Fayetteville, NC demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
210,815
0.5% year-over-year change
Median household income
$58,407/yr
3.6% year-over-year change
Housing units
91,985
0.7% year-over-year change

Fayetteville population

How many people live in Fayetteville

Fayetteville is home to 210,815 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.7% of Fayetteville locals are male, and 49.3% are female.

Total population
210,815
0.5% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.7%
106,859
Female
49.3%
103,956
Value Percent YoY change
Male 106,859 50.7% 0.1%
Female 103,956 49.3% 1.0%
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 Fayetteville is 31, with the population distributed as follows: about 20.4% are children under 15, then 17.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 30.9% of the population, while another 18.1% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 12.8% are 65 or older.

Median age
30.6
Age breakdown
Under 15
20.4%
15 to 24
17.8%
25 to 44
30.9%
45 to 64
18.1%
Over 65
12.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 42,939 20.4% -0.4%
15 to 24 37,522 17.8% 2.0%
25 to 44 65,096 30.9% 0.9%
45 to 64 38,165 18.1% -1.4%
Over 65 27,093 12.8% 1.8%
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 Fayetteville, 87.5% of the population are US-born citizens, while 9.1% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 3.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 36.8% of locals are Caucasian, 42.6% are African American and 3.1% have Asian roots. Another 0.9% are Indigenous American, 0.4% are Pacific Islanders, while 4.1% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 12.1% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
87.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
9.1%
Non-citizens
3.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 184,447 87.5% 0.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 19,231 9.1% 4.7%
Non-citizens 7,137 3.4% 1.4%
Racial breakdown
White
36.8%
Black or African American
42.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.9%
Asian
3.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.4%
Two or more races
12.1%
Other
4.1%
Value Percent
White 77,570 36.8%
Black or African American 89,796 42.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 1,860 0.9%
Asian 6,488 3.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 895 0.4%
Two or more races 25,545 12.1%
Other 8,661 4.1%

Households in Fayetteville

A peek inside Fayetteville households

Fayetteville has 82,689 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 58.5% are families, while the remaining 41.5% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
82,689
1.5% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
34,322
Family households
48,367
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 34,322 41.5% 0.7%
Family households 48,367 58.5% 2.0%
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 Fayetteville

The housing landscape of Fayetteville

Fayetteville's housing consists of 91,985 units, with 61.6% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 2.6% 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 3% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
91,985
0.7% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 56,625 61.6%
1 unit, attached 2,391 2.6%
2 units 3,603 3.9%
3 or 4 units 4,474 4.9%
5 to 9 units 8,675 9.4%
10 to 19 units 7,435 8.1%
20 to 49 units 4,580 5%
50 or more units 1,447 1.6%
Mobile home 2,721 3%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 34 0%
Homes built since 2020
839
51.2% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Fayetteville

In Fayetteville, the median construction year is 1984. About 1.8% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 2.5% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 14.4% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 9.6% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.9% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,619 1.8% -4.5%
Built between 1940 and 1949 2,277 2.5% -10.0%
Built between 1950 and 1959 6,243 6.8% 4.5%
Built between 1960 and 1969 12,694 13.8% 0.0%
Built between 1970 and 1979 17,775 19.3% -0.3%
Built between 1980 and 1989 14,778 16.1% 1.6%
Built between 1990 and 1999 13,732 14.9% -3.1%
Built between 2000 and 2009 13,230 14.4% 3.5%
Built between 2010 and 2019 8,798 9.6% 3.2%
Built in 2020 or later 839 0.9% 51.2%
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.

Fayetteville occupancy rates

Out of the 82,689 occupied housing units in Fayetteville, 47.4% are owner-occupied, while 52.6% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 10.1% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
82,689
1.5% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
43,492
Owner occupied
39,197
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 43,492 52.6% -0.3%
Owner occupied 39,197 47.4% 3.5%
Unoccupied housing units
10.1%
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.

Fayetteville housing costs

Housing costs in Fayetteville come to a median of $1,207 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,250.

