents)
  • Other: 2.3% (1,016 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 95.4% of the population in Beaufort County.

How many housing units are there in Beaufort County?

There are 24,526 housing units in Beaufort County, reflecting a +0.6% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Beaufort County has a total of 19,385 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Beaufort County?

Beaufort County has a median household income of $58,357, representing a +0.6% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Beaufort County?

The employment rate is 96.1% in Beaufort County, with a workforce of 19,597 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 71.4% (13,987 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 28.6% (5,610 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9.6% (1,883 residents)
  • Private companies: 64.9% (12,714 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 19.3% (3,778 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 6.2% (1,222 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