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

Total population
7,363
-0.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$35,524/yr
-1.0% year-over-year change
Housing units
3,335
2.8% year-over-year change

Forest City population

How many people live in Forest City

Forest City is home to 7,363 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 46% of Forest City locals are male, and 54% are female.

Total population
7,363
-0.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
46%
3,384
Female
54%
3,979
Value Percent YoY change
Male 3,384 46% 3.4%
Female 3,979 54% -2.9%
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 Forest City is 35, with the population distributed as follows: about 23.4% are children under 15, then 12.5% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 21.1% of the population, while another 25% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 18% are 65 or older.

Median age
35.1
Age breakdown
Under 15
23.4%
15 to 24
12.5%
25 to 44
21.1%
45 to 64
25%
Over 65
18%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 1,724 23.4% -11.5%
15 to 24 918 12.5% 10.1%
25 to 44 1,551 21.1% 0.8%
45 to 64 1,843 25% 0.5%
Over 65 1,327 18% 9.4%
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 Forest City, 94.4% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.4% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 4.2% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 57.6% of locals are Caucasian, 21.8% are African American and 1.6% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 12.1% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
94.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.4%
Non-citizens
4.2%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 6,950 94.4% 0.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 101 1.4% -55.1%
Non-citizens 312 4.2% 30.5%
Racial breakdown
White
57.6%
Black or African American
21.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.1%
Asian
1.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
12.1%
Other
6.8%
Value Percent
White 4,245 57.6%
Black or African American 1,603 21.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native 5 0.1%
Asian 116 1.6%
Two or more races 892 12.1%
Other 502 6.8%

Households in Forest City

A peek inside Forest City households

Forest City has 2,681 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 61.2% are families, while the remaining 38.8% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
2,681
1.4% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
1,040
Family households
1,641
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,040 38.8% -3.9%
Family households 1,641 61.2% 5.0%
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 Forest City

The housing landscape of Forest City

Forest City's housing consists of 3,335 units, with 70.6% 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 4.6% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
3,335
2.8% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 2,353 70.6%
1 unit, attached 79 2.4%
2 units 135 4%
3 or 4 units 259 7.8%
5 to 9 units 209 6.3%
10 to 19 units 51 1.5%
20 to 49 units 68 2%
50 or more units 29 0.9%
Mobile home 152 4.6%
Homes built since 2020
23
43.8% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Forest City

In Forest City, the median construction year is 1965. About 5.6% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 16% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 186 5.6% -1.1%
Built between 1940 and 1949 535 16% -2.2%
Built between 1950 and 1959 611 18.3% 9.1%
Built between 1960 and 1969 614 18.4% 13.3%
Built between 1970 and 1979 671 20.1% -11.1%
Built between 1980 and 1989 346 10.4% 18.5%
Built between 1990 and 1999 264 7.9% 38.2%
Built between 2000 and 2009 85 2.6% -44.4%
Built in 2020 or later 23 0.7% 43.8%
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.

Forest City occupancy rates

Out of the 2,681 occupied housing units in Forest City, 45.4% are owner-occupied, while 54.6% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 19.6% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
2,681
1.4% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,463
Owner occupied
1,218
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,463 54.6% -6.1%
Owner occupied 1,218 45.4% 12.1%
Unoccupied housing units
19.6%
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.

Forest City housing costs

Housing costs in Forest City come to a median of $809 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $813.

Median housing costs per month
$809/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 Forest City
$813/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 Forest City

Forest City education at a glance

About 50.9% of the population in Forest City went to high school, while 26.5% pursued college studies. Another 5.2% earned an associate degree and 7.2% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 5.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 246 4.6% 9.8%
High school diploma 2,752 50.9% 8.7%
College diploma 1,435 26.5% 4.8%
Associate degree 283 5.2% 1.1%
Bachelor's degree 389 7.2% -26.2%
Graduate degree 303 5.6% -2.9%
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 Forest City

How much people earn in Forest City

The average annual household income in Forest City was $54,315 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -2.9% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $35,524, reflecting a -1% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Forest City
$54,315/year
-2.9% year-over-year change
Median household income in Forest City
$35,524/year
-1.0% year-over-year change

Forest City income by age

In Forest City, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $37,143. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $36,250 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $61,765, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $28,443 in earnings. Overall, 68.2% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $61,765 -6.4%
25 - 44 $37,143 2.3%
45 - 64 $36,250 1.1%
Over 65 $28,443 -8.7%
Above poverty level
4,908
Below poverty level
2,292
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 4,908 68.2% 2.3%
Below poverty level 2,292 31.8% -2.4%

Employment in Forest City

Workforce and job types in Forest City

The job market in Forest City is powered by 2,682 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 68.9% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 31.1% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 18.5% run their own businesses, 68.9% are employed by private companies, and 9.4% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
2,682
-3.4% year-over-year change
White collar
1,849
Blue collar
833
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 1,849 68.9% -2.7%
Blue collar 833 31.1% -4.8%
Employer type
Self employees
18.5%
Private companies
68.9%
Governmental workers
9.4%
Not for profit companies
3.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 497 18.5% -0.4%
Private companies 1,849 68.9% -1.9%
Governmental workers 251 9.4% -4.6%
Not for profit companies 85 3.2% -34.6%
Unemployment rate
7.6%
9.5% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Forest City 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 Forest City

How people get around in Forest City

Commuting methods vary: 90.6% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.7% 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 2,330 90.6% -7.5%
Bus or trolleybus 19 0.7% -9.5%
Walk 69 2.7% 91.7%
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 Forest City by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
28043 20,930 8,271 $42,276 $64,177

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FAQs about Forest City demographics 

What is the total population of Forest City?

Forest City has a total population of 7,363 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 -0.1% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Forest City?

The gender ratio in Forest City is as follows:
  • 46% males (3,384 residents)
  • 54% females (3,979 residents)

What is the median age in Forest City?

The median age in Forest City is 35.1.

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

The age distribution in Forest City is as follows:
  • Under 15: 23.4% (1,724 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.5% (918 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 21.1% (1,551 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25% (1,843 residents)
  • Over 65: 18% (1,327 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Forest City?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Forest City is as follows:
  • White: 57.6% (4,245 residents)
  • Black or African American: 21.8% (1,603 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.1% (5 residents)
  • Asian: 1.6% (116 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 12.1% (892 residents)
  • Other: 6.8% (502 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 94.4% of the population in Forest City.

How many housing units are there in Forest City?

There are 3,335 housing units in Forest City, reflecting a +2.8% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Forest City has a total of 2,681 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Forest City?

Forest City has a median household income of $35,524, representing a -1.0% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 92.4% in Forest City, with a workforce of 2,682 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 68.9% (1,849 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 31.1% (833 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 18.5% (497 residents)
  • Private companies: 68.9% (1,849 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 9.4% (251 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 3.2% (85 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