Median housing costs per month
$1,207/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 Fayetteville
$1,250/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 Fayetteville

Fayetteville education at a glance

About 32.8% of the population in Fayetteville went to high school, while 29.9% pursued college studies. Another 10.7% earned an associate degree and 16.6% 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 2,664 1.7% 1.4%
High school diploma 52,632 32.8% 0.4%
College diploma 48,038 29.9% -1.9%
Associate degree 17,141 10.7% 4.6%
Bachelor's degree 26,635 16.6% 1.4%
Graduate degree 13,587 8.5% 3.9%
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 Fayetteville

How much people earn in Fayetteville

The average annual household income in Fayetteville was $76,848 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 $58,407, reflecting a +3.6% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Fayetteville
$76,848/year
4.2% year-over-year change
Median household income in Fayetteville
$58,407/year
3.6% year-over-year change

Fayetteville income by age

In Fayetteville, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $61,529. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $67,210 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $46,418, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $48,295 in earnings. Overall, 82.3% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $46,418 7.8%
25 - 44 $61,529 5.5%
45 - 64 $67,210 4.4%
Over 65 $48,295 -0.3%
Above poverty level
158,011
Below poverty level
33,924
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 158,011 82.3% 1.4%
Below poverty level 33,924 17.7% -1.3%

Average renter income in Fayetteville

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Fayetteville, their median household income was $41,644 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 36%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$41,644
Rent-to-income ratio
36%
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 Fayetteville

Workforce and job types in Fayetteville

The job market in Fayetteville is powered by 76,429 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 78% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 22% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.2% run their own businesses, 64.9% are employed by private companies, and 21.2% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
76,429
1.2% year-over-year change
White collar
59,648
Blue collar
16,781
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 59,648 78% 2.6%
Blue collar 16,781 22% -3.4%
Employer type
Self employees
8.2%
Private companies
64.9%
Governmental workers
21.2%
Not for profit companies
5.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 6,303 8.2% -0.6%
Private companies 49,606 64.9% 0.4%
Governmental workers 16,185 21.2% 3.3%
Not for profit companies 4,335 5.7% 6.4%
Unemployment rate
7.9%
-2.8% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Fayetteville stands at 7.9%, 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 Fayetteville

How people get around in Fayetteville

Commuting methods vary: 83.6% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 6.7% 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 85,253 83.6% 0.2%
Taxicab 532 0.5% 0.6%
Bus or trolleybus 438 0.4% -16.9%
Subway or elevated 37 0% N/A
Ferryboat 22 0% -31.2%
Motorcycle 107 0.1% 11.5%
Bicycle 97 0.1% -8.5%
Walk 6,844 6.7% -3.4%
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 Fayetteville 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
28314 55,834 22,851 $62,249 $76,642

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FAQs about Fayetteville demographics 

What is the total population of Fayetteville?

Fayetteville has a total population of 210,815 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 Fayetteville?

The gender ratio in Fayetteville is as follows:
  • 50.7% males (106,859 residents)
  • 49.3% females (103,956 residents)

What is the median age in Fayetteville?

The median age in Fayetteville is 30.6.

What is the age distribution of the population in Fayetteville?

The age distribution in Fayetteville is as follows:
  • Under 15: 20.4% (42,939 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 17.8% (37,522 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 30.9% (65,096 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 18.1% (38,165 residents)
  • Over 65: 12.8% (27,093 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Fayetteville?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Fayetteville is as follows:
  • White: 36.8% (77,570 residents)
  • Black or African American: 42.6% (89,796 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.9% (1,860 residents)
  • Asian: 3.1% (6,488 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.4% (895 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 12.1% (25,545 residents)
  • Other: 4.1% (8,661 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 87.5% of the population in Fayetteville.

How many housing units are there in Fayetteville?

There are 91,985 housing units in Fayetteville, reflecting a +0.7% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Fayetteville has a total of 82,689 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Fayetteville?

Fayetteville has a median household income of $58,407, representing a +3.6% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 92.1% in Fayetteville, with a workforce of 76,429 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 78% (59,648 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 22% (16,781 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.2% (6,303 residents)
  • Private companies: 64.9% (49,606 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 21.2% (16,185 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 5.7% (4,335 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