Rockingham, NC demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
8,967
-1.4% year-over-year change
Median household income
$37,224/yr
1.4% year-over-year change
Housing units
4,433
0.4% year-over-year change

Rockingham population

How many people live in Rockingham

Rockingham is home to 8,967 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 43% of Rockingham locals are male, and 57% are female.

Total population
8,967
-1.4% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
43%
3,859
Female
57%
5,108
Value Percent YoY change
Male 3,859 43% 0.4%
Female 5,108 57% -2.7%
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 Rockingham is 39, with the population distributed as follows: about 22.4% are children under 15, then 9.4% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 26.4% of the population, while another 23.8% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 18.1% are 65 or older.

Median age
39.2
Age breakdown
Under 15
22.4%
15 to 24
9.4%
25 to 44
26.4%
45 to 64
23.8%
Over 65
18.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 2,004 22.4% -2.4%
15 to 24 840 9.4% -24.8%
25 to 44 2,363 26.4% 16.5%
45 to 64 2,139 23.8% -9.2%
Over 65 1,621 18.1% 5.4%
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 Rockingham, 96.1% of the population are US-born citizens, while 3.1% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.8% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 52.8% of locals are Caucasian, 34.4% are African American and 0.9% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 2.3% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
96.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
3.1%
Non-citizens
0.8%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 8,617 96.1% -2.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 277 3.1% 40.6%
Non-citizens 73 0.8% 92.1%
Racial breakdown
White
52.8%
Black or African American
34.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native
2%
Asian
0.9%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
2.3%
Other
7.7%
Value Percent
White 4,733 52.8%
Black or African American 3,088 34.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native 177 2%
Asian 79 0.9%
Two or more races 203 2.3%
Other 687 7.7%

Households in Rockingham

A peek inside Rockingham households

Rockingham has 4,041 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 61.6% are families, while the remaining 38.4% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
4,041
2.3% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
1,553
Family households
2,488
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,553 38.4% 11.8%
Family households 2,488 61.6% -2.9%
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 Rockingham

The housing landscape of Rockingham

Rockingham's housing consists of 4,433 units, with 69.4% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 0.3% and offer a more compact, shared living style.

Housing units
4,433
0.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 3,075 69.4%
1 unit, attached 12 0.3%
2 units 328 7.4%
3 or 4 units 365 8.2%
5 to 9 units 514 11.6%
10 to 19 units 16 0.4%
20 to 49 units 6 0.1%
50 or more units 117 2.6%
Homes built since 2020
41
485.7% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Rockingham

In Rockingham, the median construction year is 1967. About 11.4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 8.7% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 12.6% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 2.5% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.9% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 505 11.4% 21.1%
Built between 1940 and 1949 386 8.7% -13.7%
Built between 1950 and 1959 559 12.6% 5.5%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,158 26.1% -3.6%
Built between 1970 and 1979 673 15.2% -1.8%
Built between 1980 and 1989 334 7.5% -4.3%
Built between 1990 and 1999 109 2.5% -34.3%
Built between 2000 and 2009 557 12.6% 43.6%
Built between 2010 and 2019 111 2.5% -50.5%
Built in 2020 or later 41 0.9% 485.7%
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.

Rockingham occupancy rates

Out of the 4,041 occupied housing units in Rockingham, 61.5% are owner-occupied, while 38.5% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 8.8% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
4,041
2.3% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,554
Owner occupied
2,487
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,554 38.5% -7.7%
Owner occupied 2,487 61.5% 9.7%
Unoccupied housing units
8.8%
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.

Rockingham housing costs

Housing costs in Rockingham come to a median of $726 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $659.

Median housing costs per month
$726/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 Rockingham
$659/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 Rockingham

Rockingham education at a glance

About 43.8% of the population in Rockingham went to high school, while 23.4% pursued college studies. Another 11.7% earned an associate degree and 12.2% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 7% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 125 1.9% -18.3%
High school diploma 2,919 43.8% 12.8%
College diploma 1,560 23.4% -17.3%
Associate degree 776 11.7% -2.1%
Bachelor's degree 811 12.2% -7.1%
Graduate degree 466 7% 32.0%
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 Rockingham

How much people earn in Rockingham

The average annual household income in Rockingham was $55,353 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +3.9% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $37,224, reflecting a +1.4% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Rockingham
$55,353/year
3.9% year-over-year change
Median household income in Rockingham
$37,224/year
1.4% year-over-year change

Rockingham income by age

In Rockingham, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $53,780. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $37,231 overall. Overall, 70.1% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $53,780 N/A
45 - 64 $37,231 -30.5%
Over 65 $28,471 2.0%
Above poverty level
6,100
Below poverty level
2,606
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 6,100 70.1% 3.9%
Below poverty level 2,606 29.9% -13.2%

Average renter income in Rockingham

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Rockingham, their median household income was $15,484 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 51.1%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$15,484
Rent-to-income ratio
51.1%
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 Rockingham

Workforce and job types in Rockingham

The job market in Rockingham is powered by 3,320 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 72.8% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 27.2% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 4.2% run their own businesses, 62.3% are employed by private companies, and 27% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
3,320
-11.0% year-over-year change
White collar
2,417
Blue collar
903
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 2,417 72.8% -6.8%
Blue collar 903 27.2% -20.7%
Employer type
Self employees
4.2%
Private companies
62.3%
Governmental workers
27%
Not for profit companies
6.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 140 4.2% -15.2%
Private companies 2,068 62.3% -19.9%
Governmental workers 898 27% 8.1%
Not for profit companies 214 6.4% 39.9%
Unemployment rate
11.3%
13.1% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Rockingham stands at 11.3%, 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 Rockingham

How people get around in Rockingham

In Rockingham, the average commute time is 24 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 96.6% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
24 min
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 3,184 96.6% -10.0%
Walk 65 2% 38.3%
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 Rockingham by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
28379 23,417 10,101 $49,149 $64,988

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FAQs about Rockingham demographics 

What is the total population of Rockingham?

Rockingham has a total population of 8,967 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 -1.4% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Rockingham?

The gender ratio in Rockingham is as follows:
  • 43% males (3,859 residents)
  • 57% females (5,108 residents)

What is the median age in Rockingham?

The median age in Rockingham is 39.2.

What is the age distribution of the population in Rockingham?

The age distribution in Rockingham is as follows:
  • Under 15: 22.4% (2,004 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 9.4% (840 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 26.4% (2,363 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 23.8% (2,139 residents)
  • Over 65: 18.1% (1,621 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Rockingham?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Rockingham is as follows:
  • White: 52.8% (4,733 residents)
  • Black or African American: 34.4% (3,088 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 2% (177 residents)
  • Asian: 0.9% (79 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 2.3% (203 residents)
  • Other: 7.7% (687 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 96.1% of the population in Rockingham.

How many housing units are there in Rockingham?

There are 4,433 housing units in Rockingham, 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 Rockingham and what is the average household size?

Rockingham has a total of 4,041 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Rockingham?

Rockingham has a median household income of $37,224, representing a +1.4% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 88.7% in Rockingham, with a workforce of 3,320 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 72.8% (2,417 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 27.2% (903 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 4.2% (140 residents)
  • Private companies: 62.3% (2,068 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 27% (898 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 6.4% (214 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