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

Total population
43,771
1.6% year-over-year change
Median household income
$55,815/yr
4.4% year-over-year change
Housing units
27,803
1.5% year-over-year change

Jackson County population

How many people live in Jackson County

Jackson County is home to 43,771 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.4% of Jackson County locals are male, and 50.6% are female.

Total population
43,771
1.6% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.4%
21,621
Female
50.6%
22,150
Value Percent YoY change
Male 21,621 49.4% 1.7%
Female 22,150 50.6% 1.4%
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 Jackson County is 38, with the population distributed as follows: about 13.2% are children under 15, then 22.2% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 21.5% of the population, while another 22.8% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 20.2% are 65 or older.

Median age
38.1
Age breakdown
Under 15
13.2%
15 to 24
22.2%
25 to 44
21.5%
45 to 64
22.8%
Over 65
20.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 5,763 13.2% 3.6%
15 to 24 9,739 22.2% 2.4%
25 to 44 9,426 21.5% 1.1%
45 to 64 9,996 22.8% 1.0%
Over 65 8,847 20.2% 0.6%
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 Jackson County, 94.7% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.1% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 3.2% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 79.4% of locals are Caucasian, 2.2% are African American and 1% have Asian roots. Another 6.6% are Indigenous American, 0.4% are Pacific Islanders, while 2.4% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 7.9% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
94.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.1%
Non-citizens
3.2%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 41,443 94.7% 1.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 906 2.1% 6.5%
Non-citizens 1,422 3.2% 2.9%
Racial breakdown
White
79.4%
Black or African American
2.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
6.6%
Asian
1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.4%
Two or more races
7.9%
Other
2.4%
Value Percent
White 34,741 79.4%
Black or African American 982 2.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native 2,907 6.6%
Asian 446 1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 186 0.4%
Two or more races 3,442 7.9%
Other 1,067 2.4%

Households in Jackson County

A peek inside Jackson County households

Jackson County has 18,430 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 56.8% are families, while the remaining 43.2% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
18,430
1.5% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
7,961
Family households
10,469
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 7,961 43.2% -1.3%
Family households 10,469 56.8% 3.7%
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 Jackson County

The housing landscape of Jackson County

Jackson County's housing consists of 27,803 units, with 70% 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 15.2% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
27,803
1.5% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 19,452 70%
1 unit, attached 226 0.8%
2 units 405 1.5%
3 or 4 units 1,069 3.8%
5 to 9 units 612 2.2%
10 to 19 units 819 3%
20 to 49 units 875 3.2%
50 or more units 68 0.2%
Mobile home 4,213 15.2%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 64 0.2%
Homes built since 2020
326
56.7% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Jackson County

In Jackson County, the median construction year is 1990. About 4.4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 3.2% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 24.2% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 9% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.2% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,222 4.4% -2.9%
Built between 1940 and 1949 902 3.2% -9.3%
Built between 1950 and 1959 870 3.1% -16.4%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,966 7.1% 18.1%
Built between 1970 and 1979 4,000 14.4% -2.3%
Built between 1980 and 1989 4,918 17.7% 2.4%
Built between 1990 and 1999 4,396 15.8% 0.4%
Built between 2000 and 2009 6,716 24.2% 0.2%
Built between 2010 and 2019 2,487 9% 11.2%
Built in 2020 or later 326 1.2% 56.7%
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.

Jackson County occupancy rates

Out of the 18,430 occupied housing units in Jackson County, 60.8% are owner-occupied, while 39.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 33.7% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
18,430
1.5% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
7,229
Owner occupied
11,201
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 7,229 39.2% 6.4%
Owner occupied 11,201 60.8% -1.5%
Unoccupied housing units
33.7%
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.

Jackson County housing costs

Housing costs in Jackson County come to a median of $777 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $904.

