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

Total population
1,154,681
2.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$87,005/yr
3.9% year-over-year change
Housing units
503,071
2.3% year-over-year change

Mecklenburg County population

How many people live in Mecklenburg County

Mecklenburg County is home to 1,154,681 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.3% of Mecklenburg County locals are male, and 51.7% are female.

Total population
1,154,681
2.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.3%
558,140
Female
51.7%
596,541
Value Percent YoY change
Male 558,140 48.3% 2.1%
Female 596,541 51.7% 2.1%
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 Mecklenburg County is 36, with the population distributed as follows: about 19% are children under 15, then 13% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 32% of the population, while another 24% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 11.9% are 65 or older.

Median age
35.5
Age breakdown
Under 15
19%
15 to 24
13%
25 to 44
32%
45 to 64
24%
Over 65
11.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 219,021 19% 1.0%
15 to 24 150,686 13% 2.4%
25 to 44 369,503 32% 2.6%
45 to 64 277,566 24% 1.1%
Over 65 137,905 11.9% 4.2%
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 Mecklenburg County, 81% of the population are US-born citizens, while 8.3% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 10.7% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 44.9% of locals are Caucasian, 30% are African American and 6.4% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 9.7% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
81%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
8.3%
Non-citizens
10.7%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 935,287 81% 1.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 96,108 8.3% 2.0%
Non-citizens 123,286 10.7% 7.0%
Racial breakdown
White
44.9%
Black or African American
30%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.5%
Asian
6.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
9.7%
Other
8.4%
Value Percent
White 518,746 44.9%
Black or African American 346,988 30%
American Indian and Alaska Native 5,349 0.5%
Asian 73,448 6.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 433 0%
Two or more races 112,190 9.7%
Other 97,527 8.4%

Households in Mecklenburg County

A peek inside Mecklenburg County households

Mecklenburg County has 466,527 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 58.1% are families, while the remaining 41.9% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
466,527
2.4% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
195,541
Family households
270,986
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 195,541 41.9% 4.1%
Family households 270,986 58.1% 1.3%
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 Mecklenburg County

The housing landscape of Mecklenburg County

Mecklenburg County's housing consists of 503,071 units, with 54.8% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 8.8% 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 1.4% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
503,071
2.3% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 275,566 54.8%
1 unit, attached 44,413 8.8%
2 units 4,339 0.9%
3 or 4 units 12,564 2.5%
5 to 9 units 28,338 5.6%
10 to 19 units 47,685 9.5%
20 to 49 units 31,451 6.2%
50 or more units 51,315 10.2%
Mobile home 7,243 1.4%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 157 0%
Homes built since 2020
19,346
90.4% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Mecklenburg County

In Mecklenburg County, the median construction year is 1997. About 2.2% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 2.1% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 22.1% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 19.4% between 2010 and 2019, and 3.8% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 11,113 2.2% -0.1%
Built between 1940 and 1949 10,685 2.1% 3.0%
Built between 1950 and 1959 23,716 4.7% -4.8%
Built between 1960 and 1969 34,165 6.8% -2.1%
Built between 1970 and 1979 44,983 8.9% -3.2%
Built between 1980 and 1989 65,535 13% -2.4%
Built between 1990 and 1999 84,898 16.9% -3.0%
Built between 2000 and 2009 111,024 22.1% 2.3%
Built between 2010 and 2019 97,606 19.4% 7.8%
Built in 2020 or later 19,346 3.8% 90.4%
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.

Mecklenburg County occupancy rates

Out of the 466,527 occupied housing units in Mecklenburg County, 55.1% are owner-occupied, while 44.9% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 7.3% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
466,527
2.4% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
209,360
Owner occupied
257,167
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 209,360 44.9% 3.3%
Owner occupied 257,167 55.1% 1.7%
Unoccupied housing units
7.3%
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.

Mecklenburg County housing costs

Housing costs in Mecklenburg County come to a median of $1,597 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,627.

