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

Total population
92,716
2.6% year-over-year change
Median household income
$80,016/yr
1.9% year-over-year change
Housing units
39,504
2.4% year-over-year change

Lincoln County population

How many people live in Lincoln County

Lincoln County is home to 92,716 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.9% of Lincoln County locals are male, and 50.1% are female.

Total population
92,716
2.6% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.9%
46,293
Female
50.1%
46,423
Value Percent YoY change
Male 46,293 49.9% 3.0%
Female 46,423 50.1% 2.2%
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 Lincoln County is 44, with the population distributed as follows: about 16.8% are children under 15, then 11.2% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 23.2% of the population, while another 29.4% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 19.5% are 65 or older.

Median age
44.4
Age breakdown
Under 15
16.8%
15 to 24
11.2%
25 to 44
23.2%
45 to 64
29.4%
Over 65
19.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 15,539 16.8% 0.9%
15 to 24 10,339 11.2% 5.7%
25 to 44 21,556 23.2% 2.2%
45 to 64 27,220 29.4% 1.1%
Over 65 18,062 19.5% 5.2%
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 Lincoln County, 93.4% of the population are US-born citizens, while 3.6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 3% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 83.1% of locals are Caucasian, 5.9% are African American and 0.8% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 6.6% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
93.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
3.6%
Non-citizens
3%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 86,556 93.4% 2.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 3,388 3.6% 9.3%
Non-citizens 2,772 3% 12.1%
Racial breakdown
White
83.1%
Black or African American
5.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.3%
Asian
0.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
6.6%
Other
3.3%
Value Percent
White 77,009 83.1%
Black or African American 5,472 5.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native 300 0.3%
Asian 733 0.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 18 0%
Two or more races 6,128 6.6%
Other 3,056 3.3%

Households in Lincoln County

A peek inside Lincoln County households

Lincoln County has 36,811 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 73.4% are families, while the remaining 26.6% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
36,811
3.2% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
9,786
Family households
27,025
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 9,786 26.6% 0.3%
Family households 27,025 73.4% 4.2%
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 Lincoln County

The housing landscape of Lincoln County

Lincoln County's housing consists of 39,504 units, with 74.4% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 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 14.9% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
39,504
2.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 29,377 74.4%
1 unit, attached 787 2%
2 units 1,260 3.2%
3 or 4 units 579 1.5%
5 to 9 units 750 1.9%
10 to 19 units 345 0.9%
20 to 49 units 270 0.7%
50 or more units 189 0.5%
Mobile home 5,896 14.9%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 51 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
1,720
97.7% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Lincoln County

In Lincoln County, the median construction year is 1994. About 5.2% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 2.6% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 19.9% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 15% between 2010 and 2019, and 4.4% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 2,056 5.2% -8.9%
Built between 1940 and 1949 1,019 2.6% -0.3%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,815 4.6% -11.4%
Built between 1960 and 1969 2,717 6.9% -5.5%
Built between 1970 and 1979 3,855 9.8% 3.5%
Built between 1980 and 1989 5,208 13.2% -2.4%
Built between 1990 and 1999 7,351 18.6% -2.1%
Built between 2000 and 2009 7,850 19.9% 3.2%
Built between 2010 and 2019 5,913 15% 10.6%
Built in 2020 or later 1,720 4.4% 97.7%
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.

Lincoln County occupancy rates

Out of the 36,811 occupied housing units in Lincoln County, 78.9% are owner-occupied, while 21.1% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 6.8% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
36,811
3.2% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
7,759
Owner occupied
29,052
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 7,759 21.1% 1.0%
Owner occupied 29,052 78.9% 3.8%
Unoccupied housing units
6.8%
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.

Lincoln County housing costs

Housing costs in Lincoln County come to a median of $1,037 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,015.

