Kannapolis, NC demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
57,890
2.5% year-over-year change
Median household income
$73,836/yr
4.5% year-over-year change
Housing units
25,395
6.0% year-over-year change

Kannapolis population

How many people live in Kannapolis

Kannapolis is home to 57,890 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.6% of Kannapolis locals are male, and 49.4% are female.

Total population
57,890
2.5% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.6%
29,304
Female
49.4%
28,586
Value Percent YoY change
Male 29,304 50.6% 1.6%
Female 28,586 49.4% 3.5%
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 Kannapolis is 37, with the population distributed as follows: about 19.2% are children under 15, then 10.6% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 30.6% of the population, while another 25.1% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 14.5% are 65 or older.

Median age
36.9
Age breakdown
Under 15
19.2%
15 to 24
10.6%
25 to 44
30.6%
45 to 64
25.1%
Over 65
14.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 11,141 19.2% -3.7%
15 to 24 6,109 10.6% 5.2%
25 to 44 17,687 30.6% 6.4%
45 to 64 14,550 25.1% 3.5%
Over 65 8,403 14.5% -0.1%
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 Kannapolis, 89.1% of the population are US-born citizens, while 4.6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 6.3% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 57% of locals are Caucasian, 22.7% are African American and 3.2% have Asian roots. Another 0.1% are Indigenous American, 0.2% are Pacific Islanders, while 8% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 8.9% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
89.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
4.6%
Non-citizens
6.3%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 51,570 89.1% 0.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 2,677 4.6% 0.0%
Non-citizens 3,643 6.3% 51.5%
Racial breakdown
White
57%
Black or African American
22.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.1%
Asian
3.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.2%
Two or more races
8.9%
Other
8%
Value Percent
White 32,996 57%
Black or African American 13,153 22.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native 46 0.1%
Asian 1,825 3.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 88 0.2%
Two or more races 5,132 8.9%
Other 4,650 8%

Households in Kannapolis

A peek inside Kannapolis households

Kannapolis has 22,509 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 69.2% are families, while the remaining 30.8% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
22,509
7.7% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
6,928
Family households
15,581
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 6,928 30.8% 8.1%
Family households 15,581 69.2% 7.5%
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 Kannapolis

The housing landscape of Kannapolis

Kannapolis's housing consists of 25,395 units, with 77.3% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 2.2% 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 3.5% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
25,395
6.0% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 19,631 77.3%
1 unit, attached 548 2.2%
2 units 1,082 4.3%
3 or 4 units 408 1.6%
5 to 9 units 633 2.5%
10 to 19 units 963 3.8%
20 to 49 units 911 3.6%
50 or more units 335 1.3%
Mobile home 884 3.5%
Homes built since 2020
1,307
47.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Kannapolis

In Kannapolis, the median construction year is 1989. About 10.6% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 7.4% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 16.3% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 19.2% between 2010 and 2019, and 5.2% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 2,699 10.6% -10.7%
Built between 1940 and 1949 1,873 7.4% -1.2%
Built between 1950 and 1959 2,977 11.7% -0.3%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,864 7.3% 10.9%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,813 7.1% 24.0%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,628 6.4% -5.1%
Built between 1990 and 1999 2,215 8.7% 15.3%
Built between 2000 and 2009 4,149 16.3% 4.1%
Built between 2010 and 2019 4,870 19.2% 10.4%
Built in 2020 or later 1,307 5.2% 47.0%
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.

Kannapolis occupancy rates

Out of the 22,509 occupied housing units in Kannapolis, 65.6% are owner-occupied, while 34.4% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 11.4% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
22,509
7.7% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
7,732
Owner occupied
14,777
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 7,732 34.4% 6.8%
Owner occupied 14,777 65.6% 8.1%
Unoccupied housing units
11.4%
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.

Kannapolis housing costs

Housing costs in Kannapolis come to a median of $1,295 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,319.

