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

Total population
29,562
1.2% year-over-year change
Median household income
$53,628/yr
4.1% year-over-year change
Housing units
18,404
1.2% year-over-year change

Cherokee County population

How many people live in Cherokee County

Cherokee County is home to 29,562 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.6% of Cherokee County locals are male, and 50.4% are female.

Total population
29,562
1.2% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.6%
14,675
Female
50.4%
14,887
Value Percent YoY change
Male 14,675 49.6% 1.9%
Female 14,887 50.4% 0.6%
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 Cherokee County is 54, with the population distributed as follows: about 12.5% are children under 15, then 9.2% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 18.3% of the population, while another 28.6% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 31.5% are 65 or older.

Median age
53.5
Age breakdown
Under 15
12.5%
15 to 24
9.2%
25 to 44
18.3%
45 to 64
28.6%
Over 65
31.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 3,693 12.5% 0.5%
15 to 24 2,714 9.2% -1.1%
25 to 44 5,399 18.3% 3.0%
45 to 64 8,453 28.6% 0.5%
Over 65 9,303 31.5% 1.9%
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 Cherokee County, 97.2% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.1% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.7% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 90.4% of locals are Caucasian, 1.8% are African American and 0.5% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 5.4% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
97.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.1%
Non-citizens
0.7%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 28,728 97.2% 1.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 627 2.1% -1.6%
Non-citizens 207 0.7% 7.2%
Racial breakdown
White
90.4%
Black or African American
1.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1.2%
Asian
0.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
5.4%
Other
0.7%
Value Percent
White 26,739 90.4%
Black or African American 527 1.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native 347 1.2%
Asian 156 0.5%
Two or more races 1,583 5.4%
Other 210 0.7%

Households in Cherokee County

A peek inside Cherokee County households

Cherokee County has 13,241 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 63.8% are families, while the remaining 36.2% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
13,241
1.5% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
4,794
Family households
8,447
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 4,794 36.2% 3.8%
Family households 8,447 63.8% 0.3%
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 Cherokee County

The housing landscape of Cherokee County

Cherokee County's housing consists of 18,404 units, with 76% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 0.8% 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 19% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
18,404
1.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 13,986 76%
1 unit, attached 156 0.8%
2 units 384 2.1%
3 or 4 units 130 0.7%
5 to 9 units 85 0.5%
10 to 19 units 23 0.1%
20 to 49 units 30 0.2%
Mobile home 3,496 19%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 114 0.6%
Homes built since 2020
401
68.5% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Cherokee County

In Cherokee County, the median construction year is 1994. About 4.4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 2.2% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 24.5% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 11.3% between 2010 and 2019, and 2.2% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 813 4.4% -0.8%
Built between 1940 and 1949 408 2.2% 70.7%
Built between 1950 and 1959 596 3.2% 2.2%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,009 5.5% -2.6%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,009 10.9% 5.3%
Built between 1980 and 1989 3,161 17.2% -6.6%
Built between 1990 and 1999 3,419 18.6% 6.7%
Built between 2000 and 2009 4,506 24.5% -6.0%
Built between 2010 and 2019 2,082 11.3% 5.5%
Built in 2020 or later 401 2.2% 68.5%
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.

Cherokee County occupancy rates

Out of the 13,241 occupied housing units in Cherokee County, 83.7% are owner-occupied, while 16.3% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 28.1% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
13,241
1.5% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
2,158
Owner occupied
11,083
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 2,158 16.3% 1.0%
Owner occupied 11,083 83.7% 1.6%
Unoccupied housing units
28.1%
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.

Cherokee County housing costs

Housing costs in Cherokee County come to a median of $619 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $813.

Median housing costs per month
$619/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 Cherokee County
$813/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 Cherokee County

Cherokee County education at a glance

About 39.4% of the population in Cherokee County went to high school, while 22.9% pursued college studies. Another 12.1% earned an associate degree and 14.7% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 8% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 699 2.8% 19.1%
High school diploma 9,800 39.4% 3.0%
College diploma 5,695 22.9% -0.8%
Associate degree 3,008 12.1% 0.4%
Bachelor's degree 3,653 14.7% -2.9%
Graduate degree 1,991 8% 5.2%
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 Cherokee County

How much people earn in Cherokee County

The average annual household income in Cherokee County was $68,893 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 $53,628, reflecting a +4.1% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Cherokee County
$68,893/year
1.8% year-over-year change
Median household income in Cherokee County
$53,628/year
4.1% year-over-year change

Cherokee County income by age

In Cherokee County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $62,102. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $61,625 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $35,595, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $47,604 in earnings. Overall, 87.8% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $35,595 1.6%
25 - 44 $62,102 19.1%
45 - 64 $61,625 7.0%
Over 65 $47,604 6.4%
Above poverty level
25,518
Below poverty level
3,561
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 25,518 87.8% 4.1%
Below poverty level 3,561 12.2% -14.0%

Employment in Cherokee County

Workforce and job types in Cherokee County

The job market in Cherokee County is powered by 12,036 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 74.1% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 25.9% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 11.6% run their own businesses, 69.1% are employed by private companies, and 12.2% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
12,036
1.6% year-over-year change
White collar
8,915
Blue collar
3,121
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 8,915 74.1% 0.3%
Blue collar 3,121 25.9% 5.7%
Employer type
Self employees
11.6%
Private companies
69.1%
Governmental workers
12.2%
Not for profit companies
7.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,394 11.6% -6.0%
Private companies 8,312 69.1% -0.2%
Governmental workers 1,465 12.2% 17.1%
Not for profit companies 865 7.2% 10.6%
Unemployment rate
4.1%
-23.9% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Cherokee County stands at 4.1%, 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 Cherokee County

How people get around in Cherokee County

In Cherokee County, the average commute time is 25 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 86% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.1% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
25 min
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 10,075 86% 3.5%
Walk 248 2.1% 3.8%
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 Cherokee County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
28901 5,552 2,605 $44,792 $58,940
28902 986 470 $88,456 $88,554
28905 3,056 1,257 $57,708 $73,678
28906 20,526 9,195 $55,759 $70,285

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FAQs about Cherokee County demographics 

What is the total population of Cherokee County?

Cherokee County has a total population of 29,562 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 +1.2% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Cherokee County?

The gender ratio in Cherokee County is as follows:
  • 49.6% males (14,675 residents)
  • 50.4% females (14,887 residents)

What is the median age in Cherokee County?

The median age in Cherokee County is 53.5.

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

The age distribution in Cherokee County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 12.5% (3,693 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 9.2% (2,714 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 18.3% (5,399 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 28.6% (8,453 residents)
  • Over 65: 31.5% (9,303 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Cherokee County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Cherokee County is as follows:
  • White: 90.4% (26,739 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1.8% (527 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1.2% (347 residents)
  • Asian: 0.5% (156 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 5.4% (1,583 residents)
  • Other: 0.7% (210 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 97.2% of the population in Cherokee County.

How many housing units are there in Cherokee County?

There are 18,404 housing units in Cherokee County, reflecting a +1.2% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Cherokee County has a total of 13,241 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Cherokee County?

Cherokee County has a median household income of $53,628, representing a +4.1% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 95.9% in Cherokee County, with a workforce of 12,036 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 74.1% (8,915 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 25.9% (3,121 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 11.6% (1,394 residents)
  • Private companies: 69.1% (8,312 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 12.2% (1,465 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7.2% (865 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