Pelham, NC demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
3,831
5.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$39,044/yr
10.1% year-over-year change
Housing units
1,556
-2.2% year-over-year change

Pelham population

How many people live in Pelham

Pelham is home to 3,831 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 51.9% of Pelham locals are male, and 48.1% are female.

Total population
3,831
5.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
51.9%
1,987
Female
48.1%
1,844
Value Percent YoY change
Male 1,987 51.9% 6.3%
Female 1,844 48.1% 3.9%
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 Pelham is 37, with the population distributed as follows: about 23.3% are children under 15, then 13.5% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 19.8% of the population, while another 25.6% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 17.8% are 65 or older.

Median age
36.7
Age breakdown
Under 15
23.3%
15 to 24
13.5%
25 to 44
19.8%
45 to 64
25.6%
Over 65
17.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 893 23.3% 4.1%
15 to 24 516 13.5% 0.8%
25 to 44 758 19.8% 30.2%
45 to 64 982 25.6% 1.3%
Over 65 681 17.8% -5.8%
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

At the same time, 6.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 58.8% of locals are Caucasian, 25.8% are African American and 0.4% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 12.9% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
93.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
0%
Non-citizens
6.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 3,583 93.6% 6.9%
Non-citizens 247 6.4% -15.4%
Racial breakdown
White
58.8%
Black or African American
25.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
0.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
12.9%
Other
2.1%
Value Percent
White 2,253 58.8%
Black or African American 990 25.8%
Asian 15 0.4%
Two or more races 494 12.9%
Other 79 2.1%

Households in Pelham

A peek inside Pelham households

Pelham has 1,363 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 67.7% are families, while the remaining 32.3% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
1,363
1.9% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
440
Family households
923
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 440 32.3% -3.5%
Family households 923 67.7% 4.8%
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 Pelham

The housing landscape of Pelham

Pelham's housing consists of 1,556 units, with 63.6% 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 35% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
1,556
-2.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 989 63.6%
10 to 19 units 23 1.5%
Mobile home 544 35%
Homes built since 2020
10
42.9% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Pelham

In Pelham, the median construction year is 1983. About 4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 0.7% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 6.9% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 3.4% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.6% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 63 4% -32.3%
Built between 1940 and 1949 11 0.7% 37.5%
Built between 1950 and 1959 133 8.5% 82.2%
Built between 1960 and 1969 126 8.1% -30.4%
Built between 1970 and 1979 350 22.5% 5.7%
Built between 1980 and 1989 346 22.2% 4.2%
Built between 1990 and 1999 359 23% -4.3%
Built between 2000 and 2009 107 6.9% -31.0%
Built between 2010 and 2019 53 3.4% 43.2%
Built in 2020 or later 10 0.6% 42.9%
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.

Pelham occupancy rates

Out of the 1,363 occupied housing units in Pelham, 66.2% are owner-occupied, while 33.8% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 12.4% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
1,363
1.9% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
461
Owner occupied
902
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 461 33.8% 5.5%
Owner occupied 902 66.2% 0.2%
Unoccupied housing units
12.4%
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.

Pelham housing costs

Housing costs in Pelham come to a median of $590 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $586.

Median housing costs per month
$590/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 Pelham
$586/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 Pelham

Pelham education at a glance

About 46.6% of the population in Pelham went to high school, while 30.6% pursued college studies. Another 8.9% earned an associate degree and 5.8% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 3.3% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 140 4.8% -17.6%
High school diploma 1,355 46.6% 1.6%
College diploma 889 30.6% 9.1%
Associate degree 259 8.9% 32.8%
Bachelor's degree 169 5.8% 27.1%
Graduate degree 97 3.3% 21.2%
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 Pelham

How much people earn in Pelham

The average annual household income in Pelham was $50,409 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +6.5% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $39,044, reflecting a +10.1% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Pelham
$50,409/year
6.5% year-over-year change
Median household income in Pelham
$39,044/year
10.1% year-over-year change

Pelham income by age

In Pelham, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $35,388. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $48,207 overall. Overall, 69.5% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $35,388 0.5%
45 - 64 $48,207 9.3%
Over 65 $22,466 -11.1%
Above poverty level
2,481
Below poverty level
1,089
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 2,481 69.5% 2.9%
Below poverty level 1,089 30.5% 12.5%

Employment in Pelham

Workforce and job types in Pelham

68% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 32% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 10.7% run their own businesses, 65.1% are employed by private companies, and 9.4% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

White collar
1,059
Blue collar
498
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 1,059 68% 12.3%
Blue collar 498 32% 26.1%
Employer type
Self employees
10.7%
Private companies
65.1%
Governmental workers
9.4%
Not for profit companies
14.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 167 10.7% 77.7%
Private companies 1,014 65.1% 6.7%
Governmental workers 147 9.4% 50.0%
Not for profit companies 229 14.7% 16.8%

Transportation in Pelham

How people get around in Pelham

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 1,228 100% 24.8%
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 Pelham by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
27311 3,842 1,367 $39,044 $50,517

Explore more communities

FAQs about Pelham demographics 

What is the total population of Pelham?

Pelham has a total population of 3,831 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 +5.1% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Pelham?

The gender ratio in Pelham is as follows:
  • 51.9% males (1,987 residents)
  • 48.1% females (1,844 residents)

What is the median age in Pelham?

The median age in Pelham is 36.7.

What is the age distribution of the population in Pelham?

The age distribution in Pelham is as follows:
  • Under 15: 23.3% (893 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 13.5% (516 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 19.8% (758 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25.6% (982 residents)
  • Over 65: 17.8% (681 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Pelham?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Pelham is as follows:
  • White: 58.8% (2,253 residents)
  • Black or African American: 25.8% (990 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% ( residents)
  • Asian: 0.4% (15 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% ( residents)
  • Two or More Races: 12.9% (494 residents)
  • Other: 2.1% (79 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 93.6% of the population in Pelham.

How many housing units are there in Pelham?

There are 1,556 housing units in Pelham, reflecting a -2.2% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Pelham has a total of 1,363 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Pelham?

Pelham has a median household income of $39,044, representing a +10.1% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the job market overview for Pelham?

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 68% (1,059 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 32% (498 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 10.7% (167 residents)
  • Private companies: 65.1% (1,014 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 9.4% (147 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 14.7% (229 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