Chapel Hill, NC demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
61,607
2.9% year-over-year change
Median household income
$85,989/yr
0.2% year-over-year change
Housing units
23,581
1.6% year-over-year change

Chapel Hill population

How many people live in Chapel Hill

Chapel Hill is home to 61,607 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 47% of Chapel Hill locals are male, and 53% are female.

Total population
61,607
2.9% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
47%
28,950
Female
53%
32,657
Value Percent YoY change
Male 28,950 47% 2.9%
Female 32,657 53% 2.8%
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 Chapel Hill is 26, with the population distributed as follows: about 11.2% are children under 15, then 37.1% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 20.9% of the population, while another 18.1% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 12.6% are 65 or older.

Median age
25.8
Age breakdown
Under 15
11.2%
15 to 24
37.1%
25 to 44
20.9%
45 to 64
18.1%
Over 65
12.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 6,932 11.2% -2.9%
15 to 24 22,880 37.1% 5.7%
25 to 44 12,860 20.9% 0.1%
45 to 64 11,169 18.1% 4.1%
Over 65 7,766 12.6% 3.4%
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 Chapel Hill, 83.3% of the population are US-born citizens, while 8.4% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 8.2% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 64.9% of locals are Caucasian, 11.4% are African American and 13.4% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 6.8% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
83.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
8.4%
Non-citizens
8.2%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 51,343 83.3% 2.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 5,199 8.4% 5.9%
Non-citizens 5,065 8.2% 2.5%
Racial breakdown
White
64.9%
Black or African American
11.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.5%
Asian
13.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
6.8%
Other
3%
Value Percent
White 39,973 64.9%
Black or African American 7,028 11.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native 322 0.5%
Asian 8,259 13.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 15 0%
Two or more races 4,156 6.8%
Other 1,854 3%

Households in Chapel Hill

A peek inside Chapel Hill households

Chapel Hill has 21,189 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 49.6% are families, while the remaining 50.4% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
21,189
2.3% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
10,680
Family households
10,509
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 10,680 50.4% 4.9%
Family households 10,509 49.6% -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 Chapel Hill

The housing landscape of Chapel Hill

Chapel Hill's housing consists of 23,581 units, with 41.2% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 13.8% 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 0.6% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
23,581
1.6% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 9,714 41.2%
1 unit, attached 3,257 13.8%
2 units 888 3.8%
3 or 4 units 1,077 4.6%
5 to 9 units 1,994 8.5%
10 to 19 units 2,133 9%
20 to 49 units 1,450 6.2%
50 or more units 2,927 12.4%
Mobile home 141 0.6%
Homes built since 2020
477
26.9% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Chapel Hill

In Chapel Hill, the median construction year is 1988. About 3.2% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 2.7% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 17.3% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 12.8% 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 753 3.2% 2.5%
Built between 1940 and 1949 642 2.7% -0.6%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,295 5.5% -15.3%
Built between 1960 and 1969 2,276 9.6% -5.3%
Built between 1970 and 1979 3,378 14.3% 3.5%
Built between 1980 and 1989 4,388 18.6% 20.6%
Built between 1990 and 1999 3,265 13.8% -10.9%
Built between 2000 and 2009 4,086 17.3% -3.9%
Built between 2010 and 2019 3,021 12.8% 11.9%
Built in 2020 or later 477 2% 26.9%
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.

Chapel Hill occupancy rates

Out of the 21,189 occupied housing units in Chapel Hill, 47.4% are owner-occupied, while 52.6% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 10.1% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
21,189
2.3% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
11,141
Owner occupied
10,048
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 11,141 52.6% 4.9%
Owner occupied 10,048 47.4% -0.4%
Unoccupied housing units
10.1%
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.

Chapel Hill housing costs

Housing costs in Chapel Hill come to a median of $1,625 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,613.

