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

Total population
274,360
0.9% year-over-year change
Median household income
$74,436/yr
5.5% year-over-year change
Housing units
134,483
1.7% year-over-year change

Buncombe County population

How many people live in Buncombe County

Buncombe County is home to 274,360 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.3% of Buncombe County locals are male, and 51.7% are female.

Total population
274,360
0.9% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.3%
132,421
Female
51.7%
141,939
Value Percent YoY change
Male 132,421 48.3% 0.8%
Female 141,939 51.7% 1.1%
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 Buncombe County is 43, with the population distributed as follows: about 14.6% are children under 15, then 10.7% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 27.7% of the population, while another 25.8% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 21.2% are 65 or older.

Median age
42.6
Age breakdown
Under 15
14.6%
15 to 24
10.7%
25 to 44
27.7%
45 to 64
25.8%
Over 65
21.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 39,972 14.6% -0.7%
15 to 24 29,436 10.7% 0.1%
25 to 44 76,023 27.7% 1.4%
45 to 64 70,638 25.8% 0.1%
Over 65 58,291 21.2% 3.0%
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 Buncombe County, 91.8% of the population are US-born citizens, while 4.3% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 3.9% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 82% of locals are Caucasian, 4.8% are African American and 1.1% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 9.6% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
91.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
4.3%
Non-citizens
3.9%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 251,846 91.8% 1.0%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 11,867 4.3% 1.9%
Non-citizens 10,647 3.9% -0.5%
Racial breakdown
White
82%
Black or African American
4.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
1.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
9.6%
Other
2.2%
Value Percent
White 224,885 82%
Black or African American 13,276 4.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native 559 0.2%
Asian 3,089 1.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 86 0%
Two or more races 26,427 9.6%
Other 6,038 2.2%

Households in Buncombe County

A peek inside Buncombe County households

Buncombe County has 101,855 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 60.9% are families, while the remaining 39.1% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
101,855
-0.8% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
39,830
Family households
62,025
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 39,830 39.1% -2.8%
Family households 62,025 60.9% 0.5%
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 Buncombe County

The housing landscape of Buncombe County

Buncombe County's housing consists of 134,483 units, with 63.8% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 3% 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 11.9% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
134,483
1.7% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 85,741 63.8%
1 unit, attached 4,048 3%
2 units 2,339 1.7%
3 or 4 units 4,739 3.5%
5 to 9 units 8,248 6.1%
10 to 19 units 5,623 4.2%
20 to 49 units 3,684 2.7%
50 or more units 3,934 2.9%
Mobile home 15,957 11.9%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 170 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
6,205
48.5% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Buncombe County

In Buncombe County, the median construction year is 1991. About 10.9% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 3.7% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 16.6% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 14.4% between 2010 and 2019, and 4.6% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 14,608 10.9% 1.1%
Built between 1940 and 1949 4,922 3.7% -1.3%
Built between 1950 and 1959 8,116 6% 3.4%
Built between 1960 and 1969 9,586 7.1% -0.4%
Built between 1970 and 1979 12,234 9.1% -8.9%
Built between 1980 and 1989 16,647 12.4% -0.1%
Built between 1990 and 1999 20,425 15.2% -8.6%
Built between 2000 and 2009 22,305 16.6% 6.7%
Built between 2010 and 2019 19,435 14.4% 9.4%
Built in 2020 or later 6,205 4.6% 48.5%
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.

Buncombe County occupancy rates

Out of the 101,855 occupied housing units in Buncombe County, 66.2% are owner-occupied, while 33.8% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 24.3% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
101,855
-0.8% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
34,444
Owner occupied
67,411
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 34,444 33.8% -5.7%
Owner occupied 67,411 66.2% 1.9%
Unoccupied housing units
24.3%
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.

Buncombe County housing costs

Housing costs in Buncombe County come to a median of $1,274 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,362.

