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

Total population
389,977
0.8% year-over-year change
Median household income
$67,165/yr
2.5% year-over-year change
Housing units
175,631
1.4% year-over-year change

Forsyth County population

How many people live in Forsyth County

Forsyth County is home to 389,977 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 47.6% of Forsyth County locals are male, and 52.4% are female.

Total population
389,977
0.8% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
47.6%
185,423
Female
52.4%
204,554
Value Percent YoY change
Male 185,423 47.6% 0.8%
Female 204,554 52.4% 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 Forsyth County is 38, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.5% are children under 15, then 14.1% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 25.5% of the population, while another 25% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 17% are 65 or older.

Median age
38.4
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.5%
15 to 24
14.1%
25 to 44
25.5%
45 to 64
25%
Over 65
17%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 72,118 18.5% -0.2%
15 to 24 54,923 14.1% 0.7%
25 to 44 99,290 25.5% 1.7%
45 to 64 97,512 25% -0.5%
Over 65 66,134 17% 3.0%
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 Forsyth County, 88.9% of the population are US-born citizens, while 5.1% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 5.9% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 55.8% of locals are Caucasian, 25.2% are African American and 2.4% have Asian roots. Another 0.4% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 6.9% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 9.2% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
88.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
5.1%
Non-citizens
5.9%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 346,811 88.9% 0.0%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 20,042 5.1% 11.3%
Non-citizens 23,124 5.9% 5.5%
Racial breakdown
White
55.8%
Black or African American
25.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.4%
Asian
2.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
9.2%
Other
6.9%
Value Percent
White 217,688 55.8%
Black or African American 98,404 25.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native 1,613 0.4%
Asian 9,311 2.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 318 0.1%
Two or more races 35,900 9.2%
Other 26,743 6.9%

Households in Forsyth County

A peek inside Forsyth County households

Forsyth County has 159,925 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 61.6% are families, while the remaining 38.4% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
159,925
2.7% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
61,379
Family households
98,546
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 61,379 38.4% 3.2%
Family households 98,546 61.6% 2.4%
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 Forsyth County

The housing landscape of Forsyth County

Forsyth County's housing consists of 175,631 units, with 66.8% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 4.2% 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 3.3% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
175,631
1.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 117,350 66.8%
1 unit, attached 7,399 4.2%
2 units 2,123 1.2%
3 or 4 units 6,494 3.7%
5 to 9 units 10,630 6%
10 to 19 units 13,038 7.4%
20 to 49 units 5,381 3.1%
50 or more units 7,326 4.2%
Mobile home 5,798 3.3%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 92 0%
Homes built since 2020
3,814
100.1% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Forsyth County

In Forsyth County, the median construction year is 1984. About 6.3% 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, 14.9% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 10.6% between 2010 and 2019, and 2.2% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 11,105 6.3% 3.8%
Built between 1940 and 1949 5,983 3.4% -1.6%
Built between 1950 and 1959 17,542 10% 2.3%
Built between 1960 and 1969 16,703 9.5% -5.2%
Built between 1970 and 1979 25,722 14.6% -2.2%
Built between 1980 and 1989 25,415 14.5% -1.1%
Built between 1990 and 1999 24,671 14% -3.2%
Built between 2000 and 2009 26,141 14.9% 4.6%
Built between 2010 and 2019 18,535 10.6% 7.2%
Built in 2020 or later 3,814 2.2% 100.1%
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.

Forsyth County occupancy rates

Out of the 159,925 occupied housing units in Forsyth County, 63.6% are owner-occupied, while 36.4% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 8.9% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
159,925
2.7% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
58,280
Owner occupied
101,645
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 58,280 36.4% 0.3%
Owner occupied 101,645 63.6% 4.1%
Unoccupied housing units
8.9%
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.

Forsyth County housing costs

Housing costs in Forsyth County come to a median of $1,094 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,098.

