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

Total population
102,612
1.5% year-over-year change
Median household income
$65,873/yr
1.9% year-over-year change
Housing units
48,533
2.4% year-over-year change

Craven County population

How many people live in Craven County

Craven County is home to 102,612 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.2% of Craven County locals are male, and 49.8% are female.

Total population
102,612
1.5% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.2%
51,477
Female
49.8%
51,135
Value Percent YoY change
Male 51,477 50.2% 2.2%
Female 51,135 49.8% 0.8%
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 Craven County is 39, with the population distributed as follows: about 17.7% are children under 15, then 14.5% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 24.2% of the population, while another 22.7% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 20.9% are 65 or older.

Median age
38.8
Age breakdown
Under 15
17.7%
15 to 24
14.5%
25 to 44
24.2%
45 to 64
22.7%
Over 65
20.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 18,125 17.7% -0.1%
15 to 24 14,863 14.5% 4.9%
25 to 44 24,888 24.2% 2.7%
45 to 64 23,290 22.7% -2.3%
Over 65 21,446 20.9% 3.7%
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 Craven County, 94.1% of the population are US-born citizens, while 4.3% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.6% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 66.3% of locals are Caucasian, 19.7% are African American and 2.9% have Asian roots. Another 0.4% are Indigenous American, 0.2% are Pacific Islanders, while 2.8% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 7.8% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
94.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
4.3%
Non-citizens
1.6%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 96,584 94.1% 1.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 4,399 4.3% 6.4%
Non-citizens 1,629 1.6% -1.9%
Racial breakdown
White
66.3%
Black or African American
19.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.4%
Asian
2.9%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.2%
Two or more races
7.8%
Other
2.8%
Value Percent
White 68,018 66.3%
Black or African American 20,249 19.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native 375 0.4%
Asian 2,944 2.9%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 160 0.2%
Two or more races 7,976 7.8%
Other 2,890 2.8%

Households in Craven County

A peek inside Craven County households

Craven County has 42,871 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 64.1% are families, while the remaining 35.9% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
42,871
3.4% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
15,400
Family households
27,471
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 15,400 35.9% 7.1%
Family households 27,471 64.1% 1.4%
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 Craven County

The housing landscape of Craven County

Craven County's housing consists of 48,533 units, with 67.9% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 6.4% 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 12.6% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
48,533
2.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 32,944 67.9%
1 unit, attached 3,105 6.4%
2 units 300 0.6%
3 or 4 units 1,530 3.2%
5 to 9 units 1,813 3.7%
10 to 19 units 844 1.7%
20 to 49 units 809 1.7%
50 or more units 913 1.9%
Mobile home 6,112 12.6%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 163 0.3%
Homes built since 2020
1,422
54.9% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Craven County

In Craven County, the median construction year is 1989. About 4.6% 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, 19.5% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 12.3% between 2010 and 2019, and 2.9% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 2,259 4.6% 6.6%
Built between 1940 and 1949 1,329 2.7% -5.3%
Built between 1950 and 1959 3,195 6.6% 3.6%
Built between 1960 and 1969 3,071 6.3% 5.0%
Built between 1970 and 1979 6,048 12.5% -0.6%
Built between 1980 and 1989 8,822 18.2% 6.6%
Built between 1990 and 1999 6,930 14.3% -5.7%
Built between 2000 and 2009 9,468 19.5% -3.6%
Built between 2010 and 2019 5,989 12.3% 10.4%
Built in 2020 or later 1,422 2.9% 54.9%
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.

Craven County occupancy rates

Out of the 42,871 occupied housing units in Craven County, 68.4% are owner-occupied, while 31.6% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 11.7% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
42,871
3.4% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
13,528
Owner occupied
29,343
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 13,528 31.6% 8.5%
Owner occupied 29,343 68.4% 1.1%
Unoccupied housing units
11.7%
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.

Craven County housing costs

Housing costs in Craven County come to a median of $1,059 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,110.

