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

Total population
87,795
-0.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$58,592/yr
5.2% year-over-year change
Housing units
40,358
0.8% year-over-year change

Burke County population

How many people live in Burke County

Burke County is home to 87,795 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.1% of Burke County locals are male, and 49.9% are female.

Total population
87,795
-0.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.1%
43,984
Female
49.9%
43,811
Value Percent YoY change
Male 43,984 50.1% 0.1%
Female 43,811 49.9% -0.2%
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 Burke County is 45, with the population distributed as follows: about 15% are children under 15, then 11% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 24.1% of the population, while another 28.2% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 21.7% are 65 or older.

Median age
44.9
Age breakdown
Under 15
15%
15 to 24
11%
25 to 44
24.1%
45 to 64
28.2%
Over 65
21.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 13,171 15% -0.7%
15 to 24 9,631 11% -3.5%
25 to 44 21,161 24.1% 1.8%
45 to 64 24,801 28.2% -1.5%
Over 65 19,031 21.7% 2.0%
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 Burke County, 93.6% of the population are US-born citizens, while 3.9% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 2.5% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 80.7% of locals are Caucasian, 6.2% are African American and 3.5% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 4.6% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
93.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
3.9%
Non-citizens
2.5%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 82,179 93.6% 0.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 3,448 3.9% -2.1%
Non-citizens 2,168 2.5% -10.5%
Racial breakdown
White
80.7%
Black or African American
6.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.7%
Asian
3.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
4.6%
Other
4.3%
Value Percent
White 70,844 80.7%
Black or African American 5,405 6.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native 619 0.7%
Asian 3,108 3.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 23 0%
Two or more races 4,021 4.6%
Other 3,775 4.3%

Households in Burke County

A peek inside Burke County households

Burke County has 36,306 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 67.3% are families, while the remaining 32.7% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
36,306
1.2% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
11,858
Family households
24,448
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 11,858 32.7% 5.7%
Family households 24,448 67.3% -0.8%
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 Burke County

The housing landscape of Burke County

Burke County's housing consists of 40,358 units, with 70.7% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1.2% 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 19% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
40,358
0.8% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 28,535 70.7%
1 unit, attached 490 1.2%
2 units 882 2.2%
3 or 4 units 743 1.8%
5 to 9 units 1,090 2.7%
10 to 19 units 304 0.8%
20 to 49 units 381 0.9%
50 or more units 247 0.6%
Mobile home 7,657 19%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 29 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
793
107.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Burke County

In Burke County, the median construction year is 1980. About 8.2% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5.9% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 12.1% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 4.3% between 2010 and 2019, and 2% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 3,319 8.2% 3.6%
Built between 1940 and 1949 2,395 5.9% 0.7%
Built between 1950 and 1959 3,478 8.6% 2.4%
Built between 1960 and 1969 5,230 13% -3.1%
Built between 1970 and 1979 5,522 13.7% -6.6%
Built between 1980 and 1989 6,507 16.1% 0.5%
Built between 1990 and 1999 6,499 16.1% 1.7%
Built between 2000 and 2009 4,871 12.1% 1.4%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,744 4.3% 1.5%
Built in 2020 or later 793 2% 107.0%
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.

Burke County occupancy rates

Out of the 36,306 occupied housing units in Burke County, 74.5% are owner-occupied, while 25.5% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 10% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
36,306
1.2% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
9,252
Owner occupied
27,054
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 9,252 25.5% 2.2%
Owner occupied 27,054 74.5% 0.9%
Unoccupied housing units
10.0%
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.

Burke County housing costs

Housing costs in Burke County come to a median of $796 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $884.

