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

Total population
50,140
-0.6% year-over-year change
Median household income
$49,442/yr
2.6% year-over-year change
Housing units
23,563
0.0% year-over-year change

Columbus County population

How many people live in Columbus County

Columbus County is home to 50,140 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.1% of Columbus County locals are male, and 50.9% are female.

Total population
50,140
-0.6% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.1%
24,639
Female
50.9%
25,501
Value Percent YoY change
Male 24,639 49.1% -0.9%
Female 25,501 50.9% -0.3%
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 Columbus County is 43, with the population distributed as follows: about 16.9% are children under 15, then 12.2% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 23.9% of the population, while another 26.3% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 20.7% are 65 or older.

Median age
42.6
Age breakdown
Under 15
16.9%
15 to 24
12.2%
25 to 44
23.9%
45 to 64
26.3%
Over 65
20.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 8,484 16.9% 0.2%
15 to 24 6,113 12.2% -2.4%
25 to 44 11,963 23.9% -0.4%
45 to 64 13,204 26.3% -1.5%
Over 65 10,376 20.7% 0.6%
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 Columbus County, 96.3% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.3% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 2.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 59.5% of locals are Caucasian, 28.1% are African American and 0.5% have Asian roots. Another 4.1% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 2.4% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 5.4% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
96.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.3%
Non-citizens
2.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 48,281 96.3% -1.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 668 1.3% 18.9%
Non-citizens 1,191 2.4% 65.0%
Racial breakdown
White
59.5%
Black or African American
28.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native
4.1%
Asian
0.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
5.4%
Other
2.4%
Value Percent
White 29,839 59.5%
Black or African American 14,082 28.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native 2,036 4.1%
Asian 249 0.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 39 0.1%
Two or more races 2,709 5.4%
Other 1,186 2.4%

Households in Columbus County

A peek inside Columbus County households

Columbus County has 20,048 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 63.2% are families, while the remaining 36.8% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
20,048
4.3% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
7,367
Family households
12,681
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 7,367 36.8% 8.5%
Family households 12,681 63.2% 2.0%
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 Columbus County

The housing landscape of Columbus County

Columbus County's housing consists of 23,563 units, with 62% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 0.7% 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 30% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
23,563
0.0% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 14,606 62%
1 unit, attached 156 0.7%
2 units 240 1%
3 or 4 units 691 2.9%
5 to 9 units 321 1.4%
10 to 19 units 145 0.6%
20 to 49 units 206 0.9%
50 or more units 30 0.1%
Mobile home 7,079 30%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 89 0.4%
Homes built since 2020
413
112.9% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Columbus County

In Columbus County, the median construction year is 1982. About 6.3% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 4.2% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 12.5% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 7% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.8% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,481 6.3% -3.8%
Built between 1940 and 1949 977 4.2% 7.6%
Built between 1950 and 1959 2,092 8.9% -16.4%
Built between 1960 and 1969 2,555 10.8% 17.5%
Built between 1970 and 1979 3,961 16.8% -8.5%
Built between 1980 and 1989 2,974 12.6% 3.8%
Built between 1990 and 1999 4,528 19.2% -6.9%
Built between 2000 and 2009 2,938 12.5% 3.9%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,644 7% 21.6%
Built in 2020 or later 413 1.8% 112.9%
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.

Columbus County occupancy rates

Out of the 20,048 occupied housing units in Columbus County, 71.1% are owner-occupied, while 28.9% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 14.9% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
20,048
4.3% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
5,796
Owner occupied
14,252
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 5,796 28.9% 8.7%
Owner occupied 14,252 71.1% 2.6%
Unoccupied housing units
14.9%
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.

Columbus County housing costs

Housing costs in Columbus County come to a median of $766 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $824.

