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

Total population
74,386
3.4% year-over-year change
Median household income
$74,240/yr
4.0% year-over-year change
Housing units
31,767
3.2% year-over-year change

Franklin County population

How many people live in Franklin County

Franklin County is home to 74,386 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.5% of Franklin County locals are male, and 50.5% are female.

Total population
74,386
3.4% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.5%
36,848
Female
50.5%
37,538
Value Percent YoY change
Male 36,848 49.5% 2.9%
Female 37,538 50.5% 3.8%
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 Franklin County is 41, with the population distributed as follows: about 17.8% are children under 15, then 12.2% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 24.9% of the population, while another 27.6% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 17.5% are 65 or older.

Median age
41
Age breakdown
Under 15
17.8%
15 to 24
12.2%
25 to 44
24.9%
45 to 64
27.6%
Over 65
17.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 13,281 17.8% 2.9%
15 to 24 9,038 12.2% 3.5%
25 to 44 18,524 24.9% 4.1%
45 to 64 20,555 27.6% 1.5%
Over 65 12,988 17.5% 5.8%
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 Franklin County, 93.1% of the population are US-born citizens, while 3.4% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 3.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 61.6% of locals are Caucasian, 23.4% are African American and 1.1% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 7.3% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
93.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
3.4%
Non-citizens
3.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 69,256 93.1% 2.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 2,567 3.4% 31.8%
Non-citizens 2,563 3.4% 0.8%
Racial breakdown
White
61.6%
Black or African American
23.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.3%
Asian
1.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
7.3%
Other
6.3%
Value Percent
White 45,832 61.6%
Black or African American 17,406 23.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native 191 0.3%
Asian 832 1.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 2 0%
Two or more races 5,441 7.3%
Other 4,682 6.3%

Households in Franklin County

A peek inside Franklin County households

Franklin County has 28,529 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 71.8% are families, while the remaining 28.2% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
28,529
4.0% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
8,044
Family households
20,485
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 8,044 28.2% 6.8%
Family households 20,485 71.8% 2.9%
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 Franklin County

The housing landscape of Franklin County

Franklin County's housing consists of 31,767 units, with 71.5% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 0.4% 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 23.5% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
31,767
3.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 22,721 71.5%
1 unit, attached 111 0.4%
2 units 344 1.1%
3 or 4 units 226 0.7%
5 to 9 units 303 1%
10 to 19 units 190 0.6%
20 to 49 units 157 0.5%
50 or more units 90 0.3%
Mobile home 7,469 23.5%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 156 0.5%
Homes built since 2020
1,875
43.6% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Franklin County

In Franklin County, the median construction year is 1997. About 5.2% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 2.7% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 20.9% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 18.2% between 2010 and 2019, and 5.9% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,637 5.2% -8.4%
Built between 1940 and 1949 849 2.7% -5.5%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,085 3.4% -22.4%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,390 4.4% -16.4%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,929 6.1% -8.3%
Built between 1980 and 1989 4,426 13.9% -1.2%
Built between 1990 and 1999 6,177 19.4% -0.1%
Built between 2000 and 2009 6,631 20.9% 6.1%
Built between 2010 and 2019 5,768 18.2% 22.1%
Built in 2020 or later 1,875 5.9% 43.6%
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.

Franklin County occupancy rates

Out of the 28,529 occupied housing units in Franklin County, 78.6% are owner-occupied, while 21.4% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 10.2% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
28,529
4.0% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
6,109
Owner occupied
22,420
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 6,109 21.4% 1.8%
Owner occupied 22,420 78.6% 4.6%
Unoccupied housing units
10.2%
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.

Franklin County housing costs

Housing costs in Franklin County come to a median of $1,117 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,083.

