Lincolnton, NC demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
11,783
2.4% year-over-year change
Median household income
$46,320/yr
7.0% year-over-year change
Housing units
5,299
-2.0% year-over-year change

Lincolnton population

How many people live in Lincolnton

Lincolnton is home to 11,783 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 46.8% of Lincolnton locals are male, and 53.2% are female.

Total population
11,783
2.4% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
46.8%
5,519
Female
53.2%
6,264
Value Percent YoY change
Male 5,519 46.8% -1.9%
Female 6,264 53.2% 6.6%
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 Lincolnton is 37, with the population distributed as follows: about 19.4% are children under 15, then 17% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 24.1% of the population, while another 20.2% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 19.3% are 65 or older.

Median age
37.1
Age breakdown
Under 15
19.4%
15 to 24
17%
25 to 44
24.1%
45 to 64
20.2%
Over 65
19.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 2,288 19.4% -0.4%
15 to 24 1,997 17% 12.9%
25 to 44 2,844 24.1% 9.6%
45 to 64 2,377 20.2% -4.5%
Over 65 2,277 19.3% -3.3%
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 Lincolnton, 90.9% of the population are US-born citizens, while 5.2% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 3.8% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 62.6% of locals are Caucasian, 21.3% are African American and 0.1% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 10.7% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
90.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
5.2%
Non-citizens
3.8%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 10,714 90.9% 3.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 617 5.2% -11.0%
Non-citizens 452 3.8% -7.0%
Racial breakdown
White
62.6%
Black or African American
21.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
0.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
10.7%
Other
5.3%
Value Percent
White 7,375 62.6%
Black or African American 2,505 21.3%
Asian 13 0.1%
Two or more races 1,262 10.7%
Other 628 5.3%

Households in Lincolnton

A peek inside Lincolnton households

Lincolnton has 5,023 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 59.2% are families, while the remaining 40.8% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
5,023
-0.5% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
2,047
Family households
2,976
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 2,047 40.8% -5.2%
Family households 2,976 59.2% 3.1%
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 Lincolnton

The housing landscape of Lincolnton

Lincolnton's housing consists of 5,299 units, with 59.8% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 2.1% 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 2.5% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
5,299
-2.0% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 3,166 59.8%
1 unit, attached 110 2.1%
2 units 533 10.1%
3 or 4 units 422 8%
5 to 9 units 436 8.2%
10 to 19 units 238 4.5%
20 to 49 units 132 2.5%
50 or more units 129 2.4%
Mobile home 133 2.5%
Homes built since 2020
117
192.5% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Lincolnton

In Lincolnton, the median construction year is 1973. About 15.8% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 7.2% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 9.3% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 12.2% between 2010 and 2019, and 2.2% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 835 15.8% -7.5%
Built between 1940 and 1949 384 7.2% 49.4%
Built between 1950 and 1959 583 11% -20.4%
Built between 1960 and 1969 703 13.3% -11.7%
Built between 1970 and 1979 422 8% 3.7%
Built between 1980 and 1989 591 11.2% -6.2%
Built between 1990 and 1999 528 10% -10.1%
Built between 2000 and 2009 492 9.3% -24.0%
Built between 2010 and 2019 644 12.2% 57.8%
Built in 2020 or later 117 2.2% 192.5%
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.

Lincolnton occupancy rates

Out of the 5,023 occupied housing units in Lincolnton, 46.2% are owner-occupied, while 53.8% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 5.2% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
5,023
-0.5% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
2,703
Owner occupied
2,320
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 2,703 53.8% -2.1%
Owner occupied 2,320 46.2% 1.4%
Unoccupied housing units
5.2%
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.

Lincolnton housing costs

Housing costs in Lincolnton come to a median of $975 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $965.

Median housing costs per month
$975/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 Lincolnton
$965/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 Lincolnton

Lincolnton education at a glance

About 40.9% of the population in Lincolnton went to high school, while 22.7% pursued college studies. Another 9.7% earned an associate degree and 13.8% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 7.4% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 499 5.5% 2.5%
High school diploma 3,712 40.9% 2.9%
College diploma 2,055 22.7% -17.6%
Associate degree 880 9.7% 15.5%
Bachelor's degree 1,250 13.8% 12.1%
Graduate degree 673 7.4% 56.9%
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 Lincolnton

How much people earn in Lincolnton

The average annual household income in Lincolnton was $69,160 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +15.8% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $46,320, reflecting a +7% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Lincolnton
$69,160/year
15.8% year-over-year change
Median household income in Lincolnton
$46,320/year
7.0% year-over-year change

Lincolnton income by age

In Lincolnton, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $47,256. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $64,741 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $37,561, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $43,167 in earnings. Overall, 76.8% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $37,561 2.7%
25 - 44 $47,256 2.9%
45 - 64 $64,741 51.7%
Over 65 $43,167 -1.3%
Above poverty level
8,632
Below poverty level
2,600
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 8,632 76.8% -2.5%
Below poverty level 2,600 23.2% 26.3%

Average renter income in Lincolnton

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Lincolnton, their median household income was $32,889 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 35.2%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$32,889
Rent-to-income ratio
35.2%
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 Lincolnton

Workforce and job types in Lincolnton

The job market in Lincolnton is powered by 5,245 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 69.3% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 30.7% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 6.9% run their own businesses, 66.8% are employed by private companies, and 15.2% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
5,245
4.5% year-over-year change
White collar
3,633
Blue collar
1,612
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 3,633 69.3% 12.0%
Blue collar 1,612 30.7% -9.2%
Employer type
Self employees
6.9%
Private companies
66.8%
Governmental workers
15.2%
Not for profit companies
11%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 362 6.9% 16.4%
Private companies 3,504 66.8% 4.7%
Governmental workers 800 15.2% -2.2%
Not for profit companies 579 11% 6.6%
Unemployment rate
3.8%
19.0% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Lincolnton stands at 3.8%, 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 Lincolnton

How people get around in Lincolnton

In Lincolnton, the average commute time is 25 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 83.3% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.6% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
25 min
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 4,190 83.3% 1.7%
Walk 133 2.6% -7.0%
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 Lincolnton by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
28092 40,350 15,929 $60,984 $84,199

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FAQs about Lincolnton demographics 

What is the total population of Lincolnton?

Lincolnton has a total population of 11,783 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 +2.4% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Lincolnton?

The gender ratio in Lincolnton is as follows:
  • 46.8% males (5,519 residents)
  • 53.2% females (6,264 residents)

What is the median age in Lincolnton?

The median age in Lincolnton is 37.1.

What is the age distribution of the population in Lincolnton?

The age distribution in Lincolnton is as follows:
  • Under 15: 19.4% (2,288 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 17% (1,997 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 24.1% (2,844 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 20.2% (2,377 residents)
  • Over 65: 19.3% (2,277 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Lincolnton?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Lincolnton is as follows:
  • White: 62.6% (7,375 residents)
  • Black or African American: 21.3% (2,505 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% (0 residents)
  • Asian: 0.1% (13 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 10.7% (1,262 residents)
  • Other: 5.3% (628 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 90.9% of the population in Lincolnton.

How many housing units are there in Lincolnton?

There are 5,299 housing units in Lincolnton, reflecting a -2.0% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Lincolnton has a total of 5,023 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Lincolnton?

Lincolnton has a median household income of $46,320, representing a +7.0% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 96.2% in Lincolnton, with a workforce of 5,245 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 69.3% (3,633 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 30.7% (1,612 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 6.9% (362 residents)
  • Private companies: 66.8% (3,504 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 15.2% (800 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 11% (579 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