Elizabeth City, NC demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
18,871
0.7% year-over-year change
Median household income
$52,141/yr
2.3% year-over-year change
Housing units
8,689
0.1% year-over-year change

Elizabeth City population

How many people live in Elizabeth City

Elizabeth City is home to 18,871 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 43.1% of Elizabeth City locals are male, and 56.9% are female.

Total population
18,871
0.7% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
43.1%
8,138
Female
56.9%
10,733
Value Percent YoY change
Male 8,138 43.1% -1.2%
Female 10,733 56.9% 2.2%
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 Elizabeth City is 36, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.2% are children under 15, then 15.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 28.1% of the population, while another 19.4% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 18.6% are 65 or older.

Median age
36.5
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.2%
15 to 24
15.8%
25 to 44
28.1%
45 to 64
19.4%
Over 65
18.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 3,429 18.2% -2.6%
15 to 24 2,974 15.8% -3.1%
25 to 44 5,303 28.1% 1.4%
45 to 64 3,658 19.4% -3.3%
Over 65 3,507 18.6% 11.8%
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 Elizabeth City, 95.7% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 2.3% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 43.9% of locals are Caucasian, 46.4% are African American and 1% have Asian roots. Another 0.7% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 3.9% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 4.1% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
95.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2%
Non-citizens
2.3%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 18,057 95.7% 0.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 381 2% -15.5%
Non-citizens 433 2.3% 13.1%
Racial breakdown
White
43.9%
Black or African American
46.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.7%
Asian
1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
4.1%
Other
3.9%
Value Percent
White 8,276 43.9%
Black or African American 8,755 46.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native 127 0.7%
Asian 198 1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 12 0.1%
Two or more races 769 4.1%
Other 734 3.9%

Households in Elizabeth City

A peek inside Elizabeth City households

Elizabeth City has 7,576 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 58.1% are families, while the remaining 41.9% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
7,576
2.8% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
3,171
Family households
4,405
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 3,171 41.9% 5.1%
Family households 4,405 58.1% 1.3%
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 Elizabeth City

The housing landscape of Elizabeth City

Elizabeth City's housing consists of 8,689 units, with 61.4% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 3.9% 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 5.1% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
8,689
0.1% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 5,331 61.4%
1 unit, attached 341 3.9%
2 units 592 6.8%
3 or 4 units 593 6.8%
5 to 9 units 653 7.5%
10 to 19 units 416 4.8%
20 to 49 units 244 2.8%
50 or more units 79 0.9%
Mobile home 440 5.1%
Homes built since 2020
106
15.2% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Elizabeth City

In Elizabeth City, the median construction year is 1970. About 17% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 7.9% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 15.1% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 8.2% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.2% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,474 17% -10.9%
Built between 1940 and 1949 690 7.9% 18.8%
Built between 1950 and 1959 994 11.4% 14.4%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,164 13.4% 11.8%
Built between 1970 and 1979 481 5.5% -34.6%
Built between 1980 and 1989 978 11.3% 27.3%
Built between 1990 and 1999 780 9% -6.8%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,314 15.1% -10.8%
Built between 2010 and 2019 708 8.2% 12.6%
Built in 2020 or later 106 1.2% 15.2%
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.

Elizabeth City occupancy rates

Out of the 7,576 occupied housing units in Elizabeth City, 44.1% are owner-occupied, while 55.9% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 12.8% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
7,576
2.8% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
4,232
Owner occupied
3,344
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 4,232 55.9% -2.7%
Owner occupied 3,344 44.1% 10.8%
Unoccupied housing units
12.8%
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.

Elizabeth City housing costs

Housing costs in Elizabeth City come to a median of $1,101 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,117.

Median housing costs per month
$1,101/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 Elizabeth City
$1,117/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 Elizabeth City

Elizabeth City education at a glance

About 35.9% of the population in Elizabeth City went to high school, while 27.2% pursued college studies. Another 10.7% earned an associate degree and 16.1% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 7.2% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 435 2.9% 19.8%
High school diploma 5,338 35.9% 10.7%
College diploma 4,052 27.2% -6.2%
Associate degree 1,588 10.7% 6.3%
Bachelor's degree 2,400 16.1% 0.2%
Graduate degree 1,065 7.2% -7.6%
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 Elizabeth City

How much people earn in Elizabeth City

The average annual household income in Elizabeth City was $70,834 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 $52,141, reflecting a +2.3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Elizabeth City
$70,834/year
4.5% year-over-year change
Median household income in Elizabeth City
$52,141/year
2.3% year-over-year change

Elizabeth City income by age

In Elizabeth City, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $59,527. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $56,481 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $48,317, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $39,680 in earnings. Overall, 87% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $48,317 19.8%
25 - 44 $59,527 -7.4%
45 - 64 $56,481 6.5%
Over 65 $39,680 5.1%
Above poverty level
15,055
Below poverty level
2,256
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 15,055 87% 4.3%
Below poverty level 2,256 13% -9.8%

Employment in Elizabeth City

Workforce and job types in Elizabeth City

The job market in Elizabeth City is powered by 8,295 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 82.5% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 17.5% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 10.9% run their own businesses, 60.9% are employed by private companies, and 21.5% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
8,295
3.8% year-over-year change
White collar
6,842
Blue collar
1,453
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 6,842 82.5% 3.9%
Blue collar 1,453 17.5% 3.3%
Employer type
Self employees
10.9%
Private companies
60.9%
Governmental workers
21.5%
Not for profit companies
6.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 907 10.9% -2.6%
Private companies 5,048 60.9% 9.7%
Governmental workers 1,785 21.5% -3.2%
Not for profit companies 555 6.7% -9.5%
Unemployment rate
7.0%
-6.7% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Elizabeth City stands at 7%, 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 Elizabeth City

How people get around in Elizabeth City

In Elizabeth City, the average commute time is 26 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 81.8% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 3.2% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
26 min
19.5% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 6,859 81.8% 2.1%
Taxicab 223 2.7% 43.0%
Walk 264 3.2% 29.4%
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 Elizabeth City by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
27909 40,869 15,804 $66,732 $85,152

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FAQs about Elizabeth City demographics 

What is the total population of Elizabeth City?

Elizabeth City has a total population of 18,871 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 +0.7% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Elizabeth City?

The gender ratio in Elizabeth City is as follows:
  • 43.1% males (8,138 residents)
  • 56.9% females (10,733 residents)

What is the median age in Elizabeth City?

The median age in Elizabeth City is 36.5.

What is the age distribution of the population in Elizabeth City?

The age distribution in Elizabeth City is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.2% (3,429 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 15.8% (2,974 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 28.1% (5,303 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 19.4% (3,658 residents)
  • Over 65: 18.6% (3,507 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Elizabeth City?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Elizabeth City is as follows:
  • White: 43.9% (8,276 residents)
  • Black or African American: 46.4% (8,755 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.7% (127 residents)
  • Asian: 1% (198 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (12 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 4.1% (769 residents)
  • Other: 3.9% (734 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 95.7% of the population in Elizabeth City.

How many housing units are there in Elizabeth City?

There are 8,689 housing units in Elizabeth City, reflecting a +0.1% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Elizabeth City has a total of 7,576 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Elizabeth City?

Elizabeth City has a median household income of $52,141, representing a +2.3% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Elizabeth City?

The employment rate is 93% in Elizabeth City, with a workforce of 8,295 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 82.5% (6,842 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 17.5% (1,453 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 10.9% (907 residents)
  • Private companies: 60.9% (5,048 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 21.5% (1,785 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 6.7% (555 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