Median housing costs per month
$1,059/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 Craven County
$1,110/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 Craven County

Craven County education at a glance

About 35.4% of the population in Craven County went to high school, while 26.6% pursued college studies. Another 11.1% earned an associate degree and 15.4% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 9.2% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 1,832 2.3% -8.9%
High school diploma 28,567 35.4% 2.5%
College diploma 21,532 26.6% 0.0%
Associate degree 8,973 11.1% -2.8%
Bachelor's degree 12,415 15.4% 9.2%
Graduate degree 7,474 9.2% 4.1%
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 Craven County

How much people earn in Craven County

The average annual household income in Craven County was $85,440 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -1.7% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $65,873, reflecting a +1.9% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Craven County
$85,440/year
-1.7% year-over-year change
Median household income in Craven County
$65,873/year
1.9% year-over-year change

Craven County income by age

In Craven County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $76,242. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $74,960 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $47,406, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $54,077 in earnings. Overall, 86.2% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $47,406 0.7%
25 - 44 $76,242 0.3%
45 - 64 $74,960 4.7%
Over 65 $54,077 3.4%
Above poverty level
83,611
Below poverty level
13,377
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 83,611 86.2% 2.1%
Below poverty level 13,377 13.8% 1.0%

Employment in Craven County

Workforce and job types in Craven County

The job market in Craven County is powered by 41,423 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 78.4% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 21.6% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.8% run their own businesses, 63% are employed by private companies, and 21% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
41,423
2.3% year-over-year change
White collar
32,470
Blue collar
8,953
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 32,470 78.4% 4.2%
Blue collar 8,953 21.6% -4.1%
Employer type
Self employees
8.8%
Private companies
63%
Governmental workers
21%
Not for profit companies
7.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 3,626 8.8% -1.6%
Private companies 26,113 63% 2.3%
Governmental workers 8,685 21% 9.1%
Not for profit companies 2,999 7.2% -9.5%
Unemployment rate
4.2%
-4.9% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Craven County stands at 4.2%, 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 Craven County

How people get around in Craven County

In Craven County, the average commute time is 22 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 87.8% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
22 min
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 40,556 87.8% 0.2%
Taxicab 59 0.1% 293.3%
Bus or trolleybus 244 0.5% 149.0%
Motorcycle 122 0.3% -28.2%
Bicycle 59 0.1% -10.6%
Walk 933 2% 18.1%
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 Craven County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
28586 7,992 3,157 $57,041 $64,879
28519 392 175 $38,988 $63,613
28523 2,753 1,116 $45,452 $86,040
28526 1,842 980 $39,110 $57,347
28527 1,588 634 $74,190 $86,607
28530 6,484 2,997 $37,361 $56,706
28532 20,908 8,214 $60,605 $74,667
28533 2,452 0 $0 $0
28560 28,661 12,154 $65,411 $83,254
28562 39,082 17,563 $75,012 $99,147

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FAQs about Craven County demographics 

What is the total population of Craven County?

Craven County has a total population of 102,612 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 +1.5% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Craven County?

The gender ratio in Craven County is as follows:
  • 50.2% males (51,477 residents)
  • 49.8% females (51,135 residents)

What is the median age in Craven County?

The median age in Craven County is 38.8.

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

The age distribution in Craven County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 17.7% (18,125 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 14.5% (14,863 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 24.2% (24,888 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 22.7% (23,290 residents)
  • Over 65: 20.9% (21,446 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Craven County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Craven County is as follows:
  • White: 66.3% (68,018 residents)
  • Black or African American: 19.7% (20,249 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.4% (375 residents)
  • Asian: 2.9% (2,944 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.2% (160 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 7.8% (7,976 residents)
  • Other: 2.8% (2,890 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 94.1% of the population in Craven County.

How many housing units are there in Craven County?

There are 48,533 housing units in Craven County, reflecting a +2.4% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Craven County has a total of 42,871 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Craven County?

Craven County has a median household income of $65,873, 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 Craven County?

The employment rate is 95.8% in Craven County, with a workforce of 41,423 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 78.4% (32,470 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 21.6% (8,953 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.8% (3,626 residents)
  • Private companies: 63% (26,113 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 21% (8,685 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7.2% (2,999 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