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

Total population
332,353
0.9% year-over-year change
Median household income
$82,316/yr
3.5% year-over-year change
Housing units
153,022
2.6% year-over-year change

Durham County population

How many people live in Durham County

Durham County is home to 332,353 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48% of Durham County locals are male, and 52% are female.

Total population
332,353
0.9% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48%
159,485
Female
52%
172,868
Value Percent YoY change
Male 159,485 48% 0.9%
Female 172,868 52% 0.9%
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 Durham County is 36, with the population distributed as follows: about 16.8% are children under 15, then 13.2% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 32.5% of the population, while another 22.9% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 14.5% are 65 or older.

Median age
36.1
Age breakdown
Under 15
16.8%
15 to 24
13.2%
25 to 44
32.5%
45 to 64
22.9%
Over 65
14.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 55,939 16.8% 0.2%
15 to 24 43,995 13.2% -2.6%
25 to 44 108,163 32.5% 1.8%
45 to 64 76,092 22.9% 0.2%
Over 65 48,164 14.5% 4.2%
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 Durham County, 82.8% of the population are US-born citizens, while 7.5% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 9.6% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 43.4% of locals are Caucasian, 32.1% are African American and 5.4% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 9.6% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
82.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
7.5%
Non-citizens
9.6%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 275,290 82.8% 0.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 24,995 7.5% 5.5%
Non-citizens 32,068 9.6% 2.0%
Racial breakdown
White
43.4%
Black or African American
32.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.7%
Asian
5.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
9.6%
Other
8.8%
Value Percent
White 144,356 43.4%
Black or African American 106,591 32.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native 2,258 0.7%
Asian 17,932 5.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 150 0%
Two or more races 31,942 9.6%
Other 29,124 8.8%

Households in Durham County

A peek inside Durham County households

Durham County has 141,847 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 55.3% are families, while the remaining 44.7% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
141,847
2.4% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
63,345
Family households
78,502
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 63,345 44.7% 3.3%
Family households 78,502 55.3% 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 Durham County

The housing landscape of Durham County

Durham County's housing consists of 153,022 units, with 54.6% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 9.6% 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 1.2% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
153,022
2.6% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 83,495 54.6%
1 unit, attached 14,690 9.6%
2 units 4,006 2.6%
3 or 4 units 5,916 3.9%
5 to 9 units 9,037 5.9%
10 to 19 units 15,315 10%
20 to 49 units 7,123 4.6%
50 or more units 11,517 7.5%
Mobile home 1,901 1.2%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 22 0%
Homes built since 2020
5,999
66.5% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Durham County

In Durham County, the median construction year is 1993. About 4.8% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 3.4% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 17.1% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 19.8% between 2010 and 2019, and 3.9% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 7,394 4.8% 2.1%
Built between 1940 and 1949 5,200 3.4% 3.0%
Built between 1950 and 1959 8,070 5.3% 0.9%
Built between 1960 and 1969 10,790 7% -2.0%
Built between 1970 and 1979 15,769 10.3% -3.1%
Built between 1980 and 1989 22,011 14.4% 3.6%
Built between 1990 and 1999 21,251 13.9% -1.3%
Built between 2000 and 2009 26,209 17.1% 3.8%
Built between 2010 and 2019 30,329 19.8% 1.2%
Built in 2020 or later 5,999 3.9% 66.5%
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.

Durham County occupancy rates

Out of the 141,847 occupied housing units in Durham County, 55.5% are owner-occupied, while 44.5% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 7.3% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
141,847
2.4% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
63,123
Owner occupied
78,724
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 63,123 44.5% 1.3%
Owner occupied 78,724 55.5% 3.3%
Unoccupied housing units
7.3%
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.

Durham County housing costs

Housing costs in Durham County come to a median of $1,496 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,508.

