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

Total population
139,150
1.9% year-over-year change
Median household income
$71,287/yr
3.3% year-over-year change
Housing units
54,902
1.6% year-over-year change

Harnett County population

How many people live in Harnett County

Harnett County is home to 139,150 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.6% of Harnett County locals are male, and 50.4% are female.

Total population
139,150
1.9% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.6%
68,978
Female
50.4%
70,172
Value Percent YoY change
Male 68,978 49.6% 1.9%
Female 70,172 50.4% 2.0%
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 Harnett County is 36, with the population distributed as follows: about 21.4% are children under 15, then 12.4% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 29.4% of the population, while another 23.1% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 13.7% are 65 or older.

Median age
35.6
Age breakdown
Under 15
21.4%
15 to 24
12.4%
25 to 44
29.4%
45 to 64
23.1%
Over 65
13.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 29,704 21.4% 0.6%
15 to 24 17,330 12.4% 2.1%
25 to 44 40,922 29.4% 2.1%
45 to 64 32,121 23.1% 1.5%
Over 65 19,073 13.7% 4.2%
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 Harnett County, 90.2% of the population are US-born citizens, while 6.1% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 3.7% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 62% of locals are Caucasian, 20.2% are African American and 1% have Asian roots. Another 1.2% are Indigenous American, 0.2% are Pacific Islanders, while 6.2% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 9.3% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
90.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
6.1%
Non-citizens
3.7%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 125,474 90.2% 1.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 8,474 6.1% 7.7%
Non-citizens 5,202 3.7% 4.5%
Racial breakdown
White
62%
Black or African American
20.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1.2%
Asian
1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.2%
Two or more races
9.3%
Other
6.2%
Value Percent
White 86,245 62%
Black or African American 28,104 20.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native 1,674 1.2%
Asian 1,331 1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 229 0.2%
Two or more races 12,916 9.3%
Other 8,651 6.2%

Households in Harnett County

A peek inside Harnett County households

Harnett County has 49,845 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 69.5% are families, while the remaining 30.5% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
49,845
2.5% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
15,210
Family households
34,635
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 15,210 30.5% 0.3%
Family households 34,635 69.5% 3.5%
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 Harnett County

The housing landscape of Harnett County

Harnett County's housing consists of 54,902 units, with 71.1% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 3% 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 18% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
54,902
1.6% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 39,030 71.1%
1 unit, attached 1,635 3%
2 units 1,164 2.1%
3 or 4 units 1,623 3%
5 to 9 units 956 1.7%
10 to 19 units 319 0.6%
20 to 49 units 181 0.3%
50 or more units 91 0.2%
Mobile home 9,863 18%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 40 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
2,007
111.9% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Harnett County

In Harnett County, the median construction year is 1997. About 4.7% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 2.3% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 22.7% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 17.6% between 2010 and 2019, and 3.7% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 2,596 4.7% 5.5%
Built between 1940 and 1949 1,240 2.3% -12.3%
Built between 1950 and 1959 2,353 4.3% 3.6%
Built between 1960 and 1969 3,512 6.4% 9.1%
Built between 1970 and 1979 5,358 9.8% 0.5%
Built between 1980 and 1989 5,756 10.5% -1.9%
Built between 1990 and 1999 9,918 18.1% -8.8%
Built between 2000 and 2009 12,484 22.7% 4.9%
Built between 2010 and 2019 9,678 17.6% -0.9%
Built in 2020 or later 2,007 3.7% 111.9%
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.

Harnett County occupancy rates

Out of the 49,845 occupied housing units in Harnett County, 71% are owner-occupied, while 29% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 9.2% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
49,845
2.5% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
14,441
Owner occupied
35,404
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 14,441 29% -2.7%
Owner occupied 35,404 71% 4.7%
Unoccupied housing units
9.2%
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.

Harnett County housing costs

Housing costs in Harnett County come to a median of $1,176 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,112.