Median housing costs per month
$796/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 Burke County
$884/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 Burke County

Burke County education at a glance

About 42.1% of the population in Burke County went to high school, while 21.4% pursued college studies. Another 11.3% earned an associate degree and 13.2% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 6.8% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 3,692 5.2% -10.0%
High school diploma 30,145 42.1% -2.1%
College diploma 15,357 21.4% 3.1%
Associate degree 8,118 11.3% -0.0%
Bachelor's degree 9,457 13.2% 6.5%
Graduate degree 4,858 6.8% 1.8%
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 Burke County

How much people earn in Burke County

The average annual household income in Burke County was $77,743 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +4.6% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $58,592, reflecting a +5.2% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Burke County
$77,743/year
4.6% year-over-year change
Median household income in Burke County
$58,592/year
5.2% year-over-year change

Burke County income by age

In Burke County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $72,227. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $66,346 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $57,404, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $45,477 in earnings. Overall, 84.4% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $57,404 86.0%
25 - 44 $72,227 7.7%
45 - 64 $66,346 4.4%
Over 65 $45,477 -0.5%
Above poverty level
71,489
Below poverty level
13,238
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 71,489 84.4% 2.9%
Below poverty level 13,238 15.6% -12.9%

Employment in Burke County

Workforce and job types in Burke County

The job market in Burke County is powered by 40,677 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 67.3% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 32.7% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.7% run their own businesses, 67.5% are employed by private companies, and 16.8% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
40,677
2.0% year-over-year change
White collar
27,365
Blue collar
13,312
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 27,365 67.3% 3.5%
Blue collar 13,312 32.7% -1.0%
Employer type
Self employees
8.7%
Private companies
67.5%
Governmental workers
16.8%
Not for profit companies
7%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 3,546 8.7% 5.7%
Private companies 27,440 67.5% 1.3%
Governmental workers 6,822 16.8% -1.1%
Not for profit companies 2,869 7% 12.3%
Unemployment rate
4.4%
-7.9% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Burke County stands at 4.4%, 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 Burke County

How people get around in Burke County

In Burke County, the average commute time is 23 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 93.4% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 0.5% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
23 min
-0.4% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 37,214 93.4% 1.9%
Taxicab 5 0% -16.7%
Bus or trolleybus 7 0% -81.1%
Motorcycle 13 0% -35.0%
Bicycle 86 0.2% 36.5%
Walk 186 0.5% -6.5%
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 Burke County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
28601 53,329 21,727 $67,817 $96,455
28602 31,113 12,005 $62,048 $80,855
28612 11,290 4,763 $54,934 $75,006
28619 487 216 $34,881 $38,230
28628 60 29 $74,375 $69,021
28637 1,911 772 $67,500 $82,419
28655 55,100 22,219 $57,713 $76,064
28657 8,188 3,716 $59,702 $76,735
28666 273 73 $0 $0
28667 301 109 $26,354 $53,514

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FAQs about Burke County demographics 

What is the total population of Burke County?

Burke County has a total population of 87,795 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 -0.1% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Burke County?

The gender ratio in Burke County is as follows:
  • 50.1% males (43,984 residents)
  • 49.9% females (43,811 residents)

What is the median age in Burke County?

The median age in Burke County is 44.9.

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

The age distribution in Burke County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 15% (13,171 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11% (9,631 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 24.1% (21,161 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 28.2% (24,801 residents)
  • Over 65: 21.7% (19,031 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Burke County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Burke County is as follows:
  • White: 80.7% (70,844 residents)
  • Black or African American: 6.2% (5,405 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.7% (619 residents)
  • Asian: 3.5% (3,108 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (23 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 4.6% (4,021 residents)
  • Other: 4.3% (3,775 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 93.6% of the population in Burke County.

How many housing units are there in Burke County?

There are 40,358 housing units in Burke County, reflecting a +0.8% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Burke County has a total of 36,306 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Burke County?

Burke County has a median household income of $58,592, representing a +5.2% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 95.6% in Burke County, with a workforce of 40,677 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 67.3% (27,365 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 32.7% (13,312 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.7% (3,546 residents)
  • Private companies: 67.5% (27,440 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 16.8% (6,822 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7% (2,869 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