Median housing costs per month
$1,625/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 Chapel Hill
$1,613/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 Chapel Hill

Chapel Hill education at a glance

About 10.8% of the population in Chapel Hill went to high school, while 32.9% pursued college studies. Another 3.3% earned an associate degree and 23.5% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 28.4% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 637 1.2% -6.2%
High school diploma 5,649 10.8% 6.6%
College diploma 17,244 32.9% 5.3%
Associate degree 1,723 3.3% 12.8%
Bachelor's degree 12,328 23.5% -1.1%
Graduate degree 14,877 28.4% 3.4%
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 Chapel Hill

How much people earn in Chapel Hill

The average annual household income in Chapel Hill was $145,081 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +1.8% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $85,989, reflecting a +0.2% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Chapel Hill
$145,081/year
1.8% year-over-year change
Median household income in Chapel Hill
$85,989/year
0.2% year-over-year change

Chapel Hill income by age

In Chapel Hill, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $77,396. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $173,327 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $19,950, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $118,516 in earnings. Overall, 81.4% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $19,950 -11.6%
25 - 44 $77,396 2.5%
45 - 64 $173,327 4.3%
Over 65 $118,516 5.2%
Above poverty level
40,988
Below poverty level
9,394
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 40,988 81.4% 4.7%
Below poverty level 9,394 18.6% -2.2%

Average renter income in Chapel Hill

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Chapel Hill, their median household income was $44,828 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 43.2%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$44,828
Rent-to-income ratio
43.2%
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 Chapel Hill

Workforce and job types in Chapel Hill

The job market in Chapel Hill is powered by 29,978 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 93.1% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 6.9% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9.8% run their own businesses, 51.5% are employed by private companies, and 23.8% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
29,978
4.8% year-over-year change
White collar
27,916
Blue collar
2,062
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 27,916 93.1% 4.7%
Blue collar 2,062 6.9% 5.8%
Employer type
Self employees
9.8%
Private companies
51.5%
Governmental workers
23.8%
Not for profit companies
14.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 2,954 9.8% 9.5%
Private companies 15,436 51.5% 4.5%
Governmental workers 7,128 23.8% 3.3%
Not for profit companies 4,460 14.9% 5.3%
Unemployment rate
4.5%
2.6% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Chapel Hill stands at 4.5%, 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 Chapel Hill

How people get around in Chapel Hill

Commuting methods vary: 53% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 8% 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 15,393 53% 1.5%
Taxicab 91 0.3% 82.0%
Bus or trolleybus 1,986 6.8% 10.2%
Subway or elevated 13 0% N/A
Railroad 4 0% 0.0%
Motorcycle 4 0% -82.6%
Bicycle 769 2.6% 7.5%
Walk 2,330 8% 9.5%
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 Chapel Hill by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
27514 32,951 10,347 $92,875 $160,358
27516 47,358 17,503 $106,353 $157,150
27517 29,564 12,608 $128,683 $179,706

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FAQs about Chapel Hill demographics 

What is the total population of Chapel Hill?

Chapel Hill has a total population of 61,607 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 +2.9% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Chapel Hill?

The gender ratio in Chapel Hill is as follows:
  • 47% males (28,950 residents)
  • 53% females (32,657 residents)

What is the median age in Chapel Hill?

The median age in Chapel Hill is 25.8.

What is the age distribution of the population in Chapel Hill?

The age distribution in Chapel Hill is as follows:
  • Under 15: 11.2% (6,932 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 37.1% (22,880 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 20.9% (12,860 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 18.1% (11,169 residents)
  • Over 65: 12.6% (7,766 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Chapel Hill?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Chapel Hill is as follows:
  • White: 64.9% (39,973 residents)
  • Black or African American: 11.4% (7,028 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.5% (322 residents)
  • Asian: 13.4% (8,259 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (15 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 6.8% (4,156 residents)
  • Other: 3% (1,854 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 83.3% of the population in Chapel Hill.

How many housing units are there in Chapel Hill?

There are 23,581 housing units in Chapel Hill, reflecting a +1.6% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Chapel Hill has a total of 21,189 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Chapel Hill?

Chapel Hill has a median household income of $85,989, representing a +0.2% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Chapel Hill?

The employment rate is 95.5% in Chapel Hill, with a workforce of 29,978 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 93.1% (27,916 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 6.9% (2,062 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9.8% (2,954 residents)
  • Private companies: 51.5% (15,436 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 23.8% (7,128 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 14.9% (4,460 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