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

Total population
338,545
0.5% year-over-year change
Median household income
$61,291/yr
4.3% year-over-year change
Housing units
143,798
0.4% year-over-year change

Cumberland County population

How many people live in Cumberland County

Cumberland County is home to 338,545 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.6% of Cumberland County locals are male, and 50.4% are female.

Total population
338,545
0.5% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.6%
167,875
Female
50.4%
170,670
Value Percent YoY change
Male 167,875 49.6% 0.4%
Female 170,670 50.4% 0.7%
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 Cumberland County is 32, with the population distributed as follows: about 21.2% are children under 15, then 16.6% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 29.1% of the population, while another 20.2% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 13% are 65 or older.

Median age
32
Age breakdown
Under 15
21.2%
15 to 24
16.6%
25 to 44
29.1%
45 to 64
20.2%
Over 65
13%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 71,708 21.2% 0.2%
15 to 24 56,065 16.6% 1.2%
25 to 44 98,514 29.1% 0.7%
45 to 64 68,227 20.2% -1.5%
Over 65 44,031 13% 3.0%
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 Cumberland County, 88.8% of the population are US-born citizens, while 8.2% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 3% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 42.4% of locals are Caucasian, 37.7% are African American and 2.7% have Asian roots. Another 1.2% are Indigenous American, 0.3% are Pacific Islanders, while 4.4% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 11.3% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
88.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
8.2%
Non-citizens
3%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 300,806 88.8% 0.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 27,738 8.2% 1.3%
Non-citizens 10,001 3% 1.8%
Racial breakdown
White
42.4%
Black or African American
37.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1.2%
Asian
2.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.3%
Two or more races
11.3%
Other
4.4%
Value Percent
White 143,594 42.4%
Black or African American 127,504 37.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native 4,103 1.2%
Asian 9,026 2.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 1,163 0.3%
Two or more races 38,188 11.3%
Other 14,967 4.4%

Households in Cumberland County

A peek inside Cumberland County households

Cumberland County has 129,758 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 62.5% are families, while the remaining 37.5% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
129,758
1.3% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
48,629
Family households
81,129
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 48,629 37.5% 0.6%
Family households 81,129 62.5% 1.7%
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 Cumberland County

The housing landscape of Cumberland County

Cumberland County's housing consists of 143,798 units, with 64.7% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 2.4% 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 7.8% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
143,798
0.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 93,087 64.7%
1 unit, attached 3,416 2.4%
2 units 4,711 3.3%
3 or 4 units 5,699 4%
5 to 9 units 10,084 7%
10 to 19 units 8,496 5.9%
20 to 49 units 5,171 3.6%
50 or more units 1,764 1.2%
Mobile home 11,255 7.8%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 115 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
2,207
67.7% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Cumberland County

In Cumberland County, the median construction year is 1988. About 1.9% 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, 16.9% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 10.8% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.5% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 2,734 1.9% -2.1%
Built between 1940 and 1949 3,144 2.2% -6.5%
Built between 1950 and 1959 8,111 5.6% 4.1%
Built between 1960 and 1969 16,797 11.7% 0.0%
Built between 1970 and 1979 24,397 17% -2.8%
Built between 1980 and 1989 21,806 15.2% 1.5%
Built between 1990 and 1999 24,778 17.2% -3.6%
Built between 2000 and 2009 24,312 16.9% 1.4%
Built between 2010 and 2019 15,512 10.8% 4.3%
Built in 2020 or later 2,207 1.5% 67.7%
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.

Cumberland County occupancy rates

Out of the 129,758 occupied housing units in Cumberland County, 55% are owner-occupied, while 45% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 9.8% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
129,758
1.3% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
58,430
Owner occupied
71,328
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 58,430 45% -1.6%
Owner occupied 71,328 55% 3.8%
Unoccupied housing units
9.8%
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.

Cumberland County housing costs

Housing costs in Cumberland County come to a median of $1,193 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,222.