Median housing costs per month
$1,117/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 Franklin County
$1,083/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 Franklin County

Franklin County education at a glance

About 37.7% of the population in Franklin County went to high school, while 22.5% pursued college studies. Another 9.8% earned an associate degree and 17.3% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 8% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 2,790 4.8% 4.9%
High school diploma 21,916 37.7% 2.5%
College diploma 13,069 22.5% -2.3%
Associate degree 5,707 9.8% -2.6%
Bachelor's degree 10,068 17.3% 9.8%
Graduate degree 4,642 8% 22.5%
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 Franklin County

How much people earn in Franklin County

The average annual household income in Franklin County was $92,255 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +5.6% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $74,240, reflecting a +4% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Franklin County
$92,255/year
5.6% year-over-year change
Median household income in Franklin County
$74,240/year
4.0% year-over-year change

Franklin County income by age

In Franklin County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $86,578. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $88,991 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $55,605, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $44,642 in earnings. Overall, 89% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $55,605 1.9%
25 - 44 $86,578 5.2%
45 - 64 $88,991 7.3%
Over 65 $44,642 1.9%
Above poverty level
64,200
Below poverty level
7,939
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 64,200 89% 2.0%
Below poverty level 7,939 11% 13.1%

Employment in Franklin County

Workforce and job types in Franklin County

The job market in Franklin County is powered by 35,129 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 73.3% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 26.7% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9.4% run their own businesses, 69.9% are employed by private companies, and 15.7% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
35,129
3.6% year-over-year change
White collar
25,751
Blue collar
9,378
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 25,751 73.3% 4.6%
Blue collar 9,378 26.7% 0.9%
Employer type
Self employees
9.4%
Private companies
69.9%
Governmental workers
15.7%
Not for profit companies
5%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 3,303 9.4% 8.8%
Private companies 24,552 69.9% 3.2%
Governmental workers 5,505 15.7% 4.2%
Not for profit companies 1,769 5% -2.2%
Unemployment rate
4.6%
-14.7% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Franklin County stands at 4.6%, 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 Franklin County

How people get around in Franklin County

Commuting methods vary: 86.4% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 0.7% 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 30,015 86.4% 1.6%
Taxicab 7 0% 0.0%
Bus or trolleybus 28 0.1% -20.0%
Motorcycle 7 0% -72.0%
Walk 246 0.7% 42.2%
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 Franklin County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
27508 2,362 720 $50,368 $80,916
27525 17,110 6,701 $73,036 $91,695
27544 3,329 1,300 $66,304 $77,426
27549 25,543 9,862 $67,879 $90,060
27882 8,358 3,121 $52,691 $71,218
27596 22,232 8,482 $95,940 $109,823
27597 30,184 10,976 $84,625 $96,132
27816 3,019 1,419 $33,718 $43,986

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FAQs about Franklin County demographics 

What is the total population of Franklin County?

Franklin County has a total population of 74,386 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 +3.4% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Franklin County?

The gender ratio in Franklin County is as follows:
  • 49.5% males (36,848 residents)
  • 50.5% females (37,538 residents)

What is the median age in Franklin County?

The median age in Franklin County is 41.

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

The age distribution in Franklin County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 17.8% (13,281 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.2% (9,038 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 24.9% (18,524 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 27.6% (20,555 residents)
  • Over 65: 17.5% (12,988 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Franklin County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Franklin County is as follows:
  • White: 61.6% (45,832 residents)
  • Black or African American: 23.4% (17,406 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.3% (191 residents)
  • Asian: 1.1% (832 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (2 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 7.3% (5,441 residents)
  • Other: 6.3% (4,682 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 93.1% of the population in Franklin County.

How many housing units are there in Franklin County?

There are 31,767 housing units in Franklin County, reflecting a +3.2% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Franklin County has a total of 28,529 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Franklin County?

Franklin County has a median household income of $74,240, representing a +4.0% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 95.4% in Franklin County, with a workforce of 35,129 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 73.3% (25,751 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 26.7% (9,378 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9.4% (3,303 residents)
  • Private companies: 69.9% (24,552 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 15.7% (5,505 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 5% (1,769 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