Median housing costs per month
$777/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 Jackson County
$904/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 Jackson County

Jackson County education at a glance

About 30.9% of the population in Jackson County went to high school, while 28.6% pursued college studies. Another 10.9% earned an associate degree and 16% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 10.4% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 1,195 3.3% -4.1%
High school diploma 11,320 30.9% -1.0%
College diploma 10,475 28.6% 1.9%
Associate degree 3,976 10.9% 5.9%
Bachelor's degree 5,852 16% 4.5%
Graduate degree 3,789 10.4% 5.8%
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 Jackson County

How much people earn in Jackson County

The average annual household income in Jackson County was $80,171 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +4.4% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $55,815, reflecting a +4.4% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Jackson County
$80,171/year
4.4% year-over-year change
Median household income in Jackson County
$55,815/year
4.4% year-over-year change

Jackson County income by age

In Jackson County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $57,872. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $65,917 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $33,139, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $60,284 in earnings. Overall, 82.1% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $33,139 33.2%
25 - 44 $57,872 6.2%
45 - 64 $65,917 -2.2%
Over 65 $60,284 17.2%
Above poverty level
32,339
Below poverty level
7,055
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 32,339 82.1% 2.7%
Below poverty level 7,055 17.9% -6.2%

Employment in Jackson County

Workforce and job types in Jackson County

The job market in Jackson County is powered by 19,841 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 80% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 20% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 11% run their own businesses, 62.7% are employed by private companies, and 19.6% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
19,841
1.8% year-over-year change
White collar
15,866
Blue collar
3,975
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 15,866 80% 2.2%
Blue collar 3,975 20% 0.2%
Employer type
Self employees
11%
Private companies
62.7%
Governmental workers
19.6%
Not for profit companies
6.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 2,173 11% -2.5%
Private companies 12,433 62.7% 6.0%
Governmental workers 3,884 19.6% -7.0%
Not for profit companies 1,351 6.8% 0.1%
Unemployment rate
4.9%
-23.1% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Jackson County stands at 4.9%, 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 Jackson County

How people get around in Jackson County

In Jackson County, the average commute time is 20 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 86.2% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 4.3% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
20 min
-1.9% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 16,361 86.2% 0.1%
Motorcycle 19 0.1% 35.7%
Walk 823 4.3% 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 Jackson County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
28707 461 199 $0 $61,996
28717 1,265 639 $76,085 $132,704
28719 6,786 2,820 $60,658 $66,998
28723 12,756 4,384 $45,568 $64,329
28725 90 53 $57,750 $65,423
28736 1,000 473 $70,855 $138,398
28741 4,257 2,336 $70,392 $141,237
28751 4,159 1,859 $69,057 $88,788
28774 1,451 703 $154,635 $187,172
28779 18,064 8,295 $57,727 $70,849

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FAQs about Jackson County demographics 

What is the total population of Jackson County?

Jackson County has a total population of 43,771 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 +1.6% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Jackson County?

The gender ratio in Jackson County is as follows:
  • 49.4% males (21,621 residents)
  • 50.6% females (22,150 residents)

What is the median age in Jackson County?

The median age in Jackson County is 38.1.

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

The age distribution in Jackson County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 13.2% (5,763 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 22.2% (9,739 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 21.5% (9,426 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 22.8% (9,996 residents)
  • Over 65: 20.2% (8,847 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Jackson County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Jackson County is as follows:
  • White: 79.4% (34,741 residents)
  • Black or African American: 2.2% (982 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 6.6% (2,907 residents)
  • Asian: 1% (446 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.4% (186 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 7.9% (3,442 residents)
  • Other: 2.4% (1,067 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 94.7% of the population in Jackson County.

How many housing units are there in Jackson County?

There are 27,803 housing units in Jackson County, reflecting a +1.5% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Jackson County has a total of 18,430 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Jackson County?

Jackson County has a median household income of $55,815, representing a +4.4% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 95.1% in Jackson County, with a workforce of 19,841 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 80% (15,866 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 20% (3,975 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 11% (2,173 residents)
  • Private companies: 62.7% (12,433 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 19.6% (3,884 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 6.8% (1,351 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