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

Total population
21,644
-0.6% year-over-year change
Median household income
$48,578/yr
3.8% year-over-year change
Housing units
11,058
-0.4% year-over-year change

Martin County population

How many people live in Martin County

Martin County is home to 21,644 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 46.6% of Martin County locals are male, and 53.4% are female.

Total population
21,644
-0.6% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
46.6%
10,079
Female
53.4%
11,565
Value Percent YoY change
Male 10,079 46.6% 0.0%
Female 11,565 53.4% -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 Martin County is 47, with the population distributed as follows: about 16.8% are children under 15, then 10.2% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 21.8% of the population, while another 25.7% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 25.6% are 65 or older.

Median age
46.8
Age breakdown
Under 15
16.8%
15 to 24
10.2%
25 to 44
21.8%
45 to 64
25.7%
Over 65
25.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 3,628 16.8% -1.0%
15 to 24 2,204 10.2% -1.0%
25 to 44 4,711 21.8% 0.1%
45 to 64 5,569 25.7% -2.8%
Over 65 5,532 25.6% 1.6%
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 Martin County, 97.3% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.3% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 51.5% of locals are Caucasian, 40.3% are African American and 0.6% have Asian roots. Another 0.1% are Indigenous American, 0.3% are Pacific Islanders, while 1.4% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 5.9% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
97.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.3%
Non-citizens
0.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 21,054 97.3% -0.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 497 2.3% -8.0%
Non-citizens 93 0.4% -10.6%
Racial breakdown
White
51.5%
Black or African American
40.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.1%
Asian
0.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.3%
Two or more races
5.9%
Other
1.4%
Value Percent
White 11,137 51.5%
Black or African American 8,723 40.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native 16 0.1%
Asian 120 0.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 63 0.3%
Two or more races 1,272 5.9%
Other 313 1.4%

Households in Martin County

A peek inside Martin County households

Martin County has 9,502 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 63.6% are families, while the remaining 36.4% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
9,502
1.5% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
3,463
Family households
6,039
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 3,463 36.4% -2.2%
Family households 6,039 63.6% 3.8%
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 Martin County

The housing landscape of Martin County

Martin County's housing consists of 11,058 units, with 67.6% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 22.4% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
11,058
-0.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 7,480 67.6%
1 unit, attached 6 0%
2 units 450 4.1%
3 or 4 units 377 3.4%
5 to 9 units 96 0.9%
10 to 19 units 55 0.5%
20 to 49 units 101 0.9%
50 or more units 9 0.1%
Mobile home 2,473 22.4%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 11 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
60
300.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Martin County

In Martin County, the median construction year is 1975. About 9.5% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 6.3% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 12.8% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 5.6% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.5% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,047 9.5% 4.5%
Built between 1940 and 1949 699 6.3% -1.4%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,451 13.1% -0.3%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,684 15.2% 12.5%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,348 12.2% -15.6%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,255 11.4% 6.9%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,483 13.4% -7.4%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,416 12.8% -7.2%
Built between 2010 and 2019 615 5.6% 17.8%
Built in 2020 or later 60 0.5% 300.0%
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.

Martin County occupancy rates

Out of the 9,502 occupied housing units in Martin County, 66.8% are owner-occupied, while 33.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 14.1% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
9,502
1.5% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
3,156
Owner occupied
6,346
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 3,156 33.2% 7.0%
Owner occupied 6,346 66.8% -1.0%
Unoccupied housing units
14.1%
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.

Martin County housing costs

Housing costs in Martin County come to a median of $817 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $758.

Median housing costs per month
$817/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 Martin County
$758/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 Martin County

Martin County education at a glance

About 45.9% of the population in Martin County went to high school, while 24% pursued college studies. Another 10.6% earned an associate degree and 12% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 4.1% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 584 3.4% -22.4%
High school diploma 7,921 45.9% 2.1%
College diploma 4,147 24% -3.8%
Associate degree 1,832 10.6% -7.0%
Bachelor's degree 2,060 12% 8.4%
Graduate degree 701 4.1% 6.0%
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 Martin County

How much people earn in Martin County

The average annual household income in Martin County was $65,879 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +8.2% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $48,578, reflecting a +3.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Martin County
$65,879/year
8.2% year-over-year change
Median household income in Martin County
$48,578/year
3.8% year-over-year change

Martin County income by age

In Martin County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $47,584. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $67,806 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $48,459, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $39,606 in earnings. Overall, 79.6% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $48,459 12.1%
25 - 44 $47,584 3.0%
45 - 64 $67,806 2.3%
Over 65 $39,606 3.5%
Above poverty level
16,820
Below poverty level
4,298
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 16,820 79.6% -1.1%
Below poverty level 4,298 20.4% 5.2%

Employment in Martin County

Workforce and job types in Martin County

The job market in Martin County is powered by 9,450 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 72.1% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 27.9% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 7.6% run their own businesses, 64.8% are employed by private companies, and 21.4% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
9,450
2.0% year-over-year change
White collar
6,811
Blue collar
2,639
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 6,811 72.1% -1.5%
Blue collar 2,639 27.9% 12.5%
Employer type
Self employees
7.6%
Private companies
64.8%
Governmental workers
21.4%
Not for profit companies
6.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 721 7.6% -13.9%
Private companies 6,124 64.8% 3.9%
Governmental workers 2,018 21.4% 4.6%
Not for profit companies 587 6.2% -2.8%
Unemployment rate
6.1%
-11.7% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Martin County stands at 6.1%, 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 Martin County

How people get around in Martin County

Commuting methods vary: 90% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 3.1% 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 8,330 90% 2.2%
Bus or trolleybus 1 0% -83.3%
Walk 285 3.1% 6.7%
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 Martin County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
27825 100 42 $43,750 $55,662
27840 306 134 $37,857 $58,646
27841 45 20 $21,667 $24,300
27843 876 317 $69,306 $78,506
27846 3,022 1,186 $55,147 $72,308
27857 1,099 570 $61,389 $81,898
27861 120 55 $28,681 $30,635
27871 3,471 1,605 $46,172 $67,019
27892 13,262 5,854 $48,223 $63,585
27812 2,188 1,045 $53,268 $69,082

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FAQs about Martin County demographics 

What is the total population of Martin County?

Martin County has a total population of 21,644 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 -0.6% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Martin County?

The gender ratio in Martin County is as follows:
  • 46.6% males (10,079 residents)
  • 53.4% females (11,565 residents)

What is the median age in Martin County?

The median age in Martin County is 46.8.

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

The age distribution in Martin County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 16.8% (3,628 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 10.2% (2,204 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 21.8% (4,711 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25.7% (5,569 residents)
  • Over 65: 25.6% (5,532 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Martin County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Martin County is as follows:
  • White: 51.5% (11,137 residents)
  • Black or African American: 40.3% (8,723 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.1% (16 residents)
  • Asian: 0.6% (120 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.3% (63 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 5.9% (1,272 residents)
  • Other: 1.4% (313 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 97.3% of the population in Martin County.

How many housing units are there in Martin County?

There are 11,058 housing units in Martin 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 Martin County and what is the average household size?

Martin County has a total of 9,502 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Martin County?

Martin County has a median household income of $48,578, representing a +3.8% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 93.9% in Martin County, with a workforce of 9,450 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 72.1% (6,811 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 27.9% (2,639 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 7.6% (721 residents)
  • Private companies: 64.8% (6,124 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 21.4% (2,018 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 6.2% (587 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