Median housing costs per month
$1,094/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 Forsyth County
$1,098/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 Forsyth County

Forsyth County education at a glance

About 31.2% of the population in Forsyth County went to high school, while 21.2% pursued college studies. Another 8.4% earned an associate degree and 22.2% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 13.4% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 11,064 3.7% -3.7%
High school diploma 94,190 31.2% -2.0%
College diploma 63,869 21.2% -1.5%
Associate degree 25,273 8.4% 1.4%
Bachelor's degree 66,858 22.2% 5.6%
Graduate degree 40,380 13.4% 6.6%
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 Forsyth County

How much people earn in Forsyth County

The average annual household income in Forsyth County was $94,029 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +3.5% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $67,165, reflecting a +2.5% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Forsyth County
$94,029/year
3.5% year-over-year change
Median household income in Forsyth County
$67,165/year
2.5% year-over-year change

Forsyth County income by age

In Forsyth County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $72,043. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $79,732 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $36,365, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $50,508 in earnings. Overall, 85.6% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $36,365 8.9%
25 - 44 $72,043 5.4%
45 - 64 $79,732 3.0%
Over 65 $50,508 -2.4%
Above poverty level
321,475
Below poverty level
53,977
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 321,475 85.6% 1.1%
Below poverty level 53,977 14.4% -0.4%

Employment in Forsyth County

Workforce and job types in Forsyth County

The job market in Forsyth County is powered by 183,716 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 78.4% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 21.6% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.8% run their own businesses, 67% are employed by private companies, and 11.4% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
183,716
1.6% year-over-year change
White collar
144,110
Blue collar
39,606
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 144,110 78.4% 1.9%
Blue collar 39,606 21.6% 0.1%
Employer type
Self employees
8.8%
Private companies
67%
Governmental workers
11.4%
Not for profit companies
12.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 16,247 8.8% -0.1%
Private companies 123,029 67% 0.7%
Governmental workers 20,917 11.4% 2.6%
Not for profit companies 23,523 12.8% 6.6%
Unemployment rate
5.0%
-4.1% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Forsyth County stands at 5%, 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 Forsyth County

How people get around in Forsyth County

In Forsyth County, the average commute time is 23 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 82.1% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.4% 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 148,705 82.1% -0.4%
Taxicab 203 0.1% 136.1%
Bus or trolleybus 1,200 0.7% -13.8%
Subway or elevated 16 0% N/A
Ferryboat 41 0% -16.3%
Motorcycle 196 0.1% -24.6%
Bicycle 337 0.2% 17.0%
Walk 2,522 1.4% -4.4%
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 Forsyth County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
27009 2,939 1,192 $76,469 $102,127
27012 30,543 12,418 $96,250 $119,058
27019 3,544 1,779 $59,176 $64,802
27023 14,414 5,405 $107,924 $130,755
27040 12,665 4,837 $92,601 $115,444
27045 10,863 4,559 $71,086 $79,690
27050 3,823 1,575 $88,750 $104,725
27051 7,873 3,086 $74,804 $98,983
27052 10,506 4,150 $59,024 $71,576
27101 22,973 10,982 $44,198 $69,668

Find your place

Explore more communities

FAQs about Forsyth County demographics 

What is the total population of Forsyth County?

Forsyth County has a total population of 389,977 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 +0.8% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Forsyth County?

The gender ratio in Forsyth County is as follows:
  • 47.6% males (185,423 residents)
  • 52.4% females (204,554 residents)

What is the median age in Forsyth County?

The median age in Forsyth County is 38.4.

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

The age distribution in Forsyth County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.5% (72,118 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 14.1% (54,923 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 25.5% (99,290 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25% (97,512 residents)
  • Over 65: 17% (66,134 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Forsyth County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Forsyth County is as follows:
  • White: 55.8% (217,688 residents)
  • Black or African American: 25.2% (98,404 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.4% (1,613 residents)
  • Asian: 2.4% (9,311 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (318 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 9.2% (35,900 residents)
  • Other: 6.9% (26,743 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 88.9% of the population in Forsyth County.

How many housing units are there in Forsyth County?

There are 175,631 housing units in Forsyth County, reflecting a +1.4% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Forsyth County has a total of 159,925 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Forsyth County?

Forsyth County has a median household income of $67,165, representing a +2.5% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 95% in Forsyth County, with a workforce of 183,716 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 78.4% (144,110 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 21.6% (39,606 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.8% (16,247 residents)
  • Private companies: 67% (123,029 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 11.4% (20,917 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 12.8% (23,523 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