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

Total population
80,536
-0.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$56,425/yr
1.9% year-over-year change
Housing units
37,387
0.4% year-over-year change

Caldwell County population

How many people live in Caldwell County

Caldwell County is home to 80,536 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.9% of Caldwell County locals are male, and 50.1% are female.

Total population
80,536
-0.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.9%
40,160
Female
50.1%
40,376
Value Percent YoY change
Male 40,160 49.9% -0.1%
Female 40,376 50.1% -0.1%
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 Caldwell County is 45, with the population distributed as follows: about 16% are children under 15, then 11.3% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 22.2% of the population, while another 29.1% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 21.4% are 65 or older.

Median age
45.4
Age breakdown
Under 15
16%
15 to 24
11.3%
25 to 44
22.2%
45 to 64
29.1%
Over 65
21.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 12,847 16% -0.7%
15 to 24 9,112 11.3% -1.7%
25 to 44 17,893 22.2% 1.7%
45 to 64 23,412 29.1% -1.4%
Over 65 17,272 21.4% 1.2%
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 Caldwell County, 96.4% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 2% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 86.1% of locals are Caucasian, 4.1% are African American and 0.5% have Asian roots. Another 0.1% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 3.8% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 5.3% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
96.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.6%
Non-citizens
2%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 77,622 96.4% 0.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 1,292 1.6% -6.5%
Non-citizens 1,622 2% -12.1%
Racial breakdown
White
86.1%
Black or African American
4.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.1%
Asian
0.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
5.3%
Other
3.8%
Value Percent
White 69,339 86.1%
Black or African American 3,274 4.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native 115 0.1%
Asian 426 0.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 70 0.1%
Two or more races 4,284 5.3%
Other 3,028 3.8%

Households in Caldwell County

A peek inside Caldwell County households

Caldwell County has 32,919 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 66.2% are families, while the remaining 33.8% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
32,919
0.5% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
11,127
Family households
21,792
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 11,127 33.8% 1.1%
Family households 21,792 66.2% 0.1%
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 Caldwell County

The housing landscape of Caldwell County

Caldwell County's housing consists of 37,387 units, with 73.2% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 0.9% 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 15% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
37,387
0.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 27,354 73.2%
1 unit, attached 352 0.9%
2 units 651 1.7%
3 or 4 units 1,240 3.3%
5 to 9 units 1,068 2.9%
10 to 19 units 358 1%
20 to 49 units 370 1%
50 or more units 372 1%
Mobile home 5,609 15%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 13 0%
Homes built since 2020
326
70.7% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Caldwell County

In Caldwell County, the median construction year is 1980. About 5.7% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5.2% 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, 4.4% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.9% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 2,119 5.7% 4.0%
Built between 1940 and 1949 1,938 5.2% 20.7%
Built between 1950 and 1959 4,013 10.7% -0.1%
Built between 1960 and 1969 4,875 13% 0.6%
Built between 1970 and 1979 5,710 15.3% 1.9%
Built between 1980 and 1989 5,801 15.5% -9.2%
Built between 1990 and 1999 6,707 17.9% -0.5%
Built between 2000 and 2009 4,249 11.4% -1.1%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,649 4.4% 9.6%
Built in 2020 or later 326 0.9% 70.7%
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.

Caldwell County occupancy rates

Out of the 32,919 occupied housing units in Caldwell County, 73.5% are owner-occupied, while 26.5% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 12% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
32,919
0.5% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
8,710
Owner occupied
24,209
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 8,710 26.5% 2.3%
Owner occupied 24,209 73.5% -0.2%
Unoccupied housing units
12.0%
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.

Caldwell County housing costs

Housing costs in Caldwell County come to a median of $725 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $744.

