Knightdale, NC demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
20,214
3.5% year-over-year change
Median household income
$103,220/yr
12.6% year-over-year change
Housing units
8,025
1.7% year-over-year change

Knightdale population

How many people live in Knightdale

Knightdale is home to 20,214 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 47.5% of Knightdale locals are male, and 52.5% are female.

Total population
20,214
3.5% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
47.5%
9,598
Female
52.5%
10,616
Value Percent YoY change
Male 9,598 47.5% 3.9%
Female 10,616 52.5% 3.1%
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 Knightdale is 34, with the population distributed as follows: about 23.5% are children under 15, then 11.3% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 31.6% of the population, while another 24.1% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 9.5% are 65 or older.

Median age
33.6
Age breakdown
Under 15
23.5%
15 to 24
11.3%
25 to 44
31.6%
45 to 64
24.1%
Over 65
9.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 4,751 23.5% 3.4%
15 to 24 2,281 11.3% 21.1%
25 to 44 6,381 31.6% -2.7%
45 to 64 4,876 24.1% 6.5%
Over 65 1,925 9.5% 0.5%
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 Knightdale, 85.5% of the population are US-born citizens, while 10.6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 3.9% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 34.7% of locals are Caucasian, 44.6% are African American and 5% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 11.8% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
85.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
10.6%
Non-citizens
3.9%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 17,286 85.5% 3.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 2,140 10.6% -0.1%
Non-citizens 788 3.9% 17.4%
Racial breakdown
White
34.7%
Black or African American
44.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.3%
Asian
5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
11.8%
Other
3.6%
Value Percent
White 7,018 34.7%
Black or African American 9,013 44.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 62 0.3%
Asian 1,019 5%
Two or more races 2,384 11.8%
Other 718 3.6%

Households in Knightdale

A peek inside Knightdale households

Knightdale has 7,594 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 71.1% are families, while the remaining 28.9% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
7,594
0.8% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
2,193
Family households
5,401
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 2,193 28.9% 2.8%
Family households 5,401 71.1% 0.1%
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 Knightdale

The housing landscape of Knightdale

Knightdale's housing consists of 8,025 units, with 63.9% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 11.3% 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 1.3% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
8,025
1.7% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 5,125 63.9%
1 unit, attached 904 11.3%
2 units 52 0.6%
3 or 4 units 122 1.5%
5 to 9 units 306 3.8%
10 to 19 units 311 3.9%
20 to 49 units 1,017 12.7%
50 or more units 81 1%
Mobile home 107 1.3%
Homes built since 2020
469
216.9% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Knightdale

In Knightdale, the median construction year is 2008. About 1.1% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 0.4% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 28.8% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 39.5% between 2010 and 2019, and 5.8% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 90 1.1% 1.1%
Built between 1940 and 1949 34 0.4% -10.5%
Built between 1950 and 1959 59 0.7% -15.7%
Built between 1960 and 1969 70 0.9% -48.1%
Built between 1970 and 1979 237 3% -19.4%
Built between 1980 and 1989 570 7.1% -10.7%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,017 12.7% -24.4%
Built between 2000 and 2009 2,307 28.8% -3.5%
Built between 2010 and 2019 3,172 39.5% 15.8%
Built in 2020 or later 469 5.8% 216.9%
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.

Knightdale occupancy rates

Out of the 7,594 occupied housing units in Knightdale, 64.7% are owner-occupied, while 35.3% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 5.4% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
7,594
0.8% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
2,683
Owner occupied
4,911
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 2,683 35.3% -0.1%
Owner occupied 4,911 64.7% 1.4%
Unoccupied housing units
5.4%
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.

Knightdale housing costs

Housing costs in Knightdale come to a median of $1,696 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,674.

Median housing costs per month
$1,696/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 Knightdale
$1,674/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 Knightdale

Knightdale education at a glance

About 20.7% of the population in Knightdale went to high school, while 21.4% pursued college studies. Another 11.1% earned an associate degree and 26.6% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 18.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 233 1.6% -20.8%
High school diploma 3,004 20.7% -9.5%
College diploma 3,110 21.4% 0.0%
Associate degree 1,614 11.1% -0.9%
Bachelor's degree 3,872 26.6% 3.5%
Graduate degree 2,709 18.6% 30.7%
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 Knightdale

How much people earn in Knightdale

The average annual household income in Knightdale was $117,876 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +11.6% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $103,220, reflecting a +12.6% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Knightdale
$117,876/year
11.6% year-over-year change
Median household income in Knightdale
$103,220/year
12.6% year-over-year change

Knightdale income by age

In Knightdale, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $109,823. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $115,108 overall. Overall, 94.6% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $109,823 1.4%
45 - 64 $115,108 32.5%
Over 65 $56,207 -6.4%
Above poverty level
18,648
Below poverty level
1,064
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 18,648 94.6% 3.3%
Below poverty level 1,064 5.4% -5.8%

Average renter income in Knightdale

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Knightdale, their median household income was $57,183 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 35.1%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$57,183
Rent-to-income ratio
35.1%
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 Knightdale

Workforce and job types in Knightdale

The job market in Knightdale is powered by 11,517 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 89% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 11% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 6.2% run their own businesses, 66.1% are employed by private companies, and 17.7% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
11,517
6.8% year-over-year change
White collar
10,248
Blue collar
1,269
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 10,248 89% 10.7%
Blue collar 1,269 11% -16.9%
Employer type
Self employees
6.2%
Private companies
66.1%
Governmental workers
17.7%
Not for profit companies
10%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 716 6.2% 7.2%
Private companies 7,611 66.1% 4.4%
Governmental workers 2,037 17.7% 5.0%
Not for profit companies 1,153 10% 30.4%
Unemployment rate
3.4%
-27.7% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Knightdale stands at 3.4%, 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 Knightdale

How people get around in Knightdale

In Knightdale, the average commute time is 24 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 76.8% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
24 min
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 8,733 76.8% 2.1%
Taxicab 165 1.4% 200.0%
Bicycle 58 0.5% N/A
Walk 117 1% 134.0%
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 Knightdale by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
27545 34,163 12,089 $91,527 $112,755

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FAQs about Knightdale demographics 

What is the total population of Knightdale?

Knightdale has a total population of 20,214 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 +3.5% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Knightdale?

The gender ratio in Knightdale is as follows:
  • 47.5% males (9,598 residents)
  • 52.5% females (10,616 residents)

What is the median age in Knightdale?

The median age in Knightdale is 33.6.

What is the age distribution of the population in Knightdale?

The age distribution in Knightdale is as follows:
  • Under 15: 23.5% (4,751 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.3% (2,281 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 31.6% (6,381 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 24.1% (4,876 residents)
  • Over 65: 9.5% (1,925 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Knightdale?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Knightdale is as follows:
  • White: 34.7% (7,018 residents)
  • Black or African American: 44.6% (9,013 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.3% (62 residents)
  • Asian: 5% (1,019 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 11.8% (2,384 residents)
  • Other: 3.6% (718 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 85.5% of the population in Knightdale.

How many housing units are there in Knightdale?

There are 8,025 housing units in Knightdale, reflecting a +1.7% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Knightdale has a total of 7,594 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Knightdale?

Knightdale has a median household income of $103,220, representing a +12.6% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 96.6% in Knightdale, with a workforce of 11,517 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 89% (10,248 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 11% (1,269 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 6.2% (716 residents)
  • Private companies: 66.1% (7,611 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 17.7% (2,037 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 10% (1,153 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