Median housing costs per month
$1,295/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 Kannapolis
$1,319/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 Kannapolis

Kannapolis education at a glance

About 34.4% of the population in Kannapolis went to high school, while 23.8% pursued college studies. Another 9.2% earned an associate degree and 17.9% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 9.8% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 2,268 5% 8.3%
High school diploma 15,473 34.4% -4.4%
College diploma 10,682 23.8% 10.2%
Associate degree 4,120 9.2% 6.0%
Bachelor's degree 8,030 17.9% 8.2%
Graduate degree 4,386 9.8% 13.1%
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 Kannapolis

How much people earn in Kannapolis

The average annual household income in Kannapolis was $94,585 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +6.6% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $73,836, reflecting a +4.4% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Kannapolis
$94,585/year
6.6% year-over-year change
Median household income in Kannapolis
$73,836/year
4.5% year-over-year change

Kannapolis income by age

In Kannapolis, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $83,750. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $82,870 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $41,507, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $52,855 in earnings. Overall, 87.4% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $41,507 -8.6%
25 - 44 $83,750 4.3%
45 - 64 $82,870 2.3%
Over 65 $52,855 16.2%
Above poverty level
49,665
Below poverty level
7,166
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 49,665 87.4% 1.4%
Below poverty level 7,166 12.6% 8.3%

Average renter income in Kannapolis

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Kannapolis, their median household income was $47,332 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 33.4%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$47,332
Rent-to-income ratio
33.4%
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 Kannapolis

Workforce and job types in Kannapolis

The job market in Kannapolis is powered by 29,916 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 72.8% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 27.2% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 6.1% run their own businesses, 73.5% are employed by private companies, and 14.6% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
29,916
7.3% year-over-year change
White collar
21,764
Blue collar
8,152
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 21,764 72.8% 6.2%
Blue collar 8,152 27.2% 10.4%
Employer type
Self employees
6.1%
Private companies
73.5%
Governmental workers
14.6%
Not for profit companies
5.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,834 6.1% -1.7%
Private companies 21,982 73.5% 7.7%
Governmental workers 4,382 14.6% 11.2%
Not for profit companies 1,718 5.7% 4.4%
Unemployment rate
4.0%
-7.3% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Kannapolis stands at 4%, 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 Kannapolis

How people get around in Kannapolis

Commuting methods vary: 85.9% 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.

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 25,361 85.9% 6.5%
Taxicab 227 0.8% 81.6%
Bus or trolleybus 187 0.6% 419.4%
Ferryboat 42 0.1% N/A
Motorcycle 29 0.1% N/A
Bicycle 5 0% 0.0%
Walk 118 0.4% 131.4%
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 Kannapolis by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
28081 29,075 11,581 $71,665 $90,592
28083 28,095 10,930 $66,257 $77,871

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FAQs about Kannapolis demographics 

What is the total population of Kannapolis?

Kannapolis has a total population of 57,890 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 +2.5% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Kannapolis?

The gender ratio in Kannapolis is as follows:
  • 50.6% males (29,304 residents)
  • 49.4% females (28,586 residents)

What is the median age in Kannapolis?

The median age in Kannapolis is 36.9.

What is the age distribution of the population in Kannapolis?

The age distribution in Kannapolis is as follows:
  • Under 15: 19.2% (11,141 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 10.6% (6,109 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 30.6% (17,687 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25.1% (14,550 residents)
  • Over 65: 14.5% (8,403 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Kannapolis?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Kannapolis is as follows:
  • White: 57% (32,996 residents)
  • Black or African American: 22.7% (13,153 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.1% (46 residents)
  • Asian: 3.2% (1,825 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.2% (88 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 8.9% (5,132 residents)
  • Other: 8% (4,650 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 89.1% of the population in Kannapolis.

How many housing units are there in Kannapolis?

There are 25,395 housing units in Kannapolis, reflecting a +6.0% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Kannapolis has a total of 22,509 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Kannapolis?

Kannapolis has a median household income of $73,836, representing a +4.5% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 96% in Kannapolis, with a workforce of 29,916 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 72.8% (21,764 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 27.2% (8,152 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 6.1% (1,834 residents)
  • Private companies: 73.5% (21,982 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 14.6% (4,382 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 5.7% (1,718 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