Kinston, NC demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
19,505
-0.4% year-over-year change
Median household income
$36,878/yr
4.6% year-over-year change
Housing units
10,599
-0.5% year-over-year change

Kinston population

How many people live in Kinston

Kinston is home to 19,505 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 46% of Kinston locals are male, and 54% are female.

Total population
19,505
-0.4% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
46%
8,963
Female
54%
10,542
Value Percent YoY change
Male 8,963 46% -2.1%
Female 10,542 54% 1.1%
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 Kinston is 43, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.3% are children under 15, then 12.3% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 21% of the population, while another 23.8% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 24.5% are 65 or older.

Median age
42.9
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.3%
15 to 24
12.3%
25 to 44
21%
45 to 64
23.8%
Over 65
24.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 3,566 18.3% -7.1%
15 to 24 2,405 12.3% 2.9%
25 to 44 4,106 21% 0.5%
45 to 64 4,651 23.8% 1.2%
Over 65 4,777 24.5% 1.2%
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 Kinston, 95.3% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.9% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.8% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 23.4% of locals are Caucasian, 67.6% are African American and 1.5% have Asian roots. Another 0.2% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 1.7% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 5.6% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
95.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.9%
Non-citizens
1.8%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 18,591 95.3% -0.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 563 2.9% 22.9%
Non-citizens 351 1.8% -3.3%
Racial breakdown
White
23.4%
Black or African American
67.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
1.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
5.6%
Other
1.7%
Value Percent
White 4,564 23.4%
Black or African American 13,186 67.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 34 0.2%
Asian 286 1.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 18 0.1%
Two or more races 1,087 5.6%
Other 330 1.7%

Households in Kinston

A peek inside Kinston households

Kinston has 8,891 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 51.1% are families, while the remaining 48.9% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
8,891
0.7% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
4,351
Family households
4,540
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 4,351 48.9% -5.6%
Family households 4,540 51.1% 7.6%
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 Kinston

The housing landscape of Kinston

Kinston's housing consists of 10,599 units, with 62.9% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 2.5% 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 2.2% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
10,599
-0.5% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 6,665 62.9%
1 unit, attached 264 2.5%
2 units 582 5.5%
3 or 4 units 842 7.9%
5 to 9 units 943 8.9%
10 to 19 units 391 3.7%
20 to 49 units 140 1.3%
50 or more units 536 5.1%
Mobile home 236 2.2%
Homes built since 2020
60
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Kinston

In Kinston, the median construction year is 1966. About 11.8% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 7.3% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 2.9% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 3% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.6% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,254 11.8% 26.4%
Built between 1940 and 1949 778 7.3% -14.8%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,986 18.7% 0.6%
Built between 1960 and 1969 2,071 19.5% 9.5%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,854 17.5% -3.7%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,004 9.5% -18.8%
Built between 1990 and 1999 968 9.1% -0.4%
Built between 2000 and 2009 303 2.9% -12.7%
Built between 2010 and 2019 321 3% -19.6%
Built in 2020 or later 60 0.6% N/A
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.

Kinston occupancy rates

Out of the 8,891 occupied housing units in Kinston, 42.6% are owner-occupied, while 57.4% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 16.1% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
8,891
0.7% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
5,108
Owner occupied
3,783
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 5,108 57.4% 0.1%
Owner occupied 3,783 42.6% 1.6%
Unoccupied housing units
16.1%
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.

Kinston housing costs

Housing costs in Kinston come to a median of $834 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $867.

Median housing costs per month
$834/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 Kinston
$867/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 Kinston

Kinston education at a glance

About 48.2% of the population in Kinston went to high school, while 22.7% pursued college studies. Another 10.5% earned an associate degree and 8.7% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 6.1% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 579 3.8% -17.9%
High school diploma 7,355 48.2% -1.6%
College diploma 3,461 22.7% 7.7%
Associate degree 1,596 10.5% 19.9%
Bachelor's degree 1,334 8.7% 2.0%
Graduate degree 931 6.1% 2.6%
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 Kinston

How much people earn in Kinston

The average annual household income in Kinston was $56,602 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +6.4% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $36,878, reflecting a +4.6% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Kinston
$56,602/year
6.4% year-over-year change
Median household income in Kinston
$36,878/year
4.6% year-over-year change

Kinston income by age

In Kinston, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $35,568. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $37,784 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $49,421, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $35,575 in earnings. Overall, 72.4% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $49,421 6.9%
25 - 44 $35,568 2.4%
45 - 64 $37,784 1.0%
Over 65 $35,575 7.1%
Above poverty level
13,549
Below poverty level
5,162
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 13,549 72.4% 1.3%
Below poverty level 5,162 27.6% -2.4%

Average renter income in Kinston

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Kinston, their median household income was $30,511 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 34.1%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$30,511
Rent-to-income ratio
34.1%
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 Kinston

Workforce and job types in Kinston

The job market in Kinston is powered by 6,781 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 71.6% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 28.4% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9% run their own businesses, 64.4% are employed by private companies, and 18.2% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
6,781
0.2% year-over-year change
White collar
4,856
Blue collar
1,925
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 4,856 71.6% 3.2%
Blue collar 1,925 28.4% -6.6%
Employer type
Self employees
9%
Private companies
64.4%
Governmental workers
18.2%
Not for profit companies
8.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 607 9% -11.6%
Private companies 4,369 64.4% 0.5%
Governmental workers 1,236 18.2% 1.2%
Not for profit companies 569 8.4% 12.0%
Unemployment rate
16.2%
26.6% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Kinston stands at 16.2%, 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 Kinston

How people get around in Kinston

Commuting methods vary: 94.8% 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 6,149 94.8% 1.8%
Taxicab 7 0.1% -84.4%
Bus or trolleybus 29 0.4% 141.7%
Walk 89 1.4% -54.4%
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 Kinston by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
28501 17,642 7,894 $35,118 $56,875
28504 20,407 8,598 $53,583 $72,615

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FAQs about Kinston demographics 

What is the total population of Kinston?

Kinston has a total population of 19,505 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 Kinston?

The gender ratio in Kinston is as follows:
  • 46% males (8,963 residents)
  • 54% females (10,542 residents)

What is the median age in Kinston?

The median age in Kinston is 42.9.

What is the age distribution of the population in Kinston?

The age distribution in Kinston is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.3% (3,566 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.3% (2,405 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 21% (4,106 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 23.8% (4,651 residents)
  • Over 65: 24.5% (4,777 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Kinston?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Kinston is as follows:
  • White: 23.4% (4,564 residents)
  • Black or African American: 67.6% (13,186 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (34 residents)
  • Asian: 1.5% (286 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (18 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 5.6% (1,087 residents)
  • Other: 1.7% (330 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 95.3% of the population in Kinston.

How many housing units are there in Kinston?

There are 10,599 housing units in Kinston, reflecting a -0.5% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Kinston has a total of 8,891 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Kinston?

Kinston has a median household income of $36,878, representing a +4.6% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 83.8% in Kinston, with a workforce of 6,781 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 71.6% (4,856 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 28.4% (1,925 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9% (607 residents)
  • Private companies: 64.4% (4,369 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 18.2% (1,236 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 8.4% (569 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