Beaufort, NC demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
4,689
1.6% year-over-year change
Median household income
$53,321/yr
10.8% year-over-year change
Housing units
3,386
8.8% year-over-year change

Beaufort population

How many people live in Beaufort

Beaufort is home to 4,689 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 46.4% of Beaufort locals are male, and 53.6% are female.

Total population
4,689
1.6% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
46.4%
2,178
Female
53.6%
2,511
Value Percent YoY change
Male 2,178 46.4% -0.8%
Female 2,511 53.6% 3.9%
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 is 55, with the population distributed as follows: about 11.5% are children under 15, then 10.3% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 18.1% of the population, while another 24.9% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 35.2% are 65 or older.

Median age
55
Age breakdown
Under 15
11.5%
15 to 24
10.3%
25 to 44
18.1%
45 to 64
24.9%
Over 65
35.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 539 11.5% -9.6%
15 to 24 482 10.3% -11.7%
25 to 44 849 18.1% -8.5%
45 to 64 1,167 24.9% 2.4%
Over 65 1,652 35.2% 17.8%
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, 96.8% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.5% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.7% of residents are non-citizens. There’s also a share of 4.1% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
96.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.5%
Non-citizens
0.7%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 4,538 96.8% 3.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 118 2.5% -30.6%
Non-citizens 33 0.7% -26.7%
Racial breakdown
White
82.7%
Black or African American
10.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
0%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
4.1%
Other
3%
Value Percent
White 3,878 82.7%
Black or African American 474 10.1%
Asian 1 0%
Two or more races 193 4.1%
Other 143 3%

Households in Beaufort

A peek inside Beaufort households

Beaufort has 2,553 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 47.3% are families, while the remaining 52.7% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
2,553
6.2% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
1,346
Family households
1,207
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,346 52.7% 5.9%
Family households 1,207 47.3% 6.5%
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

The housing landscape of Beaufort

Beaufort's housing consists of 3,386 units, with 62.8% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 4.8% 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 0.3% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
3,386
8.8% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 2,125 62.8%
1 unit, attached 163 4.8%
2 units 174 5.1%
3 or 4 units 441 13%
5 to 9 units 154 4.6%
10 to 19 units 155 4.6%
20 to 49 units 153 4.5%
50 or more units 11 0.3%
Mobile home 10 0.3%
Homes built since 2020
81
72.3% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Beaufort

In Beaufort, the median construction year is 1986. About 15% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 9.1% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 19.7% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 12% between 2010 and 2019, and 2.4% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 507 15% 38.9%
Built between 1940 and 1949 309 9.1% 22.1%
Built between 1950 and 1959 168 5% -27.3%
Built between 1960 and 1969 262 7.7% -27.4%
Built between 1970 and 1979 225 6.6% -5.5%
Built between 1980 and 1989 400 11.8% 0.8%
Built between 1990 and 1999 362 10.7% 17.1%
Built between 2000 and 2009 666 19.7% 24.9%
Built between 2010 and 2019 406 12% 7.4%
Built in 2020 or later 81 2.4% 72.3%
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 occupancy rates

Out of the 2,553 occupied housing units in Beaufort, 53.4% are owner-occupied, while 46.6% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 24.6% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
2,553
6.2% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,190
Owner occupied
1,363
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,190 46.6% -4.8%
Owner occupied 1,363 53.4% 18.1%
Unoccupied housing units
24.6%
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 housing costs

Housing costs in Beaufort come to a median of $985 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $835.

Median housing costs per month
$985/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
$835/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

Beaufort education at a glance

About 25.1% of the population in Beaufort went to high school, while 25.4% pursued college studies. Another 10% earned an associate degree and 26.4% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 11.2% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 76 1.9% -38.7%
High school diploma 1,005 25.1% -2.9%
College diploma 1,017 25.4% -5.6%
Associate degree 402 10% 22.6%
Bachelor's degree 1,057 26.4% 21.5%
Graduate degree 451 11.2% 7.9%
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

How much people earn in Beaufort

The average annual household income in Beaufort was $82,677 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +17.1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $53,321, reflecting a +10.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Beaufort
$82,677/year
17.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in Beaufort
$53,321/year
10.8% year-over-year change

Beaufort income by age

In Beaufort, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $97,022. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $65,938 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $16,779, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $37,587 in earnings. Overall, 88.8% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $16,779 -2.8%
25 - 44 $97,022 37.5%
45 - 64 $65,938 -4.0%
Over 65 $37,587 30.5%
Above poverty level
3,956
Below poverty level
500
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 3,956 88.8% 5.2%
Below poverty level 500 11.2% -19.7%

Average renter income in Beaufort

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Beaufort, their median household income was $24,452 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 41%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$24,452
Rent-to-income ratio
41%
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 Beaufort

Workforce and job types in Beaufort

The job market in Beaufort is powered by 2,134 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 83.9% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 16.1% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 19.6% run their own businesses, 56.4% are employed by private companies, and 14.5% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
2,134
1.1% year-over-year change
White collar
1,791
Blue collar
343
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 1,791 83.9% 3.5%
Blue collar 343 16.1% -9.7%
Employer type
Self employees
19.6%
Private companies
56.4%
Governmental workers
14.5%
Not for profit companies
9.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 419 19.6% 10.0%
Private companies 1,203 56.4% -0.1%
Governmental workers 309 14.5% -0.6%
Not for profit companies 203 9.5% -5.6%
Unemployment rate
5.7%
-16.8% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Beaufort stands at 5.7%, 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

How people get around in Beaufort

Commuting methods vary: 76% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 0.2% 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 1,585 76% -2.9%
Taxicab 5 0.2% N/A
Bus or trolleybus 7 0.3% -36.4%
Bicycle 30 1.4% -37.5%
Walk 4 0.2% -79.0%
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 by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
28516 11,289 5,774 $66,057 $90,692

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FAQs about Beaufort demographics 

What is the total population of Beaufort?

Beaufort has a total population of 4,689 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 +1.6% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Beaufort?

The gender ratio in Beaufort is as follows:
  • 46.4% males (2,178 residents)
  • 53.6% females (2,511 residents)

What is the median age in Beaufort?

The median age in Beaufort is 55.

What is the age distribution of the population in Beaufort?

The age distribution in Beaufort is as follows:
  • Under 15: 11.5% (539 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 10.3% (482 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 18.1% (849 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 24.9% (1,167 residents)
  • Over 65: 35.2% (1,652 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Beaufort?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Beaufort is as follows:
  • White: 82.7% (3,878 residents)
  • Black or African American: 10.1% (474 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% (0 residents)
  • Asian: 0% (1 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 4.1% (193 residents)
  • Other: 3% (143 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 96.8% of the population in Beaufort.

How many housing units are there in Beaufort?

There are 3,386 housing units in Beaufort, reflecting a +8.8% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Beaufort has a total of 2,553 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Beaufort?

Beaufort has a median household income of $53,321, representing a +10.8% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 94.3% in Beaufort, with a workforce of 2,134 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 83.9% (1,791 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 16.1% (343 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 19.6% (419 residents)
  • Private companies: 56.4% (1,203 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 14.5% (309 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 9.5% (203 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