Median housing costs per month
$1,274/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 Buncombe County
$1,362/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 Buncombe County

Buncombe County education at a glance

About 29.1% of the population in Buncombe County went to high school, while 17.5% pursued college studies. Another 8.2% earned an associate degree and 25.4% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 17.4% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 5,684 2.5% -6.7%
High school diploma 65,595 29.1% -1.0%
College diploma 39,391 17.5% 0.7%
Associate degree 18,497 8.2% -3.5%
Bachelor's degree 57,159 25.4% 3.5%
Graduate degree 39,109 17.4% 6.2%
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 Buncombe County

How much people earn in Buncombe County

The average annual household income in Buncombe County was $105,560 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +6.8% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $74,436, reflecting a +5.5% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Buncombe County
$105,560/year
6.8% year-over-year change
Median household income in Buncombe County
$74,436/year
5.5% year-over-year change

Buncombe County income by age

In Buncombe County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $78,374. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $86,887 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $45,822, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $63,415 in earnings. Overall, 88.2% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $45,822 10.0%
25 - 44 $78,374 5.4%
45 - 64 $86,887 6.3%
Over 65 $63,415 8.9%
Above poverty level
234,058
Below poverty level
31,188
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 234,058 88.2% 0.9%
Below poverty level 31,188 11.8% 1.7%

Employment in Buncombe County

Workforce and job types in Buncombe County

The job market in Buncombe County is powered by 130,666 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 81.8% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 18.2% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 13.2% run their own businesses, 67.9% are employed by private companies, and 11.1% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
130,666
-0.6% year-over-year change
White collar
106,849
Blue collar
23,817
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 106,849 81.8% 0.4%
Blue collar 23,817 18.2% -5.0%
Employer type
Self employees
13.2%
Private companies
67.9%
Governmental workers
11.1%
Not for profit companies
7.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 17,309 13.2% -2.2%
Private companies 88,742 67.9% -0.3%
Governmental workers 14,555 11.1% -5.6%
Not for profit companies 10,060 7.7% 7.8%
Unemployment rate
4.3%
22.7% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Buncombe County stands at 4.3%, 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 Buncombe County

How people get around in Buncombe County

In Buncombe County, the average commute time is 21 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 78% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.9% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
21 min
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 100,735 78% -2.4%
Taxicab 687 0.5% 46.5%
Bus or trolleybus 868 0.7% -10.0%
Motorcycle 127 0.1% -14.2%
Bicycle 328 0.2% 45.1%
Walk 2,488 1.9% -10.3%
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 Buncombe County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
28701 5,786 1,710 $108,125 $117,090
28704 24,138 8,810 $81,096 $115,027
28709 2,260 959 $0 $97,546
28711 12,663 5,107 $74,761 $104,414
28715 30,328 10,561 $71,716 $101,874
28730 7,605 2,981 $102,900 $131,493
28732 19,279 7,326 $81,852 $115,222
28748 12,230 4,094 $59,013 $80,597
28757 630 62 $115,568 $120,873
28778 13,536 3,931 $73,408 $81,891

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FAQs about Buncombe County demographics 

What is the total population of Buncombe County?

Buncombe County has a total population of 274,360 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 +0.9% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Buncombe County?

The gender ratio in Buncombe County is as follows:
  • 48.3% males (132,421 residents)
  • 51.7% females (141,939 residents)

What is the median age in Buncombe County?

The median age in Buncombe County is 42.6.

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

The age distribution in Buncombe County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 14.6% (39,972 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 10.7% (29,436 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 27.7% (76,023 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25.8% (70,638 residents)
  • Over 65: 21.2% (58,291 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Buncombe County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Buncombe County is as follows:
  • White: 82% (224,885 residents)
  • Black or African American: 4.8% (13,276 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (559 residents)
  • Asian: 1.1% (3,089 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (86 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 9.6% (26,427 residents)
  • Other: 2.2% (6,038 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 91.8% of the population in Buncombe County.

How many housing units are there in Buncombe County?

There are 134,483 housing units in Buncombe County, reflecting a +1.7% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Buncombe County has a total of 101,855 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Buncombe County?

Buncombe County has a median household income of $74,436, representing a +5.5% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 95.7% in Buncombe County, with a workforce of 130,666 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 81.8% (106,849 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 18.2% (23,817 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 13.2% (17,309 residents)
  • Private companies: 67.9% (88,742 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 11.1% (14,555 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7.7% (10,060 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