Black Mountain, NC demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
8,513
0.6% year-over-year change
Median household income
$77,042/yr
10.0% year-over-year change
Housing units
4,884
-3.2% year-over-year change

Black Mountain population

How many people live in Black Mountain

Black Mountain is home to 8,513 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 45.4% of Black Mountain locals are male, and 54.6% are female.

Total population
8,513
0.6% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
45.4%
3,869
Female
54.6%
4,644
Value Percent YoY change
Male 3,869 45.4% 4.6%
Female 4,644 54.6% -2.5%
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 Black Mountain is 58, with the population distributed as follows: about 10.8% are children under 15, then 4.7% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 19.2% of the population, while another 28.5% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 36.9% are 65 or older.

Median age
58.4
Age breakdown
Under 15
10.8%
15 to 24
4.7%
25 to 44
19.2%
45 to 64
28.5%
Over 65
36.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 915 10.8% -0.2%
15 to 24 400 4.7% 12.7%
25 to 44 1,631 19.2% 4.8%
45 to 64 2,426 28.5% 8.6%
Over 65 3,141 36.9% -7.6%
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 Black Mountain, 96.4% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.7% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.9% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 89.9% of locals are Caucasian, 4.2% are African American and 0.4% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 3.8% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
96.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.7%
Non-citizens
0.9%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 8,209 96.4% 0.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 231 2.7% 10.5%
Non-citizens 73 0.9% -16.1%
Racial breakdown
White
89.9%
Black or African American
4.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.4%
Asian
0.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
3.8%
Other
1.2%
Value Percent
White 7,652 89.9%
Black or African American 356 4.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native 34 0.4%
Asian 38 0.4%
Two or more races 328 3.8%
Other 105 1.2%

Households in Black Mountain

A peek inside Black Mountain households

Black Mountain has 3,601 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 56.7% are families, while the remaining 43.3% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
3,601
-4.6% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
1,558
Family households
2,043
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,558 43.3% -11.0%
Family households 2,043 56.7% 0.9%
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 Black Mountain

The housing landscape of Black Mountain

Black Mountain's housing consists of 4,884 units, with 73.6% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 4.1% 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 7.4% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
4,884
-3.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 3,594 73.6%
1 unit, attached 202 4.1%
2 units 98 2%
3 or 4 units 63 1.3%
5 to 9 units 98 2%
10 to 19 units 305 6.2%
20 to 49 units 29 0.6%
50 or more units 133 2.7%
Mobile home 362 7.4%
Homes built since 2020
194
9.6% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Black Mountain

In Black Mountain, the median construction year is 1986. About 10.3% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 7.7% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 11.6% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 11.7% between 2010 and 2019, and 4% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 501 10.3% 12.3%
Built between 1940 and 1949 377 7.7% -15.1%
Built between 1950 and 1959 331 6.8% 5.8%
Built between 1960 and 1969 366 7.5% -1.6%
Built between 1970 and 1979 433 8.9% -19.4%
Built between 1980 and 1989 743 15.2% 0.4%
Built between 1990 and 1999 800 16.4% -14.1%
Built between 2000 and 2009 566 11.6% 7.2%
Built between 2010 and 2019 573 11.7% 2.7%
Built in 2020 or later 194 4% 9.6%
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.

Black Mountain occupancy rates

Out of the 3,601 occupied housing units in Black Mountain, 66.9% are owner-occupied, while 33.1% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 26.3% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
3,601
-4.6% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,193
Owner occupied
2,408
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,193 33.1% -9.3%
Owner occupied 2,408 66.9% -2.1%
Unoccupied housing units
26.3%
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.

Black Mountain housing costs

Housing costs in Black Mountain come to a median of $1,358 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,652.

Median housing costs per month
$1,358/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 Black Mountain
$1,652/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 Black Mountain

Black Mountain education at a glance

About 23.2% of the population in Black Mountain went to high school, while 13.7% pursued college studies. Another 6.6% earned an associate degree and 33.2% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 21% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 180 2.4% -27.4%
High school diploma 1,738 23.2% 15.3%
College diploma 1,025 13.7% 5.1%
Associate degree 496 6.6% -0.2%
Bachelor's degree 2,490 33.2% -2.1%
Graduate degree 1,574 21% -6.0%
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 Black Mountain

How much people earn in Black Mountain

The average annual household income in Black Mountain was $103,832 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +9.7% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $77,042, reflecting a +10% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Black Mountain
$103,832/year
9.7% year-over-year change
Median household income in Black Mountain
$77,042/year
10.0% year-over-year change

Black Mountain income by age

In Black Mountain, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $87,308. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $86,667 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $91,071, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $65,221 in earnings. Overall, 94% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $91,071 3.9%
25 - 44 $87,308 4.0%
45 - 64 $86,667 -2.1%
Over 65 $65,221 29.1%
Above poverty level
7,741
Below poverty level
492
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 7,741 94% 1.8%
Below poverty level 492 6% -7.5%

Average renter income in Black Mountain

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Black Mountain, their median household income was $33,281 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 59.6%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$33,281
Rent-to-income ratio
59.6%
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 Black Mountain

Workforce and job types in Black Mountain

The job market in Black Mountain is powered by 3,543 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 79.8% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 20.2% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 13.3% run their own businesses, 64.2% are employed by private companies, and 11.1% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
3,543
8.2% year-over-year change
White collar
2,828
Blue collar
715
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 2,828 79.8% 7.1%
Blue collar 715 20.2% 12.8%
Employer type
Self employees
13.3%
Private companies
64.2%
Governmental workers
11.1%
Not for profit companies
11.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 472 13.3% 18.6%
Private companies 2,276 64.2% 9.9%
Governmental workers 394 11.1% 0.8%
Not for profit companies 401 11.3% -3.4%
Unemployment rate
3.9%
16.9% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Black Mountain 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 Black Mountain

How people get around in Black Mountain

Commuting methods vary: 76.3% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 3.3% 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 2,666 76.3% 3.2%
Bicycle 13 0.4% 30.0%
Walk 115 3.3% 38.5%
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 Black Mountain by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
28711 12,663 5,107 $74,761 $104,414

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FAQs about Black Mountain demographics 

What is the total population of Black Mountain?

Black Mountain has a total population of 8,513 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 +0.6% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Black Mountain?

The gender ratio in Black Mountain is as follows:
  • 45.4% males (3,869 residents)
  • 54.6% females (4,644 residents)

What is the median age in Black Mountain?

The median age in Black Mountain is 58.4.

What is the age distribution of the population in Black Mountain?

The age distribution in Black Mountain is as follows:
  • Under 15: 10.8% (915 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 4.7% (400 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 19.2% (1,631 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 28.5% (2,426 residents)
  • Over 65: 36.9% (3,141 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Black Mountain?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Black Mountain is as follows:
  • White: 89.9% (7,652 residents)
  • Black or African American: 4.2% (356 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.4% (34 residents)
  • Asian: 0.4% (38 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 3.8% (328 residents)
  • Other: 1.2% (105 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 96.4% of the population in Black Mountain.

How many housing units are there in Black Mountain?

There are 4,884 housing units in Black Mountain, reflecting a -3.2% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Black Mountain has a total of 3,601 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Black Mountain?

Black Mountain has a median household income of $77,042, representing a +10.0% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Black Mountain?

The employment rate is 96.1% in Black Mountain, with a workforce of 3,543 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 79.8% (2,828 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 20.2% (715 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 13.3% (472 residents)
  • Private companies: 64.2% (2,276 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 11.1% (394 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 11.3% (401 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