Downtown Raleigh, Raleigh, NC demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
5,135
1.9% year-over-year change
Median household income
$80,917/yr
2.2% year-over-year change
Housing units
2,680
6.9% year-over-year change

Downtown Raleigh population

How many people live in Downtown Raleigh

Downtown Raleigh is home to 5,135 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 51.1% of Downtown Raleigh locals are male, and 48.9% are female.

Total population
5,135
1.9% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
51.1%
2,625
Female
48.9%
2,509
Value Percent YoY change
Male 2,625 51.1% -3.8%
Female 2,509 48.9% 8.7%
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 Downtown Raleigh is 34, with the population distributed as follows: about 13.7% are children under 15, then 16.2% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 43.8% of the population, while another 18.7% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 7.6% are 65 or older.

Median age
34
Age breakdown
Under 15
13.7%
15 to 24
16.2%
25 to 44
43.8%
45 to 64
18.7%
Over 65
7.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 704 13.7% -3.8%
15 to 24 831 16.2% -1.1%
25 to 44 2,247 43.8% 4.4%
45 to 64 961 18.7% 2.5%
Over 65 391 7.6% 4.5%
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 Downtown Raleigh, 91.3% of the population are US-born citizens, while 4.9% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 3.8% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 42.2% of locals are Caucasian, 37.4% are African American and 3.9% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 12.2% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
91.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
4.9%
Non-citizens
3.8%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 4,689 91.3% 2.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 250 4.9% -4.2%
Non-citizens 195 3.8% 6.6%
Racial breakdown
White
42.2%
Black or African American
37.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.3%
Asian
3.9%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
12.2%
Other
4%
Value Percent
White 2,167 42.2%
Black or African American 1,920 37.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native 17 0.3%
Asian 201 3.9%
Two or more races 626 12.2%
Other 203 4%

Households in Downtown Raleigh

A peek inside Downtown Raleigh households

Downtown Raleigh has 2,435 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 34.5% are families, while the remaining 65.5% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
2,435
10.5% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
1,596
Family households
839
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,596 65.5% 16.4%
Family households 839 34.5% 0.7%
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 Downtown Raleigh

The housing landscape of Downtown Raleigh

Downtown Raleigh's housing consists of 2,680 units, with 33.8% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 6% 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 0.9% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
2,680
6.9% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 905 33.8%
1 unit, attached 160 6%
2 units 168 6.3%
3 or 4 units 132 4.9%
5 to 9 units 185 6.9%
10 to 19 units 93 3.5%
20 to 49 units 146 5.4%
50 or more units 834 31.1%
Mobile home 25 0.9%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 32 1.2%
Homes built since 2020
51
-1.9% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Downtown Raleigh

In Downtown Raleigh, the median construction year is 2002. About 13% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 2.2% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 17.4% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 38.3% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.9% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 348 13% -15.5%
Built between 1940 and 1949 59 2.2% -1.7%
Built between 1950 and 1959 57 2.1% -41.8%
Built between 1960 and 1969 146 5.4% -13.1%
Built between 1970 and 1979 107 4% 23.0%
Built between 1980 and 1989 132 4.9% -0.8%
Built between 1990 and 1999 288 10.8% 22.0%
Built between 2000 and 2009 465 17.4% 45.8%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,026 38.3% 8.7%
Built in 2020 or later 51 1.9% -1.9%
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.

Downtown Raleigh occupancy rates

Out of the 2,435 occupied housing units in Downtown Raleigh, 28.4% are owner-occupied, while 71.6% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 9.1% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
2,435
10.5% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,744
Owner occupied
691
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,744 71.6% 13.2%
Owner occupied 691 28.4% 4.1%
Unoccupied housing units
9.1%
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.

Downtown Raleigh housing costs

Housing costs in Downtown Raleigh come to a median of $1,570 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,548.