Median housing costs per month
$1,496/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 Durham County
$1,508/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 Durham County

Durham County education at a glance

About 21.4% of the population in Durham County went to high school, while 16.6% pursued college studies. Another 6.4% earned an associate degree and 28.1% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 23.4% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 11,019 4.2% -10.6%
High school diploma 56,822 21.4% -1.6%
College diploma 43,980 16.6% -3.6%
Associate degree 17,131 6.4% 0.7%
Bachelor's degree 74,698 28.1% 6.6%
Graduate degree 62,100 23.4% 3.0%
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 Durham County

How much people earn in Durham County

The average annual household income in Durham County was $114,501 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +4.5% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $82,316, reflecting a +3.5% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Durham County
$114,501/year
4.5% year-over-year change
Median household income in Durham County
$82,316/year
3.5% year-over-year change

Durham County income by age

In Durham County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $91,180. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $98,104 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $40,781, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $65,703 in earnings. Overall, 88.5% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $40,781 3.4%
25 - 44 $91,180 6.7%
45 - 64 $98,104 5.3%
Over 65 $65,703 1.8%
Above poverty level
280,097
Below poverty level
36,326
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 280,097 88.5% 1.4%
Below poverty level 36,326 11.5% -3.2%

Employment in Durham County

Workforce and job types in Durham County

The job market in Durham County is powered by 177,032 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 86.1% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 13.9% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 7.8% run their own businesses, 61.2% are employed by private companies, and 15.9% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
177,032
1.9% year-over-year change
White collar
152,459
Blue collar
24,573
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 152,459 86.1% 2.2%
Blue collar 24,573 13.9% -0.2%
Employer type
Self employees
7.8%
Private companies
61.2%
Governmental workers
15.9%
Not for profit companies
15.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 13,830 7.8% 8.8%
Private companies 108,417 61.2% 0.5%
Governmental workers 28,126 15.9% 4.3%
Not for profit companies 26,659 15.1% 1.6%
Unemployment rate
3.9%
-4.4% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Durham County stands at 3.9%, 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 Durham County

How people get around in Durham County

In Durham County, the average commute time is 23 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 71.1% 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
23 min
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 123,591 71.1% -2.1%
Taxicab 716 0.4% 32.8%
Bus or trolleybus 3,077 1.8% -9.0%
Subway or elevated 22 0% N/A
Motorcycle 240 0.1% -10.1%
Bicycle 973 0.6% 31.0%
Walk 3,601 2.1% -0.8%
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 Durham County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
27503 5,374 1,501 $114,425 $174,826
27517 29,564 12,608 $128,683 $179,706
27560 40,792 16,790 $118,417 $140,238
27572 6,131 2,489 $90,724 $98,930
27613 45,235 18,982 $123,966 $162,516
27701 24,793 11,974 $69,740 $105,797
27703 63,458 26,653 $89,317 $111,065
27704 40,102 15,523 $69,668 $83,990
27705 49,923 22,678 $73,066 $117,225
27707 51,274 21,863 $74,406 $114,097

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FAQs about Durham County demographics 

What is the total population of Durham County?

Durham County has a total population of 332,353 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 +0.9% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Durham County?

The gender ratio in Durham County is as follows:
  • 48% males (159,485 residents)
  • 52% females (172,868 residents)

What is the median age in Durham County?

The median age in Durham County is 36.1.

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

The age distribution in Durham County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 16.8% (55,939 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 13.2% (43,995 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 32.5% (108,163 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 22.9% (76,092 residents)
  • Over 65: 14.5% (48,164 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Durham County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Durham County is as follows:
  • White: 43.4% (144,356 residents)
  • Black or African American: 32.1% (106,591 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.7% (2,258 residents)
  • Asian: 5.4% (17,932 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (150 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 9.6% (31,942 residents)
  • Other: 8.8% (29,124 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 82.8% of the population in Durham County.

How many housing units are there in Durham County?

There are 153,022 housing units in Durham County, reflecting a +2.6% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Durham County has a total of 141,847 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Durham County?

Durham County has a median household income of $82,316, representing a +3.5% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 96.1% in Durham County, with a workforce of 177,032 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 86.1% (152,459 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 13.9% (24,573 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 7.8% (13,830 residents)
  • Private companies: 61.2% (108,417 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 15.9% (28,126 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 15.1% (26,659 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