Median housing costs per month
$766/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 Columbus County
$824/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 Columbus County

Columbus County education at a glance

About 47.9% of the population in Columbus County went to high school, while 23% pursued college studies. Another 11.8% earned an associate degree and 9.1% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 4.4% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 1,502 3.8% -8.8%
High school diploma 19,056 47.9% 1.3%
College diploma 9,135 23% -1.8%
Associate degree 4,718 11.8% 1.9%
Bachelor's degree 3,632 9.1% -5.3%
Graduate degree 1,763 4.4% -1.2%
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 Columbus County

How much people earn in Columbus County

The average annual household income in Columbus County was $67,260 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $49,442, reflecting a +2.6% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Columbus County
$67,260/year
1.0% year-over-year change
Median household income in Columbus County
$49,442/year
2.6% year-over-year change

Columbus County income by age

In Columbus County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $64,102. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $58,135 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $40,288, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $35,742 in earnings. Overall, 81.9% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $40,288 -2.3%
25 - 44 $64,102 6.4%
45 - 64 $58,135 5.5%
Over 65 $35,742 0.7%
Above poverty level
38,812
Below poverty level
8,561
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 38,812 81.9% 0.7%
Below poverty level 8,561 18.1% -3.6%

Employment in Columbus County

Workforce and job types in Columbus County

The job market in Columbus County is powered by 19,791 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 71.7% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 28.3% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 10.1% run their own businesses, 67.2% are employed by private companies, and 16% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
19,791
1.1% year-over-year change
White collar
14,192
Blue collar
5,599
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 14,192 71.7% 5.5%
Blue collar 5,599 28.3% -8.5%
Employer type
Self employees
10.1%
Private companies
67.2%
Governmental workers
16%
Not for profit companies
6.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,994 10.1% 2.3%
Private companies 13,295 67.2% -1.7%
Governmental workers 3,174 16% 11.1%
Not for profit companies 1,328 6.7% 6.5%
Unemployment rate
4.4%
-5.9% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Columbus 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 Columbus County

How people get around in Columbus County

In Columbus County, the average commute time is 29 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 92.2% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.5% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
29 min
3.9% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 17,806 92.2% 0.4%
Bicycle 62 0.3% 675.0%
Walk 293 1.5% -26.6%
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 Columbus County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
28423 2,388 812 $52,250 $66,751
28424 90 49 $48,875 $49,494
28430 1,573 789 $68,356 $69,209
28431 5,901 2,835 $40,888 $58,284
28432 1,656 621 $90,815 $92,930
28433 4,313 1,742 $36,944 $50,187
28436 1,922 647 $64,297 $76,806
28438 1,582 569 $59,199 $67,188
28439 1,190 488 $32,361 $53,562
28442 1,810 599 $60,964 $78,720

Find your place

Explore more communities

FAQs about Columbus County demographics 

What is the total population of Columbus County?

Columbus County has a total population of 50,140 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 -0.6% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Columbus County?

The gender ratio in Columbus County is as follows:
  • 49.1% males (24,639 residents)
  • 50.9% females (25,501 residents)

What is the median age in Columbus County?

The median age in Columbus County is 42.6.

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

The age distribution in Columbus County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 16.9% (8,484 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.2% (6,113 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 23.9% (11,963 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 26.3% (13,204 residents)
  • Over 65: 20.7% (10,376 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Columbus County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Columbus County is as follows:
  • White: 59.5% (29,839 residents)
  • Black or African American: 28.1% (14,082 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 4.1% (2,036 residents)
  • Asian: 0.5% (249 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (39 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 5.4% (2,709 residents)
  • Other: 2.4% (1,186 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 96.3% of the population in Columbus County.

How many housing units are there in Columbus County?

There are 23,563 housing units in Columbus County, reflecting a +0.0% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Columbus County has a total of 20,048 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Columbus County?

Columbus County has a median household income of $49,442, representing a +2.6% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 95.6% in Columbus County, with a workforce of 19,791 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 71.7% (14,192 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 28.3% (5,599 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 10.1% (1,994 residents)
  • Private companies: 67.2% (13,295 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 16% (3,174 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 6.7% (1,328 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