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

Total population
54,919
0.0% year-over-year change
Median household income
$45,143/yr
0.8% year-over-year change
Housing units
26,879
0.4% year-over-year change

Lenoir County population

How many people live in Lenoir County

Lenoir County is home to 54,919 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 47.9% of Lenoir County locals are male, and 52.1% are female.

Total population
54,919
0.0% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
47.9%
26,325
Female
52.1%
28,594
Value Percent YoY change
Male 26,325 47.9% 0.5%
Female 28,594 52.1% -0.4%
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 Lenoir County is 42, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.4% are children under 15, then 12.1% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 22.6% of the population, while another 25.5% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 21.4% are 65 or older.

Median age
41.9
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.4%
15 to 24
12.1%
25 to 44
22.6%
45 to 64
25.5%
Over 65
21.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 10,083 18.4% -0.8%
15 to 24 6,649 12.1% 0.7%
25 to 44 12,407 22.6% 1.5%
45 to 64 13,999 25.5% -2.5%
Over 65 11,781 21.4% 1.8%
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 Lenoir County, 94.8% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.2% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 2.9% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 49.5% of locals are Caucasian, 39.3% are African American and 0.8% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 5.5% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
94.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.2%
Non-citizens
2.9%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 52,078 94.8% -0.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 1,232 2.2% 6.4%
Non-citizens 1,609 2.9% 6.3%
Racial breakdown
White
49.5%
Black or African American
39.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
0.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
5.5%
Other
4.7%
Value Percent
White 27,167 49.5%
Black or African American 21,560 39.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native 139 0.2%
Asian 425 0.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 29 0%
Two or more races 3,006 5.5%
Other 2,593 4.7%

Households in Lenoir County

A peek inside Lenoir County households

Lenoir County has 23,351 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 60.8% are families, while the remaining 39.2% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
23,351
1.8% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
9,160
Family households
14,191
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 9,160 39.2% -1.9%
Family households 14,191 60.8% 4.4%
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 Lenoir County

The housing landscape of Lenoir County

Lenoir County's housing consists of 26,879 units, with 60.7% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1.2% 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 21.3% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
26,879
0.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 16,306 60.7%
1 unit, attached 330 1.2%
2 units 1,168 4.4%
3 or 4 units 1,052 3.9%
5 to 9 units 1,054 3.9%
10 to 19 units 428 1.6%
20 to 49 units 253 0.9%
50 or more units 549 2%
Mobile home 5,732 21.3%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 7 0%
Homes built since 2020
189
551.7% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Lenoir County

In Lenoir County, the median construction year is 1978. About 7.4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5.3% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 9.4% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 5.4% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.7% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,985 7.4% 20.8%
Built between 1940 and 1949 1,425 5.3% -7.0%
Built between 1950 and 1959 2,886 10.7% -5.4%
Built between 1960 and 1969 3,418 12.7% 1.3%
Built between 1970 and 1979 4,884 18.2% -4.5%
Built between 1980 and 1989 3,642 13.6% -2.2%
Built between 1990 and 1999 4,457 16.6% -1.5%
Built between 2000 and 2009 2,535 9.4% 1.6%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,458 5.4% 13.9%
Built in 2020 or later 189 0.7% 551.7%
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.

Lenoir County occupancy rates

Out of the 23,351 occupied housing units in Lenoir County, 59.2% are owner-occupied, while 40.8% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 13.1% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
23,351
1.8% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
9,525
Owner occupied
13,826
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 9,525 40.8% 2.0%
Owner occupied 13,826 59.2% 1.8%
Unoccupied housing units
13.1%
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.

Lenoir County housing costs

Housing costs in Lenoir County come to a median of $815 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $861.

