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

Total population
10,376
-0.6% year-over-year change
Median household income
$66,333/yr
7.7% year-over-year change
Housing units
4,827
0.4% year-over-year change

Gates County population

How many people live in Gates County

Gates County is home to 10,376 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 47% of Gates County locals are male, and 53% are female.

Total population
10,376
-0.6% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
47%
4,873
Female
53%
5,503
Value Percent YoY change
Male 4,873 47% -2.1%
Female 5,503 53% 0.8%
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 Gates County is 48, with the population distributed as follows: about 15.8% are children under 15, then 11% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 20.9% of the population, while another 29.6% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 22.7% are 65 or older.

Median age
47.6
Age breakdown
Under 15
15.8%
15 to 24
11%
25 to 44
20.9%
45 to 64
29.6%
Over 65
22.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 1,635 15.8% 2.8%
15 to 24 1,146 11% -11.3%
25 to 44 2,165 20.9% 7.1%
45 to 64 3,073 29.6% -5.0%
Over 65 2,357 22.7% 2.7%
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 Gates County, 98.4% of the population are US-born citizens, while 0.6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.1% of residents are non-citizens. There’s also a share of 4.6% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
98.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
0.6%
Non-citizens
1.1%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 10,207 98.4% -0.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 59 0.6% -50.8%
Non-citizens 110 1.1% 86.4%
Racial breakdown
White
63.3%
Black or African American
31%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.5%
Asian
0%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
4.6%
Other
0.6%
Value Percent
White 6,569 63.3%
Black or African American 3,220 31%
American Indian and Alaska Native 56 0.5%
Two or more races 472 4.6%
Other 59 0.6%

Households in Gates County

A peek inside Gates County households

Gates County has 4,192 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 65.4% are families, while the remaining 34.6% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
4,192
-0.6% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
1,451
Family households
2,741
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,451 34.6% -9.1%
Family households 2,741 65.4% 4.5%
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 Gates County

The housing landscape of Gates County

Gates County's housing consists of 4,827 units, with 60.9% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 0.8% 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 37.7% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
4,827
0.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 2,939 60.9%
1 unit, attached 40 0.8%
2 units 2 0%
3 or 4 units 18 0.4%
5 to 9 units 9 0.2%
Mobile home 1,819 37.7%
Homes built since 2020
85
844.4% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Gates County

In Gates County, the median construction year is 1991. About 9% 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, 17.8% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 9.3% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.8% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 435 9% -8.6%
Built between 1940 and 1949 164 3.4% -34.1%
Built between 1950 and 1959 376 7.8% -5.5%
Built between 1960 and 1969 406 8.4% 27.7%
Built between 1970 and 1979 327 6.8% 15.6%
Built between 1980 and 1989 614 12.7% 4.2%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,111 23% -11.9%
Built between 2000 and 2009 858 17.8% -2.5%
Built between 2010 and 2019 451 9.3% 30.4%
Built in 2020 or later 85 1.8% 844.4%
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.

Gates County occupancy rates

Out of the 4,192 occupied housing units in Gates County, 80.9% are owner-occupied, while 19.1% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 13.2% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
4,192
-0.6% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
802
Owner occupied
3,390
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 802 19.1% 7.4%
Owner occupied 3,390 80.9% -2.4%
Unoccupied housing units
13.2%
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.

Gates County housing costs

Housing costs in Gates County come to a median of $881 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,143.

Median housing costs per month
$881/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 Gates County
$1,143/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 Gates County

Gates County education at a glance

About 49.1% of the population in Gates County went to high school, while 27.1% pursued college studies. Another 10.3% earned an associate degree and 6.8% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 3.9% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 243 2.9% -10.0%
High school diploma 4,116 49.1% 1.4%
College diploma 2,270 27.1% -7.1%
Associate degree 861 10.3% 12.0%
Bachelor's degree 567 6.8% 19.9%
Graduate degree 325 3.9% -16.2%
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 Gates County

How much people earn in Gates County

The average annual household income in Gates County was $75,387 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +3.7% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $66,333, reflecting a +7.7% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Gates County
$75,387/year
3.7% year-over-year change
Median household income in Gates County
$66,333/year
7.7% year-over-year change

Gates County income by age

In Gates County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $85,262. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $73,462 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $63,846, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $51,875 in earnings. Overall, 90.6% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $63,846 N/A
25 - 44 $85,262 1.9%
45 - 64 $73,462 4.3%
Over 65 $51,875 48.2%
Above poverty level
9,177
Below poverty level
947
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 9,177 90.6% 2.4%
Below poverty level 947 9.4% -21.5%

Employment in Gates County

Workforce and job types in Gates County

The job market in Gates County is powered by 4,473 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 66% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 34% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 12.1% run their own businesses, 66.3% are employed by private companies, and 17.4% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
4,473
2.0% year-over-year change
White collar
2,954
Blue collar
1,519
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 2,954 66% -2.7%
Blue collar 1,519 34% 12.6%
Employer type
Self employees
12.1%
Private companies
66.3%
Governmental workers
17.4%
Not for profit companies
4.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 541 12.1% -4.2%
Private companies 2,964 66.3% 9.9%
Governmental workers 778 17.4% -1.0%
Not for profit companies 190 4.2% -43.6%
Unemployment rate
5.8%
-35.6% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Gates County stands at 5.8%, 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 Gates County

How people get around in Gates County

In Gates County, the average commute time is 42 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 93.9% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 0.4% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
42 min
2.0% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 4,177 93.9% 1.8%
Walk 16 0.4% 6.7%
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 Gates County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
27926 1,983 704 $57,333 $67,298
27935 1,464 514 $82,115 $71,289
27937 2,936 1,269 $70,086 $78,975
27938 1,790 722 $65,217 $68,347
27946 1,008 503 $74,421 $88,938
27979 1,161 459 $63,170 $79,295

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FAQs about Gates County demographics 

What is the total population of Gates County?

Gates County has a total population of 10,376 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 -0.6% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Gates County?

The gender ratio in Gates County is as follows:
  • 47% males (4,873 residents)
  • 53% females (5,503 residents)

What is the median age in Gates County?

The median age in Gates County is 47.6.

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

The age distribution in Gates County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 15.8% (1,635 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11% (1,146 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 20.9% (2,165 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 29.6% (3,073 residents)
  • Over 65: 22.7% (2,357 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Gates County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Gates County is as follows:
  • White: 63.3% (6,569 residents)
  • Black or African American: 31% (3,220 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.5% (56 residents)
  • Asian: 0% (0 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 4.6% (472 residents)
  • Other: 0.6% (59 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 98.4% of the population in Gates County.

How many housing units are there in Gates County?

There are 4,827 housing units in Gates County, reflecting a +0.4% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Gates County has a total of 4,192 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Gates County?

Gates County has a median household income of $66,333, representing a +7.7% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 94.2% in Gates County, with a workforce of 4,473 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 66% (2,954 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 34% (1,519 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 12.1% (541 residents)
  • Private companies: 66.3% (2,964 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 17.4% (778 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 4.2% (190 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