Goldsboro, NC demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
34,383
2.8% year-over-year change
Median household income
$48,540/yr
3.3% year-over-year change
Housing units
17,294
1.9% year-over-year change

Goldsboro population

How many people live in Goldsboro

Goldsboro is home to 34,383 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.3% of Goldsboro locals are male, and 50.7% are female.

Total population
34,383
2.8% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.3%
16,959
Female
50.7%
17,424
Value Percent YoY change
Male 16,959 49.3% 5.5%
Female 17,424 50.7% 0.2%
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 Goldsboro is 37, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.8% are children under 15, then 14.3% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 26.2% of the population, while another 22.1% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 18.6% are 65 or older.

Median age
36.8
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.8%
15 to 24
14.3%
25 to 44
26.2%
45 to 64
22.1%
Over 65
18.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 6,459 18.8% -1.3%
15 to 24 4,917 14.3% 4.8%
25 to 44 9,017 26.2% 6.3%
45 to 64 7,589 22.1% -0.1%
Over 65 6,401 18.6% 4.4%
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 Goldsboro, 94.4% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.8% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 2.7% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 35.5% of locals are Caucasian, 52.6% are African American and 1.6% have Asian roots. Another 0.2% are Indigenous American, 0.2% are Pacific Islanders, while 1.7% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 8.3% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
94.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.8%
Non-citizens
2.7%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 32,472 94.4% 3.0%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 978 2.8% -15.8%
Non-citizens 933 2.7% 23.1%
Racial breakdown
White
35.5%
Black or African American
52.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
1.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.2%
Two or more races
8.3%
Other
1.7%
Value Percent
White 12,198 35.5%
Black or African American 18,070 52.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 55 0.2%
Asian 558 1.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 60 0.2%
Two or more races 2,851 8.3%
Other 591 1.7%

Households in Goldsboro

A peek inside Goldsboro households

Goldsboro has 15,145 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 55.5% are families, while the remaining 44.5% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
15,145
3.0% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
6,746
Family households
8,399
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 6,746 44.5% 1.0%
Family households 8,399 55.5% 4.8%
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 Goldsboro

The housing landscape of Goldsboro

Goldsboro's housing consists of 17,294 units, with 50.2% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 6.6% 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 4.6% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
17,294
1.9% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 8,673 50.2%
1 unit, attached 1,145 6.6%
2 units 1,752 10.1%
3 or 4 units 1,382 8%
5 to 9 units 1,542 8.9%
10 to 19 units 543 3.1%
20 to 49 units 818 4.7%
50 or more units 634 3.7%
Mobile home 805 4.6%
Homes built since 2020
153
45.7% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Goldsboro

In Goldsboro, the median construction year is 1975. About 7.6% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 4.3% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 12.4% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 6.2% 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 1,309 7.6% -5.4%
Built between 1940 and 1949 749 4.3% -6.8%
Built between 1950 and 1959 2,017 11.7% -0.8%
Built between 1960 and 1969 3,005 17.4% -6.6%
Built between 1970 and 1979 3,066 17.7% 12.5%
Built between 1980 and 1989 2,034 11.8% -1.2%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,735 10% -1.8%
Built between 2000 and 2009 2,147 12.4% 19.9%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,079 6.2% -0.8%
Built in 2020 or later 153 0.9% 45.7%
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.

Goldsboro occupancy rates

Out of the 15,145 occupied housing units in Goldsboro, 36.3% are owner-occupied, while 63.7% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 12.4% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
15,145
3.0% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
9,651
Owner occupied
5,494
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 9,651 63.7% 8.0%
Owner occupied 5,494 36.3% -4.6%
Unoccupied housing units
12.4%
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.

Goldsboro housing costs

Housing costs in Goldsboro come to a median of $969 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $971.

