Durham, NC demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
291,467
1.0% year-over-year change
Median household income
$81,619/yr
3.0% year-over-year change
Housing units
136,837
3.0% year-over-year change

Durham population

How many people live in Durham

Durham is home to 291,467 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 47.1% of Durham locals are male, and 52.9% are female.

Total population
291,467
1.0% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
47.1%
137,152
Female
52.9%
154,315
Value Percent YoY change
Male 137,152 47.1% 0.6%
Female 154,315 52.9% 1.5%
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 is 35, with the population distributed as follows: about 16.9% are children under 15, then 13.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 33.6% of the population, while another 22.2% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 13.5% are 65 or older.

Median age
35.1
Age breakdown
Under 15
16.9%
15 to 24
13.8%
25 to 44
33.6%
45 to 64
22.2%
Over 65
13.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 49,213 16.9% 0.7%
15 to 24 40,122 13.8% -3.9%
25 to 44 97,928 33.6% 2.0%
45 to 64 64,762 22.2% 0.9%
Over 65 39,442 13.5% 4.9%
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 Durham, 82.8% of the population are US-born citizens, while 7.6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 9.6% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 42.1% of locals are Caucasian, 33.5% are African American and 5.8% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 9.7% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
82.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
7.6%
Non-citizens
9.6%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 241,247 82.8% 0.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 22,297 7.6% 5.5%
Non-citizens 27,923 9.6% 1.1%
Racial breakdown
White
42.1%
Black or African American
33.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.6%
Asian
5.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
9.7%
Other
8.2%
Value Percent
White 122,603 42.1%
Black or African American 97,688 33.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native 1,882 0.6%
Asian 16,949 5.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 147 0%
Two or more races 28,151 9.7%
Other 24,047 8.2%

Households in Durham

A peek inside Durham households

Durham has 126,550 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 53.4% are families, while the remaining 46.6% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
126,550
2.6% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
59,020
Family households
67,530
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 59,020 46.6% 3.7%
Family households 67,530 53.4% 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

The housing landscape of Durham

Durham's housing consists of 136,837 units, with 50.8% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 10.6% 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 0.7% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
136,837
3.0% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 69,505 50.8%
1 unit, attached 14,522 10.6%
2 units 4,006 2.9%
3 or 4 units 5,709 4.2%
5 to 9 units 8,837 6.5%
10 to 19 units 14,926 10.9%
20 to 49 units 6,914 5%
50 or more units 11,448 8.4%
Mobile home 970 0.7%
Homes built since 2020
5,751
69.5% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Durham

In Durham, the median construction year is 1995. About 5.2% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 3.5% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 17.3% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 21.1% between 2010 and 2019, and 4.2% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 7,067 5.2% 2.8%
Built between 1940 and 1949 4,746 3.5% 4.6%
Built between 1950 and 1959 7,086 5.2% 1.5%
Built between 1960 and 1969 9,331 6.8% -1.3%
Built between 1970 and 1979 12,348 9% -3.2%
Built between 1980 and 1989 19,126 14% 2.7%
Built between 1990 and 1999 18,758 13.7% -0.9%
Built between 2000 and 2009 23,696 17.3% 4.4%
Built between 2010 and 2019 28,928 21.1% 1.1%
Built in 2020 or later 5,751 4.2% 69.5%
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 occupancy rates

Out of the 126,550 occupied housing units in Durham, 52.3% are owner-occupied, while 47.7% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 7.5% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
126,550
2.6% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
60,347
Owner occupied
66,203
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 60,347 47.7% 1.5%
Owner occupied 66,203 52.3% 3.6%
Unoccupied housing units
7.5%
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 housing costs

Housing costs in Durham come to a median of $1,512 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,508.