Median housing costs per month
$1,570/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 Downtown Raleigh
$1,548/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 Downtown Raleigh

Downtown Raleigh education at a glance

About 26.9% of the population in Downtown Raleigh went to high school, while 17.2% pursued college studies. Another 5.4% earned an associate degree and 30.5% 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 178 4.1% 2.3%
High school diploma 1,158 26.9% 0.6%
College diploma 741 17.2% -2.4%
Associate degree 232 5.4% -4.9%
Bachelor's degree 1,315 30.5% 6.1%
Graduate degree 684 15.9% 4.9%
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 Downtown Raleigh

How much people earn in Downtown Raleigh

The average annual household income in Downtown Raleigh was $106,977 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -2.1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $80,917, reflecting a +2.2% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Downtown Raleigh
$106,977/year
-2.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in Downtown Raleigh
$80,917/year
2.2% year-over-year change

Downtown Raleigh income by age

In Downtown Raleigh, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $94,766. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $77,934 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $56,197, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $43,517 in earnings. Overall, 80.6% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $56,197 12.6%
25 - 44 $94,766 -4.3%
45 - 64 $77,934 -4.6%
Over 65 $43,517 -5.8%
Above poverty level
3,638
Below poverty level
878
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 3,638 80.6% 2.8%
Below poverty level 878 19.4% 18.5%

Employment in Downtown Raleigh

Workforce and job types in Downtown Raleigh

92.1% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 7.9% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 6.8% run their own businesses, 74.2% are employed by private companies, and 12.9% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

White collar
2,484
Blue collar
213
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 2,484 92.1% 4.8%
Blue collar 213 7.9% -12.7%
Employer type
Self employees
6.8%
Private companies
74.2%
Governmental workers
12.9%
Not for profit companies
6.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 183 6.8% 18.1%
Private companies 2,001 74.2% -0.4%
Governmental workers 349 12.9% 9.8%
Not for profit companies 164 6.1% 24.2%

Transportation in Downtown Raleigh

How people get around in Downtown Raleigh

Commuting methods vary: 76.3% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 17.2% 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 1,270 76.3% -1.0%
Taxicab 20 1.2% -35.5%
Bus or trolleybus 70 4.2% -2.8%
Bicycle 18 1.1% -28.0%
Walk 287 17.2% -8.9%
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 Downtown Raleigh by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
27601 9,905 4,754 $71,350 $113,998
27603 53,972 21,942 $90,484 $121,184

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FAQs about Downtown Raleigh demographics 

What is the total population of Downtown Raleigh?

Downtown Raleigh has a total population of 5,135 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 +1.9% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Downtown Raleigh?

The gender ratio in Downtown Raleigh is as follows:
  • 51.1% males (2,625 residents)
  • 48.9% females (2,509 residents)

What is the median age in Downtown Raleigh?

The median age in Downtown Raleigh is 34.

What is the age distribution of the population in Downtown Raleigh?

The age distribution in Downtown Raleigh is as follows:
  • Under 15: 13.7% (704 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 16.2% (831 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 43.8% (2,247 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 18.7% (961 residents)
  • Over 65: 7.6% (391 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Downtown Raleigh?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Downtown Raleigh is as follows:
  • White: 42.2% (2,167 residents)
  • Black or African American: 37.4% (1,920 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.3% (17 residents)
  • Asian: 3.9% (201 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% ( residents)
  • Two or More Races: 12.2% (626 residents)
  • Other: 4% (203 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 91.3% of the population in Downtown Raleigh.

How many housing units are there in Downtown Raleigh?

There are 2,680 housing units in Downtown Raleigh, reflecting a +6.9% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Downtown Raleigh has a total of 2,435 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Downtown Raleigh?

Downtown Raleigh has a median household income of $80,917, representing a +2.2% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the job market overview for Downtown Raleigh?

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

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 92.1% (2,484 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 7.9% (213 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 6.8% (183 residents)
  • Private companies: 74.2% (2,001 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 12.9% (349 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 6.1% (164 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