Median housing costs per month
$1,597/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 Mecklenburg County
$1,627/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 Mecklenburg County

Mecklenburg County education at a glance

About 23.2% of the population in Mecklenburg County went to high school, while 18.7% pursued college studies. Another 7.9% earned an associate degree and 29.8% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 15.9% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 41,018 4.6% 4.2%
High school diploma 206,267 23.2% 3.5%
College diploma 166,907 18.7% -1.6%
Associate degree 70,237 7.9% 0.9%
Bachelor's degree 265,083 29.8% 2.8%
Graduate degree 141,436 15.9% 5.5%
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 Mecklenburg County

How much people earn in Mecklenburg County

The average annual household income in Mecklenburg County was $128,782 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 $87,005, reflecting a +3.9% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Mecklenburg County
$128,782/year
3.2% year-over-year change
Median household income in Mecklenburg County
$87,005/year
3.9% year-over-year change

Mecklenburg County income by age

In Mecklenburg County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $93,123. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $102,058 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $49,640, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $60,344 in earnings. Overall, 89.7% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $49,640 -1.5%
25 - 44 $93,123 4.6%
45 - 64 $102,058 4.9%
Over 65 $60,344 3.1%
Above poverty level
1,005,757
Below poverty level
115,827
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 1,005,757 89.7% 2.0%
Below poverty level 115,827 10.3% 1.5%

Employment in Mecklenburg County

Workforce and job types in Mecklenburg County

The job market in Mecklenburg County is powered by 632,115 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 81.8% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 18.2% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9.8% run their own businesses, 74.5% are employed by private companies, and 8.3% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
632,115
2.6% year-over-year change
White collar
516,949
Blue collar
115,166
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 516,949 81.8% 2.3%
Blue collar 115,166 18.2% 3.7%
Employer type
Self employees
9.8%
Private companies
74.5%
Governmental workers
8.3%
Not for profit companies
7.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 62,031 9.8% 2.5%
Private companies 471,209 74.5% 2.1%
Governmental workers 52,598 8.3% 3.7%
Not for profit companies 46,277 7.3% 5.9%
Unemployment rate
4.3%
5.0% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Mecklenburg County stands at 4.3%, 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 Mecklenburg County

How people get around in Mecklenburg County

In Mecklenburg County, the average commute time is 25 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 66.6% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.6% 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
-1.2% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 412,565 66.6% -1.8%
Taxicab 1,430 0.2% 19.2%
Bus or trolleybus 6,386 1% -12.0%
Subway or elevated 615 0.1% N/A
Railroad 111 0% 12.1%
Ferryboat 86 0% -25.9%
Motorcycle 274 0% 13.7%
Bicycle 1,164 0.2% 8.2%
Walk 10,236 1.6% 5.1%
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 Mecklenburg County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
28078 71,657 27,774 $120,831 $155,371
28105 46,817 17,285 $108,190 $132,217
28134 13,245 5,055 $85,681 $107,518
28202 17,653 9,980 $105,889 $130,913
28203 18,823 11,038 $104,696 $157,058
28204 9,314 5,582 $92,054 $143,284
28205 51,806 23,357 $75,622 $115,812
28206 15,375 7,126 $61,818 $81,365
28031 31,733 13,425 $113,368 $181,873
28036 22,963 7,847 $156,496 $225,268

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FAQs about Mecklenburg County demographics 

What is the total population of Mecklenburg County?

Mecklenburg County has a total population of 1,154,681 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 +2.1% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Mecklenburg County?

The gender ratio in Mecklenburg County is as follows:
  • 48.3% males (558,140 residents)
  • 51.7% females (596,541 residents)

What is the median age in Mecklenburg County?

The median age in Mecklenburg County is 35.5.

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

The age distribution in Mecklenburg County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 19% (219,021 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 13% (150,686 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 32% (369,503 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 24% (277,566 residents)
  • Over 65: 11.9% (137,905 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Mecklenburg County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Mecklenburg County is as follows:
  • White: 44.9% (518,746 residents)
  • Black or African American: 30% (346,988 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.5% (5,349 residents)
  • Asian: 6.4% (73,448 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (433 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 9.7% (112,190 residents)
  • Other: 8.4% (97,527 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 81% of the population in Mecklenburg County.

How many housing units are there in Mecklenburg County?

There are 503,071 housing units in Mecklenburg County, reflecting a +2.3% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Mecklenburg County has a total of 466,527 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Mecklenburg County?

Mecklenburg County has a median household income of $87,005, representing a +3.9% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 95.7% in Mecklenburg County, with a workforce of 632,115 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 81.8% (516,949 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 18.2% (115,166 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9.8% (62,031 residents)
  • Private companies: 74.5% (471,209 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 8.3% (52,598 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7.3% (46,277 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