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

Total population
64,930
0.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$51,410/yr
3.3% year-over-year change
Housing units
32,775
0.3% year-over-year change

Rutherford County population

How many people live in Rutherford County

Rutherford County is home to 64,930 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.4% of Rutherford County locals are male, and 51.6% are female.

Total population
64,930
0.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.4%
31,451
Female
51.6%
33,479
Value Percent YoY change
Male 31,451 48.4% -0.3%
Female 33,479 51.6% 0.5%
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 Rutherford County is 45, with the population distributed as follows: about 16.3% are children under 15, then 10.9% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 22.4% of the population, while another 28.1% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 22.3% are 65 or older.

Median age
45.3
Age breakdown
Under 15
16.3%
15 to 24
10.9%
25 to 44
22.4%
45 to 64
28.1%
Over 65
22.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 10,581 16.3% -1.7%
15 to 24 7,098 10.9% 1.1%
25 to 44 14,562 22.4% 0.7%
45 to 64 18,231 28.1% -0.2%
Over 65 14,458 22.3% 0.9%
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 Rutherford County, 96.3% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.1% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.6% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 81.9% of locals are Caucasian, 7.7% are African American and 0.5% have Asian roots. Another 0.2% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 2.5% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 7.2% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
96.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.1%
Non-citizens
1.6%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 62,514 96.3% 0.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 1,391 2.1% -14.6%
Non-citizens 1,025 1.6% 1.8%
Racial breakdown
White
81.9%
Black or African American
7.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
0.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
7.2%
Other
2.5%
Value Percent
White 53,155 81.9%
Black or African American 4,984 7.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native 145 0.2%
Asian 304 0.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 37 0.1%
Two or more races 4,677 7.2%
Other 1,628 2.5%

Households in Rutherford County

A peek inside Rutherford County households

Rutherford County has 26,642 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
26,642
0.2% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
9,700
Family households
16,942
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 9,700 36.4% 1.2%
Family households 16,942 63.6% -0.3%
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 Rutherford County

The housing landscape of Rutherford County

Rutherford County's housing consists of 32,775 units, with 72.3% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1.8% 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 17.5% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
32,775
0.3% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 23,690 72.3%
1 unit, attached 606 1.8%
2 units 526 1.6%
3 or 4 units 851 2.6%
5 to 9 units 770 2.4%
10 to 19 units 191 0.6%
20 to 49 units 231 0.7%
50 or more units 56 0.2%
Mobile home 5,729 17.5%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 125 0.4%
Homes built since 2020
462
43.5% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Rutherford County

In Rutherford County, the median construction year is 1981. About 7.6% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 6.6% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 13.4% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 6.1% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.4% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 2,476 7.6% -0.4%
Built between 1940 and 1949 2,169 6.6% -7.7%
Built between 1950 and 1959 3,287 10% -2.1%
Built between 1960 and 1969 3,475 10.6% 3.1%
Built between 1970 and 1979 4,638 14.2% -2.1%
Built between 1980 and 1989 4,015 12.2% 3.5%
Built between 1990 and 1999 5,856 17.9% 0.9%
Built between 2000 and 2009 4,387 13.4% -3.0%
Built between 2010 and 2019 2,010 6.1% 8.2%
Built in 2020 or later 462 1.4% 43.5%
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.

Rutherford County occupancy rates

Out of the 26,642 occupied housing units in Rutherford County, 73.9% are owner-occupied, while 26.1% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 18.7% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
26,642
0.2% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
6,958
Owner occupied
19,684
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 6,958 26.1% 1.0%
Owner occupied 19,684 73.9% -0.1%
Unoccupied housing units
18.7%
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.

Rutherford County housing costs

Housing costs in Rutherford County come to a median of $749 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $783.