Median housing costs per month
$815/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 Lenoir County
$861/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 Lenoir County

Lenoir County education at a glance

About 45.1% of the population in Lenoir County went to high school, while 21.6% pursued college studies. Another 12.5% earned an associate degree and 10% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 5.3% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 2,297 5.4% 3.5%
High school diploma 19,196 45.1% -1.4%
College diploma 9,192 21.6% -3.8%
Associate degree 5,334 12.5% 9.3%
Bachelor's degree 4,251 10% 0.8%
Graduate degree 2,256 5.3% 6.8%
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 Lenoir County

How much people earn in Lenoir County

The average annual household income in Lenoir County was $65,291 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +3.2% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $45,143, reflecting a +0.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Lenoir County
$65,291/year
3.2% year-over-year change
Median household income in Lenoir County
$45,143/year
0.8% year-over-year change

Lenoir County income by age

In Lenoir County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $47,701. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $50,807 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $48,730, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $39,652 in earnings. Overall, 78.5% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $48,730 5.0%
25 - 44 $47,701 4.5%
45 - 64 $50,807 -6.8%
Over 65 $39,652 -0.0%
Above poverty level
41,850
Below poverty level
11,459
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 41,850 78.5% 0.8%
Below poverty level 11,459 21.5% -2.4%

Employment in Lenoir County

Workforce and job types in Lenoir County

The job market in Lenoir County is powered by 22,494 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 67.6% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 32.4% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9.4% run their own businesses, 66.5% are employed by private companies, and 16.5% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
22,494
-0.7% year-over-year change
White collar
15,205
Blue collar
7,289
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 15,205 67.6% 1.7%
Blue collar 7,289 32.4% -5.2%
Employer type
Self employees
9.4%
Private companies
66.5%
Governmental workers
16.5%
Not for profit companies
7.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 2,111 9.4% 0.7%
Private companies 14,949 66.5% 1.8%
Governmental workers 3,716 16.5% -7.8%
Not for profit companies 1,718 7.6% -6.3%
Unemployment rate
9.0%
26.3% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Lenoir County stands at 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 Lenoir County

How people get around in Lenoir County

In Lenoir County, the average commute time is 24 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 94.6% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 0.9% 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
0.4% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 20,859 94.6% -1.0%
Taxicab 7 0% -84.4%
Bus or trolleybus 136 0.6% 24.8%
Motorcycle 40 0.2% -4.8%
Bicycle 13 0.1% N/A
Walk 207 0.9% -21.0%
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 Lenoir County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
28578 4,219 1,428 $69,900 $79,128
28501 17,642 7,894 $35,118 $56,875
28504 20,407 8,598 $53,583 $72,615
28525 3,613 1,410 $59,191 $72,759
28530 6,484 2,997 $37,361 $56,706
28538 1,989 864 $56,953 $62,006
28551 14,078 5,478 $49,092 $64,355
28572 6,658 2,560 $55,660 $73,424

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FAQs about Lenoir County demographics 

What is the total population of Lenoir County?

Lenoir County has a total population of 54,919 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 0.0% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Lenoir County?

The gender ratio in Lenoir County is as follows:
  • 47.9% males (26,325 residents)
  • 52.1% females (28,594 residents)

What is the median age in Lenoir County?

The median age in Lenoir County is 41.9.

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

The age distribution in Lenoir County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.4% (10,083 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.1% (6,649 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 22.6% (12,407 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25.5% (13,999 residents)
  • Over 65: 21.4% (11,781 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Lenoir County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Lenoir County is as follows:
  • White: 49.5% (27,167 residents)
  • Black or African American: 39.3% (21,560 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (139 residents)
  • Asian: 0.8% (425 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (29 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 5.5% (3,006 residents)
  • Other: 4.7% (2,593 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 94.8% of the population in Lenoir County.

How many housing units are there in Lenoir County?

There are 26,879 housing units in Lenoir County, 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 Lenoir County and what is the average household size?

Lenoir County has a total of 23,351 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Lenoir County?

Lenoir County has a median household income of $45,143, representing a +0.8% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 91% in Lenoir County, with a workforce of 22,494 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 67.6% (15,205 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 32.4% (7,289 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9.4% (2,111 residents)
  • Private companies: 66.5% (14,949 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 16.5% (3,716 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7.6% (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