Carolina Shores, NC demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
5,017
3.6% year-over-year change
Median household income
$76,087/yr
2.4% year-over-year change
Housing units
2,955
3.8% year-over-year change

Carolina Shores population

How many people live in Carolina Shores

Carolina Shores is home to 5,017 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49% of Carolina Shores locals are male, and 51% are female.

Total population
5,017
3.6% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49%
2,459
Female
51%
2,558
Value Percent YoY change
Male 2,459 49% 3.8%
Female 2,558 51% 3.4%
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 Carolina Shores is 65, with the population distributed as follows: about 6% are children under 15, then 4.4% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 9.7% of the population, while another 29% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 50.9% are 65 or older.

Median age
65.3
Age breakdown
Under 15
6%
15 to 24
4.4%
25 to 44
9.7%
45 to 64
29%
Over 65
50.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 300 6% 20.0%
15 to 24 220 4.4% 5.8%
25 to 44 486 9.7% 13.0%
45 to 64 1,457 29% -0.2%
Over 65 2,554 50.9% 2.4%
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 Carolina Shores, 97.7% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.8% of residents are non-citizens. There’s also a share of 2.2% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
97.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.6%
Non-citizens
0.8%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 4,901 97.7% 4.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 78 1.6% 20.0%
Non-citizens 38 0.8% -56.8%
Racial breakdown
White
94.1%
Black or African American
0%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
0%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
2.2%
Other
3.6%
Value Percent
White 4,722 94.1%
Two or more races 113 2.2%
Other 182 3.6%

Households in Carolina Shores

A peek inside Carolina Shores households

Carolina Shores has 2,627 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 64.2% are families, while the remaining 35.8% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
2,627
4.5% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
941
Family households
1,686
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 941 35.8% 14.1%
Family households 1,686 64.2% -0.2%
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 Carolina Shores

The housing landscape of Carolina Shores

Carolina Shores's housing consists of 2,955 units, with 83% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 11.2% 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 5.6% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
2,955
3.8% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 2,453 83%
1 unit, attached 331 11.2%
10 to 19 units 4 0.1%
Mobile home 167 5.6%
Homes built since 2020
137
174.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Carolina Shores

In Carolina Shores, the median construction year is 2004. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 32.6% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 26% 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 between 1960 and 1969 10 0.3% N/A
Built between 1970 and 1979 77 2.6% 2.7%
Built between 1980 and 1989 618 20.9% 9.4%
Built between 1990 and 1999 382 12.9% 25.7%
Built between 2000 and 2009 964 32.6% -9.2%
Built between 2010 and 2019 767 26% -3.2%
Built in 2020 or later 137 4.6% 174.0%
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.

Carolina Shores occupancy rates

Out of the 2,627 occupied housing units in Carolina Shores, 94.8% are owner-occupied, while 5.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 11.1% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
2,627
4.5% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
138
Owner occupied
2,489
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 138 5.2% -1.4%
Owner occupied 2,489 94.8% 4.8%
Unoccupied housing units
11.1%
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.

Carolina Shores housing costs

Housing costs in Carolina Shores come to a median of $881 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,973.

Median housing costs per month
$881/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 Carolina Shores
$1,973/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 Carolina Shores

Carolina Shores education at a glance

About 34% of the population in Carolina Shores went to high school, while 28.7% pursued college studies. Another 9% earned an associate degree and 17.1% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 10.4% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 37 0.8% 117.7%
High school diploma 1,578 34% -1.6%
College diploma 1,333 28.7% 0.5%
Associate degree 415 9% 23.9%
Bachelor's degree 794 17.1% 10.1%
Graduate degree 481 10.4% -11.2%
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 Carolina Shores

How much people earn in Carolina Shores

The average annual household income in Carolina Shores was $81,360 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -1.1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $76,087, reflecting a +2.4% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Carolina Shores
$81,360/year
-1.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in Carolina Shores
$76,087/year
2.4% year-over-year change

Carolina Shores income by age

In Carolina Shores, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $93,145. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $100,417 overall. Overall, 96% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $93,145 2.9%
45 - 64 $100,417 -1.2%
Over 65 $63,737 -4.4%
Above poverty level
4,819
Below poverty level
198
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 4,819 96% 2.6%
Below poverty level 198 4% 35.6%

Employment in Carolina Shores

Workforce and job types in Carolina Shores

The job market in Carolina Shores is powered by 1,846 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 85.2% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 14.8% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 5.8% run their own businesses, 81.4% are employed by private companies, and 10% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
1,846
15.2% year-over-year change
White collar
1,572
Blue collar
274
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 1,572 85.2% 15.3%
Blue collar 274 14.8% 14.2%
Employer type
Self employees
5.8%
Private companies
81.4%
Governmental workers
10%
Not for profit companies
2.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 107 5.8% 3.9%
Private companies 1,503 81.4% 19.9%
Governmental workers 184 10% -2.1%
Not for profit companies 52 2.8% -10.3%
Unemployment rate
3.9%
-26.5% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Carolina Shores 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 Carolina Shores

How people get around in Carolina Shores

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 1,609 89% 20.3%
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 Carolina Shores by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
28467 13,313 6,917 $75,341 $87,989

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FAQs about Carolina Shores demographics 

What is the total population of Carolina Shores?

Carolina Shores has a total population of 5,017 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 +3.6% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Carolina Shores?

The gender ratio in Carolina Shores is as follows:
  • 49% males (2,459 residents)
  • 51% females (2,558 residents)

What is the median age in Carolina Shores?

The median age in Carolina Shores is 65.3.

What is the age distribution of the population in Carolina Shores?

The age distribution in Carolina Shores is as follows:
  • Under 15: 6% (300 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 4.4% (220 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 9.7% (486 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 29% (1,457 residents)
  • Over 65: 50.9% (2,554 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Carolina Shores?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Carolina Shores is as follows:
  • White: 94.1% (4,722 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0% (0 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% (0 residents)
  • Asian: 0% (0 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 2.2% (113 residents)
  • Other: 3.6% (182 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 97.7% of the population in Carolina Shores.

How many housing units are there in Carolina Shores?

There are 2,955 housing units in Carolina Shores, reflecting a +3.8% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Carolina Shores has a total of 2,627 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Carolina Shores?

Carolina Shores has a median household income of $76,087, representing a +2.4% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Carolina Shores?

The employment rate is 96.1% in Carolina Shores, with a workforce of 1,846 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 85.2% (1,572 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 14.8% (274 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 5.8% (107 residents)
  • Private companies: 81.4% (1,503 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 10% (184 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 2.8% (52 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