Median housing costs per month
$1,193/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 Cumberland County
$1,222/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 Cumberland County

Cumberland County education at a glance

About 33.9% of the population in Cumberland County went to high school, while 28.8% pursued college studies. Another 10.9% earned an associate degree and 15.9% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 8.5% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 5,073 2% 0.0%
High school diploma 85,963 33.9% 0.3%
College diploma 72,912 28.8% -2.7%
Associate degree 27,746 10.9% 5.0%
Bachelor's degree 40,373 15.9% 2.6%
Graduate degree 21,450 8.5% 3.8%
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 Cumberland County

How much people earn in Cumberland County

The average annual household income in Cumberland County was $80,209 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +4.9% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $61,291, reflecting a +4.3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Cumberland County
$80,209/year
4.9% year-over-year change
Median household income in Cumberland County
$61,291/year
4.3% year-over-year change

Cumberland County income by age

In Cumberland County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $66,112. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $71,033 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $47,068, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $48,649 in earnings. Overall, 83.4% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $47,068 7.4%
25 - 44 $66,112 6.1%
45 - 64 $71,033 5.3%
Over 65 $48,649 2.5%
Above poverty level
263,641
Below poverty level
52,613
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 263,641 83.4% 1.5%
Below poverty level 52,613 16.6% -2.3%

Employment in Cumberland County

Workforce and job types in Cumberland County

The job market in Cumberland County is powered by 125,304 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 77.4% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 22.6% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.6% run their own businesses, 64.2% are employed by private companies, and 21.2% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
125,304
0.1% year-over-year change
White collar
96,965
Blue collar
28,339
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 96,965 77.4% 1.3%
Blue collar 28,339 22.6% -4.0%
Employer type
Self employees
8.6%
Private companies
64.2%
Governmental workers
21.2%
Not for profit companies
6%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 10,751 8.6% -0.5%
Private companies 80,433 64.2% -0.7%
Governmental workers 26,583 21.2% 2.3%
Not for profit companies 7,537 6% 1.0%
Unemployment rate
7.6%
-0.8% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Cumberland County stands at 7.6%, 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 Cumberland County

How people get around in Cumberland County

Commuting methods vary: 85.6% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 4.9% 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 133,734 85.6% -0.8%
Taxicab 623 0.4% 3.7%
Bus or trolleybus 509 0.3% -18.7%
Subway or elevated 37 0% N/A
Ferryboat 22 0% -31.2%
Motorcycle 173 0.1% 47.9%
Bicycle 110 0.1% 0.0%
Walk 7,662 4.9% -1.0%
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 Cumberland County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
28301 16,798 7,243 $39,198 $52,846
28303 30,965 14,029 $58,223 $79,266
28304 37,140 15,187 $58,563 $74,969
28305 5,710 2,921 $78,148 $124,866
28306 43,042 15,914 $67,544 $87,166
28307 14,263 4,122 $51,420 $64,457
28308 323 0 $0 $0
28310 9,583 0 $0 $0
28311 36,629 14,910 $62,170 $82,420
28312 19,793 7,951 $67,754 $87,452

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FAQs about Cumberland County demographics 

What is the total population of Cumberland County?

Cumberland County has a total population of 338,545 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 +0.5% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Cumberland County?

The gender ratio in Cumberland County is as follows:
  • 49.6% males (167,875 residents)
  • 50.4% females (170,670 residents)

What is the median age in Cumberland County?

The median age in Cumberland County is 32.

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

The age distribution in Cumberland County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 21.2% (71,708 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 16.6% (56,065 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 29.1% (98,514 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 20.2% (68,227 residents)
  • Over 65: 13% (44,031 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Cumberland County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Cumberland County is as follows:
  • White: 42.4% (143,594 residents)
  • Black or African American: 37.7% (127,504 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1.2% (4,103 residents)
  • Asian: 2.7% (9,026 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.3% (1,163 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 11.3% (38,188 residents)
  • Other: 4.4% (14,967 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 88.8% of the population in Cumberland County.

How many housing units are there in Cumberland County?

There are 143,798 housing units in Cumberland County, reflecting a +0.4% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Cumberland County has a total of 129,758 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Cumberland County?

Cumberland County has a median household income of $61,291, representing a +4.3% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 92.4% in Cumberland County, with a workforce of 125,304 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 77.4% (96,965 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 22.6% (28,339 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.6% (10,751 residents)
  • Private companies: 64.2% (80,433 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 21.2% (26,583 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 6% (7,537 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