Kill Devil Hills, NC demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
7,761
0.4% year-over-year change
Median household income
$89,773/yr
4.7% year-over-year change
Housing units
7,119
0.4% year-over-year change

Kill Devil Hills population

How many people live in Kill Devil Hills

Kill Devil Hills is home to 7,761 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49% of Kill Devil Hills locals are male, and 51% are female.

Total population
7,761
0.4% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49%
3,804
Female
51%
3,957
Value Percent YoY change
Male 3,804 49% 1.4%
Female 3,957 51% -0.5%
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 Kill Devil Hills is 48, with the population distributed as follows: about 14.2% are children under 15, then 11.1% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 21% of the population, while another 34.7% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 19% are 65 or older.

Median age
48.5
Age breakdown
Under 15
14.2%
15 to 24
11.1%
25 to 44
21%
45 to 64
34.7%
Over 65
19%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 1,106 14.2% 8.2%
15 to 24 863 11.1% 2.2%
25 to 44 1,630 21% 11.3%
45 to 64 2,691 34.7% -9.6%
Over 65 1,471 19% 3.7%
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 Kill Devil Hills, 92% of the population are US-born citizens, while 4.8% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 3.1% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 81.9% of locals are Caucasian, 1.2% are African American and 1.3% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 12.5% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
92%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
4.8%
Non-citizens
3.1%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 7,141 92% 1.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 376 4.8% -7.2%
Non-citizens 244 3.1% -17.6%
Racial breakdown
White
81.9%
Black or African American
1.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
1.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
12.5%
Other
3%
Value Percent
White 6,354 81.9%
Black or African American 93 1.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native 19 0.2%
Asian 98 1.3%
Two or more races 967 12.5%
Other 230 3%

Households in Kill Devil Hills

A peek inside Kill Devil Hills households

Kill Devil Hills has 3,384 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 63.1% are families, while the remaining 36.9% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
3,384
1.9% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
1,249
Family households
2,135
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,249 36.9% 3.0%
Family households 2,135 63.1% 1.2%
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 Kill Devil Hills

The housing landscape of Kill Devil Hills

Kill Devil Hills's housing consists of 7,119 units, with 78.4% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1% 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 1.2% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
7,119
0.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 5,585 78.4%
1 unit, attached 73 1%
2 units 140 2%
3 or 4 units 219 3.1%
5 to 9 units 421 5.9%
10 to 19 units 143 2%
20 to 49 units 367 5.2%
50 or more units 84 1.2%
Mobile home 87 1.2%
Homes built since 2020
55
52.8% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Kill Devil Hills

In Kill Devil Hills, the median construction year is 1985. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 14% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 7.4% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.8% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built between 1940 and 1949 97 1.4% -18.5%
Built between 1950 and 1959 432 6.1% 18.4%
Built between 1960 and 1969 560 7.9% 5.5%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,003 14.1% -3.2%
Built between 1980 and 1989 2,980 41.9% 1.8%
Built between 1990 and 1999 465 6.5% -15.2%
Built between 2000 and 2009 998 14% -5.5%
Built between 2010 and 2019 529 7.4% 26.2%
Built in 2020 or later 55 0.8% 52.8%
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.

Kill Devil Hills occupancy rates

Out of the 3,384 occupied housing units in Kill Devil Hills, 73.9% are owner-occupied, while 26.1% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 52.5% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
3,384
1.9% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
884
Owner occupied
2,500
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 884 26.1% 19.8%
Owner occupied 2,500 73.9% -3.2%
Unoccupied housing units
52.5%
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.

Kill Devil Hills housing costs

Housing costs in Kill Devil Hills come to a median of $1,499 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,626.