Median housing costs per month
$1,037/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 Lincoln County
$1,015/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 Lincoln County

Lincoln County education at a glance

About 35.3% of the population in Lincoln County went to high school, while 21.7% pursued college studies. Another 12.5% earned an associate degree and 18.8% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 8% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 2,786 3.8% 12.3%
High school diploma 25,957 35.3% -1.9%
College diploma 15,957 21.7% 0.8%
Associate degree 9,179 12.5% 6.2%
Bachelor's degree 13,813 18.8% 4.4%
Graduate degree 5,893 8% 18.7%
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 Lincoln County

How much people earn in Lincoln County

The average annual household income in Lincoln County was $108,694 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +4.7% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $80,016, reflecting a +1.9% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Lincoln County
$108,694/year
4.7% year-over-year change
Median household income in Lincoln County
$80,016/year
1.9% year-over-year change

Lincoln County income by age

In Lincoln County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $91,968. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $93,534 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $39,654, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $53,633 in earnings. Overall, 88.6% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $39,654 2.1%
25 - 44 $91,968 -1.8%
45 - 64 $93,534 4.4%
Over 65 $53,633 -1.6%
Above poverty level
80,674
Below poverty level
10,325
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 80,674 88.6% 0.3%
Below poverty level 10,325 11.4% 27.6%

Employment in Lincoln County

Workforce and job types in Lincoln County

The job market in Lincoln County is powered by 44,695 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 74.1% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 25.9% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 11% run their own businesses, 68.4% are employed by private companies, and 11.9% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
44,695
1.9% year-over-year change
White collar
33,131
Blue collar
11,564
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 33,131 74.1% 3.1%
Blue collar 11,564 25.9% -1.2%
Employer type
Self employees
11%
Private companies
68.4%
Governmental workers
11.9%
Not for profit companies
8.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 4,899 11% 12.3%
Private companies 30,579 68.4% -0.7%
Governmental workers 5,335 11.9% -0.6%
Not for profit companies 3,882 8.7% 16.5%
Unemployment rate
3.3%
-4.4% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Lincoln County stands at 3.3%, 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 Lincoln County

How people get around in Lincoln County

Commuting methods vary: 83.4% 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.

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 36,343 83.4% -0.3%
Bus or trolleybus 17 0% -65.3%
Motorcycle 111 0.2% -34.3%
Walk 375 0.9% 34.4%
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 Lincoln County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
28080 7,606 2,921 $71,997 $89,516
28092 40,350 15,929 $60,984 $84,199
28164 16,874 6,483 $79,728 $105,433
28168 10,484 4,324 $61,220 $70,486
28650 12,746 4,827 $74,922 $85,604
28006 1,518 596 $51,932 $67,905
28021 13,865 5,570 $63,429 $77,675
28033 3,481 1,403 $78,458 $87,657
28037 28,768 11,485 $111,703 $155,938

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FAQs about Lincoln County demographics 

What is the total population of Lincoln County?

Lincoln County has a total population of 92,716 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 +2.6% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Lincoln County?

The gender ratio in Lincoln County is as follows:
  • 49.9% males (46,293 residents)
  • 50.1% females (46,423 residents)

What is the median age in Lincoln County?

The median age in Lincoln County is 44.4.

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

The age distribution in Lincoln County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 16.8% (15,539 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.2% (10,339 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 23.2% (21,556 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 29.4% (27,220 residents)
  • Over 65: 19.5% (18,062 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Lincoln County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Lincoln County is as follows:
  • White: 83.1% (77,009 residents)
  • Black or African American: 5.9% (5,472 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.3% (300 residents)
  • Asian: 0.8% (733 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (18 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 6.6% (6,128 residents)
  • Other: 3.3% (3,056 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 93.4% of the population in Lincoln County.

How many housing units are there in Lincoln County?

There are 39,504 housing units in Lincoln County, reflecting a +2.4% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Lincoln County has a total of 36,811 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Lincoln County?

Lincoln County has a median household income of $80,016, representing a +1.9% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 96.7% in Lincoln County, with a workforce of 44,695 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 74.1% (33,131 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 25.9% (11,564 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 11% (4,899 residents)
  • Private companies: 68.4% (30,579 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 11.9% (5,335 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 8.7% (3,882 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