Median housing costs per month
$1,512/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
$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

Durham education at a glance

About 20.2% of the population in Durham went to high school, while 16.7% pursued college studies. Another 6.2% earned an associate degree and 29.2% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 24% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 8,572 3.7% -9.6%
High school diploma 47,082 20.2% -2.0%
College diploma 38,855 16.7% -4.0%
Associate degree 14,444 6.2% 2.0%
Bachelor's degree 68,069 29.2% 6.9%
Graduate degree 55,927 24% 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

How much people earn in Durham

The average annual household income in Durham was $113,072 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +4.2% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $81,619, reflecting a +3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Durham
$113,072/year
4.2% year-over-year change
Median household income in Durham
$81,619/year
3.0% year-over-year change

Durham income by age

In Durham, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $91,179. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $94,894 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $39,848, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $65,108 in earnings. Overall, 88.4% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $39,848 5.4%
25 - 44 $91,179 7.2%
45 - 64 $94,894 3.4%
Over 65 $65,108 1.7%
Above poverty level
245,458
Below poverty level
32,378
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 245,458 88.4% 1.5%
Below poverty level 32,378 11.6% -3.2%

Average renter income in Durham

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Durham, their median household income was $52,059 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 34.8%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$52,059
Rent-to-income ratio
34.8%
Understanding the rent-to-income ratio can help renters gauge if local housing costs align with their earnings. A ratio under 30% usually signals affordability, while exceeding this mark means rent is taking a larger-than-recommended bite out of income. That could make it harder for you to cover other costs like transportation, healthcare, or child care.

Employment in Durham

Workforce and job types in Durham

The job market in Durham is powered by 159,046 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 87.2% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 12.8% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 7.4% run their own businesses, 61.3% are employed by private companies, and 15.9% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
159,046
1.8% year-over-year change
White collar
138,617
Blue collar
20,429
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 138,617 87.2% 2.2%
Blue collar 20,429 12.8% -0.7%
Employer type
Self employees
7.4%
Private companies
61.3%
Governmental workers
15.9%
Not for profit companies
15.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 11,712 7.4% 9.6%
Private companies 97,476 61.3% 0.4%
Governmental workers 25,312 15.9% 3.9%
Not for profit companies 24,546 15.4% 2.0%
Unemployment rate
3.8%
-6.5% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Durham stands at 3.8%, 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

How people get around in Durham

In Durham, the average commute time is 22 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 70.4% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.2% 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 109,927 70.4% -2.1%
Taxicab 689 0.4% 27.8%
Bus or trolleybus 2,911 1.9% -12.1%
Subway or elevated 22 0% N/A
Motorcycle 199 0.1% -7.4%
Bicycle 926 0.6% 24.6%
Walk 3,432 2.2% -0.9%
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 by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
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
27712 24,299 9,551 $91,331 $139,301
27713 59,197 25,689 $100,676 $126,771

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FAQs about Durham demographics 

What is the total population of Durham?

Durham has a total population of 291,467 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 +1.0% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Durham?

The gender ratio in Durham is as follows:
  • 47.1% males (137,152 residents)
  • 52.9% females (154,315 residents)

What is the median age in Durham?

The median age in Durham is 35.1.

What is the age distribution of the population in Durham?

The age distribution in Durham is as follows:
  • Under 15: 16.9% (49,213 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 13.8% (40,122 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 33.6% (97,928 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 22.2% (64,762 residents)
  • Over 65: 13.5% (39,442 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Durham?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Durham is as follows:
  • White: 42.1% (122,603 residents)
  • Black or African American: 33.5% (97,688 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.6% (1,882 residents)
  • Asian: 5.8% (16,949 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (147 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 9.7% (28,151 residents)
  • Other: 8.2% (24,047 residents)

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

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

How many housing units are there in Durham?

There are 136,837 housing units in Durham, reflecting a +3.0% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Durham has a total of 126,550 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Durham?

Durham has a median household income of $81,619, representing a +3.0% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 96.2% in Durham, with a workforce of 159,046 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 87.2% (138,617 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 12.8% (20,429 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 7.4% (11,712 residents)
  • Private companies: 61.3% (97,476 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 15.9% (25,312 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 15.4% (24,546 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