Median housing costs per month
$749/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 Rutherford County
$783/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 Rutherford County

Rutherford County education at a glance

About 41.2% of the population in Rutherford County went to high school, while 22.5% pursued college studies. Another 12% earned an associate degree and 12.9% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 7.5% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 2,040 3.9% -3.8%
High school diploma 21,345 41.2% -0.7%
College diploma 11,689 22.5% -0.8%
Associate degree 6,234 12% 1.3%
Bachelor's degree 6,685 12.9% -0.1%
Graduate degree 3,876 7.5% 11.7%
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 Rutherford County

How much people earn in Rutherford County

The average annual household income in Rutherford County was $72,230 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +3.8% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $51,410, reflecting a +3.3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Rutherford County
$72,230/year
3.8% year-over-year change
Median household income in Rutherford County
$51,410/year
3.3% year-over-year change

Rutherford County income by age

In Rutherford County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $61,318. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $62,969 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $31,806, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $40,364 in earnings. Overall, 83.2% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $31,806 N/A
25 - 44 $61,318 6.4%
45 - 64 $62,969 11.0%
Over 65 $40,364 -2.9%
Above poverty level
52,606
Below poverty level
10,586
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 52,606 83.2% 1.1%
Below poverty level 10,586 16.8% -3.6%

Employment in Rutherford County

Workforce and job types in Rutherford County

The job market in Rutherford County is powered by 27,480 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 71.9% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 28.1% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 11.6% run their own businesses, 68.3% are employed by private companies, and 14% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
27,480
1.5% year-over-year change
White collar
19,749
Blue collar
7,731
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 19,749 71.9% 5.5%
Blue collar 7,731 28.1% -7.6%
Employer type
Self employees
11.6%
Private companies
68.3%
Governmental workers
14%
Not for profit companies
6.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 3,199 11.6% 1.9%
Private companies 18,769 68.3% 0.3%
Governmental workers 3,846 14% 7.1%
Not for profit companies 1,666 6.1% 2.1%
Unemployment rate
6.4%
18.3% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Rutherford County stands at 6.4%, 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 Rutherford County

How people get around in Rutherford County

Commuting methods vary: 88.6% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.4% 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 23,612 88.6% -0.6%
Taxicab 8 0% -11.1%
Bus or trolleybus 20 0.1% -13.0%
Motorcycle 35 0.1% -52.0%
Bicycle 9 0% -59.1%
Walk 382 1.4% 10.4%
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 Rutherford County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
28043 20,930 8,271 $42,276 $64,177
28076 105 77 $0 $63,496
28114 7,104 2,762 $60,500 $74,166
28139 20,008 8,124 $56,558 $78,249
28160 3,665 1,623 $40,868 $57,892
28167 2,253 933 $59,732 $67,712
28720 138 73 $63,438 $114,958
28018 5,034 2,227 $50,727 $67,412
28040 6,961 2,844 $58,816 $73,214

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FAQs about Rutherford County demographics 

What is the total population of Rutherford County?

Rutherford County has a total population of 64,930 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 +0.1% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Rutherford County?

The gender ratio in Rutherford County is as follows:
  • 48.4% males (31,451 residents)
  • 51.6% females (33,479 residents)

What is the median age in Rutherford County?

The median age in Rutherford County is 45.3.

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

The age distribution in Rutherford County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 16.3% (10,581 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 10.9% (7,098 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 22.4% (14,562 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 28.1% (18,231 residents)
  • Over 65: 22.3% (14,458 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Rutherford County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Rutherford County is as follows:
  • White: 81.9% (53,155 residents)
  • Black or African American: 7.7% (4,984 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (145 residents)
  • Asian: 0.5% (304 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (37 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 7.2% (4,677 residents)
  • Other: 2.5% (1,628 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 96.3% of the population in Rutherford County.

How many housing units are there in Rutherford County?

There are 32,775 housing units in Rutherford County, reflecting a +0.3% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Rutherford County has a total of 26,642 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Rutherford County?

Rutherford County has a median household income of $51,410, representing a +3.3% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 93.6% in Rutherford County, with a workforce of 27,480 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 71.9% (19,749 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 28.1% (7,731 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 11.6% (3,199 residents)
  • Private companies: 68.3% (18,769 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 14% (3,846 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 6.1% (1,666 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