Median housing costs per month
$1,499/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 Kill Devil Hills
$1,626/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 Kill Devil Hills

Kill Devil Hills education at a glance

About 19.7% of the population in Kill Devil Hills went to high school, while 23.9% pursued college studies. Another 9% earned an associate degree and 30.8% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 13.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 185 3% 122.9%
High school diploma 1,235 19.7% -14.2%
College diploma 1,499 23.9% -1.7%
Associate degree 565 9% -14.9%
Bachelor's degree 1,927 30.8% -1.8%
Graduate degree 851 13.6% 6.2%
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 Kill Devil Hills

How much people earn in Kill Devil Hills

The average annual household income in Kill Devil Hills was $111,010 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +6.1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $89,773, reflecting a +4.7% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Kill Devil Hills
$111,010/year
6.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in Kill Devil Hills
$89,773/year
4.7% year-over-year change

Kill Devil Hills income by age

In Kill Devil Hills, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $118,103. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $100,330 overall. Overall, 91.1% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $118,103 14.0%
45 - 64 $100,330 -3.7%
Over 65 $54,625 2.7%
Above poverty level
6,990
Below poverty level
684
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 6,990 91.1% -1.8%
Below poverty level 684 8.9% 30.3%

Average renter income in Kill Devil Hills

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Kill Devil Hills, their median household income was $57,794 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 33.8%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$57,794
Rent-to-income ratio
33.8%
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 Kill Devil Hills

Workforce and job types in Kill Devil Hills

The job market in Kill Devil Hills is powered by 4,205 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 74.7% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 25.3% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 17.2% run their own businesses, 65.1% are employed by private companies, and 13.1% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
4,205
-4.7% year-over-year change
White collar
3,142
Blue collar
1,063
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 3,142 74.7% -9.8%
Blue collar 1,063 25.3% 14.7%
Employer type
Self employees
17.2%
Private companies
65.1%
Governmental workers
13.1%
Not for profit companies
4.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 725 17.2% -6.0%
Private companies 2,738 65.1% -3.6%
Governmental workers 551 13.1% -9.7%
Not for profit companies 191 4.5% 1.1%
Unemployment rate
7.1%
28.4% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Kill Devil Hills stands at 7.1%, 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 Kill Devil Hills

How people get around in Kill Devil Hills

Commuting methods vary: 84.5% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 0.5% 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 3,444 84.5% -4.2%
Bicycle 45 1.1% -23.7%
Walk 22 0.5% -71.8%
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 Kill Devil Hills by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
27948 12,436 5,586 $86,193 $107,097

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FAQs about Kill Devil Hills demographics 

What is the total population of Kill Devil Hills?

Kill Devil Hills has a total population of 7,761 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 +0.4% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Kill Devil Hills?

The gender ratio in Kill Devil Hills is as follows:
  • 49% males (3,804 residents)
  • 51% females (3,957 residents)

What is the median age in Kill Devil Hills?

The median age in Kill Devil Hills is 48.5.

What is the age distribution of the population in Kill Devil Hills?

The age distribution in Kill Devil Hills is as follows:
  • Under 15: 14.2% (1,106 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.1% (863 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 21% (1,630 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 34.7% (2,691 residents)
  • Over 65: 19% (1,471 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Kill Devil Hills?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Kill Devil Hills is as follows:
  • White: 81.9% (6,354 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1.2% (93 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (19 residents)
  • Asian: 1.3% (98 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 12.5% (967 residents)
  • Other: 3% (230 residents)

What percentage of the population in Kill Devil Hills are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 92% of the population in Kill Devil Hills.

How many housing units are there in Kill Devil Hills?

There are 7,119 housing units in Kill Devil Hills, 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 Kill Devil Hills and what is the average household size?

Kill Devil Hills has a total of 3,384 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Kill Devil Hills?

Kill Devil Hills has a median household income of $89,773, representing a +4.7% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Kill Devil Hills?

The employment rate is 92.9% in Kill Devil Hills, with a workforce of 4,205 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 74.7% (3,142 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 25.3% (1,063 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 17.2% (725 residents)
  • Private companies: 65.1% (2,738 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 13.1% (551 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 4.5% (191 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