Median housing costs per month
$1,176/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 Harnett County
$1,112/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 Harnett County

Harnett County education at a glance

About 36.6% of the population in Harnett County went to high school, while 24.5% pursued college studies. Another 12.3% earned an associate degree and 15.2% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 7.5% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 4,047 3.9% -0.9%
High school diploma 37,927 36.6% -0.1%
College diploma 25,417 24.5% 4.7%
Associate degree 12,803 12.3% 1.8%
Bachelor's degree 15,799 15.2% 3.0%
Graduate degree 7,763 7.5% 6.7%
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 Harnett County

How much people earn in Harnett County

The average annual household income in Harnett County was $89,999 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +6.9% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $71,287, reflecting a +3.3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Harnett County
$89,999/year
6.9% year-over-year change
Median household income in Harnett County
$71,287/year
3.3% year-over-year change

Harnett County income by age

In Harnett County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $79,908. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $82,543 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $45,459, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $43,103 in earnings. Overall, 86.4% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $45,459 10.1%
25 - 44 $79,908 3.0%
45 - 64 $82,543 4.5%
Over 65 $43,103 6.3%
Above poverty level
115,983
Below poverty level
18,199
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 115,983 86.4% 3.0%
Below poverty level 18,199 13.6% -3.5%

Employment in Harnett County

Workforce and job types in Harnett County

The job market in Harnett County is powered by 56,865 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 72.1% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 27.9% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.8% run their own businesses, 68.5% are employed by private companies, and 17.5% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
56,865
3.0% year-over-year change
White collar
41,005
Blue collar
15,860
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 41,005 72.1% 3.9%
Blue collar 15,860 27.9% 0.8%
Employer type
Self employees
8.8%
Private companies
68.5%
Governmental workers
17.5%
Not for profit companies
5.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 5,022 8.8% 11.5%
Private companies 38,929 68.5% 4.0%
Governmental workers 9,934 17.5% -3.2%
Not for profit companies 2,980 5.2% -0.5%
Unemployment rate
4.7%
-3.7% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Harnett County stands at 4.7%, 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 Harnett County

How people get around in Harnett County

Commuting methods vary: 88.8% 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.

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 53,358 88.8% 0.7%
Bus or trolleybus 31 0% 55.0%
Subway or elevated 6 0% N/A
Motorcycle 68 0.1% -2.9%
Bicycle 123 0.2% 33.7%
Walk 813 1.4% -19.3%
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 Harnett County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
28323 4,758 1,729 $69,095 $81,192
28326 26,068 8,476 $75,431 $88,755
28334 22,873 9,051 $53,036 $77,432
27332 36,947 13,513 $78,447 $95,784
27501 24,806 9,023 $73,336 $93,839
27505 8,152 2,829 $79,462 $90,227
27521 6,549 2,627 $61,590 $86,437
27526 61,588 22,625 $110,017 $123,616
27540 47,771 15,996 $128,989 $155,789
27546 21,419 7,515 $66,746 $85,777

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FAQs about Harnett County demographics 

What is the total population of Harnett County?

Harnett County has a total population of 139,150 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 +1.9% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Harnett County?

The gender ratio in Harnett County is as follows:
  • 49.6% males (68,978 residents)
  • 50.4% females (70,172 residents)

What is the median age in Harnett County?

The median age in Harnett County is 35.6.

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

The age distribution in Harnett County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 21.4% (29,704 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.4% (17,330 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 29.4% (40,922 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 23.1% (32,121 residents)
  • Over 65: 13.7% (19,073 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Harnett County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Harnett County is as follows:
  • White: 62% (86,245 residents)
  • Black or African American: 20.2% (28,104 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1.2% (1,674 residents)
  • Asian: 1% (1,331 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.2% (229 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 9.3% (12,916 residents)
  • Other: 6.2% (8,651 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 90.2% of the population in Harnett County.

How many housing units are there in Harnett County?

There are 54,902 housing units in Harnett County, reflecting a +1.6% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Harnett County has a total of 49,845 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Harnett County?

Harnett County has a median household income of $71,287, 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 Harnett County?

The employment rate is 95.3% in Harnett County, with a workforce of 56,865 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 72.1% (41,005 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 27.9% (15,860 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.8% (5,022 residents)
  • Private companies: 68.5% (38,929 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 17.5% (9,934 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 5.2% (2,980 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