Median housing costs per month
$725/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 Caldwell County
$744/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 Caldwell County

Caldwell County education at a glance

About 45.7% of the population in Caldwell County went to high school, while 21.6% pursued college studies. Another 10.2% earned an associate degree and 12.2% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 5.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 2,994 4.6% -10.8%
High school diploma 29,522 45.7% 2.1%
College diploma 13,952 21.6% -2.7%
Associate degree 6,601 10.2% 3.1%
Bachelor's degree 7,914 12.2% -4.2%
Graduate degree 3,653 5.6% 10.8%
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 Caldwell County

How much people earn in Caldwell County

The average annual household income in Caldwell County was $75,197 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.8% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $56,425, reflecting a +1.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Caldwell County
$75,197/year
2.8% year-over-year change
Median household income in Caldwell County
$56,425/year
1.9% year-over-year change

Caldwell County income by age

In Caldwell County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $67,421. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $70,030 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $44,601, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $40,201 in earnings. Overall, 86.8% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $44,601 6.2%
25 - 44 $67,421 2.0%
45 - 64 $70,030 3.5%
Over 65 $40,201 1.8%
Above poverty level
68,347
Below poverty level
10,416
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 68,347 86.8% -0.9%
Below poverty level 10,416 13.2% 4.4%

Employment in Caldwell County

Workforce and job types in Caldwell County

The job market in Caldwell County is powered by 36,924 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 68.5% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 31.5% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 11.6% run their own businesses, 69.4% are employed by private companies, and 13.3% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
36,924
0.2% year-over-year change
White collar
25,296
Blue collar
11,628
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 25,296 68.5% 0.9%
Blue collar 11,628 31.5% -1.5%
Employer type
Self employees
11.6%
Private companies
69.4%
Governmental workers
13.3%
Not for profit companies
5.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 4,268 11.6% 3.1%
Private companies 25,630 69.4% 1.3%
Governmental workers 4,896 13.3% -6.8%
Not for profit companies 2,130 5.8% -1.7%
Unemployment rate
5.0%
6.2% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Caldwell County stands at 5%, 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 Caldwell County

How people get around in Caldwell County

Commuting methods vary: 91.4% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 0.6% 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 32,880 91.4% -0.3%
Bus or trolleybus 14 0% N/A
Motorcycle 23 0.1% -53.1%
Walk 213 0.6% -13.1%
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 Caldwell County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
28605 3,883 1,691 $76,477 $123,246
28606 2,187 844 $56,600 $59,521
28611 424 229 $0 $72,482
28630 19,382 7,917 $63,835 $87,144
28638 12,363 4,671 $67,135 $79,033
28645 45,997 19,175 $51,650 $67,286
28667 301 109 $26,354 $53,514

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FAQs about Caldwell County demographics 

What is the total population of Caldwell County?

Caldwell County has a total population of 80,536 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 Caldwell County?

The gender ratio in Caldwell County is as follows:
  • 49.9% males (40,160 residents)
  • 50.1% females (40,376 residents)

What is the median age in Caldwell County?

The median age in Caldwell County is 45.4.

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

The age distribution in Caldwell County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 16% (12,847 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.3% (9,112 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 22.2% (17,893 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 29.1% (23,412 residents)
  • Over 65: 21.4% (17,272 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Caldwell County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Caldwell County is as follows:
  • White: 86.1% (69,339 residents)
  • Black or African American: 4.1% (3,274 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.1% (115 residents)
  • Asian: 0.5% (426 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (70 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 5.3% (4,284 residents)
  • Other: 3.8% (3,028 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 96.4% of the population in Caldwell County.

How many housing units are there in Caldwell County?

There are 37,387 housing units in Caldwell County, reflecting a +0.4% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Caldwell County has a total of 32,919 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Caldwell County?

Caldwell County has a median household income of $56,425, representing a +1.9% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 95% in Caldwell County, with a workforce of 36,924 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 68.5% (25,296 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 31.5% (11,628 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 11.6% (4,268 residents)
  • Private companies: 69.4% (25,630 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 13.3% (4,896 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 5.8% (2,130 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