Median housing costs per month
$969/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 Goldsboro
$971/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 Goldsboro

Goldsboro education at a glance

About 40.7% of the population in Goldsboro went to high school, while 26.6% pursued college studies. Another 10.5% earned an associate degree and 12% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 6.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 953 3.6% 38.3%
High school diploma 10,876 40.7% 3.7%
College diploma 7,096 26.6% 4.0%
Associate degree 2,808 10.5% 3.3%
Bachelor's degree 3,218 12% 5.9%
Graduate degree 1,761 6.6% -7.4%
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 Goldsboro

How much people earn in Goldsboro

The average annual household income in Goldsboro was $68,014 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +0.7% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $48,540, reflecting a +3.3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Goldsboro
$68,014/year
0.7% year-over-year change
Median household income in Goldsboro
$48,540/year
3.3% year-over-year change

Goldsboro income by age

In Goldsboro, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $54,444. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $48,356 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $39,901, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $45,006 in earnings. Overall, 77.5% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $39,901 3.3%
25 - 44 $54,444 4.4%
45 - 64 $48,356 1.7%
Over 65 $45,006 7.4%
Above poverty level
24,989
Below poverty level
7,255
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 24,989 77.5% -1.0%
Below poverty level 7,255 22.5% 10.9%

Average renter income in Goldsboro

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Goldsboro, their median household income was $34,067 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 34.2%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$34,067
Rent-to-income ratio
34.2%
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 Goldsboro

Workforce and job types in Goldsboro

The job market in Goldsboro is powered by 12,414 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 74.2% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 25.8% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 6.1% run their own businesses, 64.1% are employed by private companies, and 22.8% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
12,414
1.8% year-over-year change
White collar
9,205
Blue collar
3,209
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 9,205 74.2% 2.9%
Blue collar 3,209 25.8% -1.2%
Employer type
Self employees
6.1%
Private companies
64.1%
Governmental workers
22.8%
Not for profit companies
7%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 759 6.1% 8.1%
Private companies 7,959 64.1% 0.8%
Governmental workers 2,830 22.8% -2.6%
Not for profit companies 866 7% 24.8%
Unemployment rate
8.0%
11.3% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Goldsboro stands at 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 Goldsboro

How people get around in Goldsboro

In Goldsboro, the average commute time is 18 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 91% 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
18 min
4.6% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 13,083 91% 0.6%
Bus or trolleybus 142 1% -24.5%
Motorcycle 19 0.1% 11.8%
Bicycle 108 0.8% 48.0%
Walk 204 1.4% 14.0%
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 Goldsboro by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
27530 37,634 15,976 $54,504 $74,762
27531 555 16 $0 $0
27534 30,415 13,560 $62,574 $87,115

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FAQs about Goldsboro demographics 

What is the total population of Goldsboro?

Goldsboro has a total population of 34,383 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 +2.8% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Goldsboro?

The gender ratio in Goldsboro is as follows:
  • 49.3% males (16,959 residents)
  • 50.7% females (17,424 residents)

What is the median age in Goldsboro?

The median age in Goldsboro is 36.8.

What is the age distribution of the population in Goldsboro?

The age distribution in Goldsboro is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.8% (6,459 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 14.3% (4,917 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 26.2% (9,017 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 22.1% (7,589 residents)
  • Over 65: 18.6% (6,401 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Goldsboro?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Goldsboro is as follows:
  • White: 35.5% (12,198 residents)
  • Black or African American: 52.6% (18,070 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (55 residents)
  • Asian: 1.6% (558 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.2% (60 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 8.3% (2,851 residents)
  • Other: 1.7% (591 residents)

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

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

How many housing units are there in Goldsboro?

There are 17,294 housing units in Goldsboro, reflecting a +1.9% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Goldsboro has a total of 15,145 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Goldsboro?

Goldsboro has a median household income of $48,540, representing a +3.3% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 92% in Goldsboro, with a workforce of 12,414 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 74.2% (9,205 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 25.8% (3,209 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 6.1% (759 residents)
  • Private companies: 64.1% (7,959 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 22.8% (2,830 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7% (866 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