Boone, NC demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
20,032
2.5% year-over-year change
Median household income
$30,065/yr
5.0% year-over-year change
Housing units
6,985
4.4% year-over-year change

Boone population

How many people live in Boone

Boone is home to 20,032 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.2% of Boone locals are male, and 51.8% are female.

Total population
20,032
2.5% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.2%
9,656
Female
51.8%
10,376
Value Percent YoY change
Male 9,656 48.2% 5.8%
Female 10,376 51.8% -0.3%
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 Boone is 21, with the population distributed as follows: about 4.4% are children under 15, then 68% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 12.5% of the population, while another 8.2% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 7% are 65 or older.

Median age
21.3
Age breakdown
Under 15
4.4%
15 to 24
68%
25 to 44
12.5%
45 to 64
8.2%
Over 65
7%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 871 4.4% -4.3%
15 to 24 13,619 68% 6.7%
25 to 44 2,498 12.5% -16.0%
45 to 64 1,639 8.2% 3.6%
Over 65 1,405 7% 7.3%
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 Boone, 94.9% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.2% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 3% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 85.8% of locals are Caucasian, 4.6% are African American and 1.8% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 5.8% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
94.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.2%
Non-citizens
3%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 19,005 94.9% 3.0%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 437 2.2% 13.8%
Non-citizens 590 3% -15.5%
Racial breakdown
White
85.8%
Black or African American
4.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.3%
Asian
1.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
5.8%
Other
1.6%
Value Percent
White 17,185 85.8%
Black or African American 930 4.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 68 0.3%
Asian 364 1.8%
Two or more races 1,162 5.8%
Other 323 1.6%

Households in Boone

A peek inside Boone households

Boone has 5,975 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 27.1% are families, while the remaining 72.9% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
5,975
1.7% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
4,358
Family households
1,617
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 4,358 72.9% 1.5%
Family households 1,617 27.1% 2.3%
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 Boone

The housing landscape of Boone

Boone's housing consists of 6,985 units, with 25% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 4% 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 1.6% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
6,985
4.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 1,750 25%
1 unit, attached 279 4%
2 units 448 6.4%
3 or 4 units 396 5.7%
5 to 9 units 974 13.9%
10 to 19 units 1,363 19.5%
20 to 49 units 998 14.3%
50 or more units 621 8.9%
Mobile home 111 1.6%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 45 0.6%
Homes built since 2020
29
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Boone

In Boone, the median construction year is 1985. About 1.8% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 1.4% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 11.4% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 16.6% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.4% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 125 1.8% -0.8%
Built between 1940 and 1949 98 1.4% 444.4%
Built between 1950 and 1959 388 5.6% 8.4%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,135 16.2% 28.2%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,057 15.1% -22.8%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,457 20.9% 2.8%
Built between 1990 and 1999 741 10.6% 9.9%
Built between 2000 and 2009 794 11.4% 19.8%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,161 16.6% -1.7%
Built in 2020 or later 29 0.4% N/A
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.

Boone occupancy rates

Out of the 5,975 occupied housing units in Boone, 26.2% are owner-occupied, while 73.8% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 14.5% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
5,975
1.7% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
4,409
Owner occupied
1,566
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 4,409 73.8% -1.6%
Owner occupied 1,566 26.2% 12.3%
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.

Boone housing costs

Housing costs in Boone come to a median of $1,112 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,111.

Median housing costs per month
$1,112/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 Boone
$1,111/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 Boone

Boone education at a glance

About 17.8% of the population in Boone went to high school, while 49.9% pursued college studies. Another 8.3% earned an associate degree and 13.9% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 9.5% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 114 0.6% -23.5%
High school diploma 3,386 17.8% 6.8%
College diploma 9,498 49.9% 1.0%
Associate degree 1,575 8.3% 25.1%
Bachelor's degree 2,639 13.9% -0.3%
Graduate degree 1,813 9.5% 1.0%
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 Boone

How much people earn in Boone

The average annual household income in Boone was $50,995 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -4.7% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $30,065, reflecting a +5% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Boone
$50,995/year
-4.7% year-over-year change
Median household income in Boone
$30,065/year
5.0% year-over-year change

Boone income by age

In Boone, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $59,211. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $50,863 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $15,180, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $48,580 in earnings. Overall, 48.6% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $15,180 4.4%
25 - 44 $59,211 6.1%
45 - 64 $50,863 0.5%
Over 65 $48,580 -12.8%
Above poverty level
6,646
Below poverty level
7,043
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 6,646 48.6% 1.8%
Below poverty level 7,043 51.4% -1.6%

Average renter income in Boone

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Boone, their median household income was $20,420 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 65.3%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$20,420
Rent-to-income ratio
65.3%
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 Boone

Workforce and job types in Boone

The job market in Boone is powered by 9,062 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 88% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 12% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 10.2% run their own businesses, 63.6% are employed by private companies, and 18.9% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
9,062
5.4% year-over-year change
White collar
7,974
Blue collar
1,088
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 7,974 88% 4.0%
Blue collar 1,088 12% 17.0%
Employer type
Self employees
10.2%
Private companies
63.6%
Governmental workers
18.9%
Not for profit companies
7.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 924 10.2% 75.7%
Private companies 5,762 63.6% 2.2%
Governmental workers 1,709 18.9% -6.9%
Not for profit companies 667 7.4% 11.2%
Unemployment rate
12.0%
-17.6% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Boone stands at 12%, 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 Boone

How people get around in Boone

Commuting methods vary: 71.7% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 13.2% 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 6,011 71.7% -1.1%
Bus or trolleybus 305 3.6% 48.1%
Ferryboat 45 0.5% N/A
Walk 1,105 13.2% 27.8%
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 Boone by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
28607 35,679 12,583 $46,639 $77,971

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FAQs about Boone demographics 

What is the total population of Boone?

Boone has a total population of 20,032 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 +2.5% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Boone?

The gender ratio in Boone is as follows:
  • 48.2% males (9,656 residents)
  • 51.8% females (10,376 residents)

What is the median age in Boone?

The median age in Boone is 21.3.

What is the age distribution of the population in Boone?

The age distribution in Boone is as follows:
  • Under 15: 4.4% (871 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 68% (13,619 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 12.5% (2,498 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 8.2% (1,639 residents)
  • Over 65: 7% (1,405 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Boone?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Boone is as follows:
  • White: 85.8% (17,185 residents)
  • Black or African American: 4.6% (930 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.3% (68 residents)
  • Asian: 1.8% (364 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 5.8% (1,162 residents)
  • Other: 1.6% (323 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 94.9% of the population in Boone.

How many housing units are there in Boone?

There are 6,985 housing units in Boone, reflecting a +4.4% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Boone has a total of 5,975 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Boone?

Boone has a median household income of $30,065, representing a +5.0% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 88% in Boone, with a workforce of 9,062 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 88% (7,974 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 12% (1,088 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 10.2% (924 residents)
  • Private companies: 63.6% (5,762 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 18.9% (1,709 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7.4% (667 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