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

Total population
33,590
-2.2% year-over-year change
Median household income
$45,730/yr
5.1% year-over-year change
Housing units
14,441
0.1% year-over-year change

Scotland County population

How many people live in Scotland County

Scotland County is home to 33,590 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.1% of Scotland County locals are male, and 49.9% are female.

Total population
33,590
-2.2% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.1%
16,840
Female
49.9%
16,750
Value Percent YoY change
Male 16,840 50.1% -4.9%
Female 16,750 49.9% 0.7%
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 Scotland County is 39, with the population distributed as follows: about 19.1% are children under 15, then 13.5% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 24.2% of the population, while another 24.8% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 18.4% are 65 or older.

Median age
38.7
Age breakdown
Under 15
19.1%
15 to 24
13.5%
25 to 44
24.2%
45 to 64
24.8%
Over 65
18.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 6,405 19.1% -0.2%
15 to 24 4,524 13.5% -1.8%
25 to 44 8,139 24.2% -6.4%
45 to 64 8,344 24.8% -1.8%
Over 65 6,178 18.4% 0.7%
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 Scotland County, 95.5% of the population are US-born citizens, while 3.2% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.3% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 40.6% of locals are Caucasian, 37% are African American and 1.3% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 7.1% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
95.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
3.2%
Non-citizens
1.3%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 32,072 95.5% -2.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 1,083 3.2% 29.4%
Non-citizens 435 1.3% -12.7%
Racial breakdown
White
40.6%
Black or African American
37%
American Indian and Alaska Native
11.6%
Asian
1.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
7.1%
Other
2.4%
Value Percent
White 13,623 40.6%
Black or African American 12,435 37%
American Indian and Alaska Native 3,907 11.6%
Asian 424 1.3%
Two or more races 2,400 7.1%
Other 801 2.4%

Households in Scotland County

A peek inside Scotland County households

Scotland County has 12,580 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 64.2% are families, while the remaining 35.8% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
12,580
1.6% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
4,506
Family households
8,074
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 4,506 35.8% -0.3%
Family households 8,074 64.2% 2.8%
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 Scotland County

The housing landscape of Scotland County

Scotland County's housing consists of 14,441 units, with 56.8% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1% 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 27.2% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
14,441
0.1% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 8,196 56.8%
1 unit, attached 144 1%
2 units 527 3.6%
3 or 4 units 730 5.1%
5 to 9 units 599 4.2%
10 to 19 units 58 0.4%
20 to 49 units 159 1.1%
50 or more units 100 0.7%
Mobile home 3,928 27.2%
Homes built since 2020
224
279.7% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Scotland County

In Scotland County, the median construction year is 1982. About 5.4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 8.7% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 4.7% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.6% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 780 5.4% -0.8%
Built between 1940 and 1949 723 5% 0.3%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,167 8.1% -6.4%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,521 10.5% -7.7%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,633 18.2% 3.8%
Built between 1980 and 1989 2,624 18.2% 1.4%
Built between 1990 and 1999 2,828 19.6% 1.2%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,261 8.7% -8.2%
Built between 2010 and 2019 680 4.7% 1.9%
Built in 2020 or later 224 1.6% 279.7%
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.

Scotland County occupancy rates

Out of the 12,580 occupied housing units in Scotland County, 61.8% are owner-occupied, while 38.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 12.9% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
12,580
1.6% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
4,807
Owner occupied
7,773
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 4,807 38.2% -5.5%
Owner occupied 7,773 61.8% 6.7%
Unoccupied housing units
12.9%
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.

Scotland County housing costs

Housing costs in Scotland County come to a median of $756 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $778.

Median housing costs per month
$756/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 Scotland County
$778/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 Scotland County

Scotland County education at a glance

About 48.6% of the population in Scotland County went to high school, while 22.6% pursued college studies. Another 9.8% earned an associate degree and 9.4% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 5.8% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 966 3.8% -0.5%
High school diploma 12,546 48.6% -4.7%
College diploma 5,822 22.6% -4.1%
Associate degree 2,516 9.8% -6.8%
Bachelor's degree 2,427 9.4% 0.8%
Graduate degree 1,509 5.8% 16.0%
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 Scotland County

How much people earn in Scotland County

The average annual household income in Scotland County was $70,579 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +5.8% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $45,730, reflecting a +5.1% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Scotland County
$70,579/year
5.8% year-over-year change
Median household income in Scotland County
$45,730/year
5.1% year-over-year change

Scotland County income by age

In Scotland County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $42,832. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $60,975 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $30,500, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $37,421 in earnings. Overall, 74.2% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $30,500 -4.0%
25 - 44 $42,832 -0.5%
45 - 64 $60,975 9.1%
Over 65 $37,421 8.0%
Above poverty level
22,963
Below poverty level
7,964
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 22,963 74.2% -1.6%
Below poverty level 7,964 25.8% -5.8%

Employment in Scotland County

Workforce and job types in Scotland County

The job market in Scotland County is powered by 12,494 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 68.2% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 31.8% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9.5% run their own businesses, 66.9% are employed by private companies, and 15% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
12,494
-4.9% year-over-year change
White collar
8,520
Blue collar
3,974
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 8,520 68.2% 1.9%
Blue collar 3,974 31.8% -16.7%
Employer type
Self employees
9.5%
Private companies
66.9%
Governmental workers
15%
Not for profit companies
8.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,186 9.5% -7.2%
Private companies 8,360 66.9% -9.9%
Governmental workers 1,872 15% 9.3%
Not for profit companies 1,076 8.6% 25.3%
Unemployment rate
10.9%
4.0% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Scotland County stands at 10.9%, 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 Scotland County

How people get around in Scotland County

Commuting methods vary: 92% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 0.8% 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 11,160 92% -5.3%
Bus or trolleybus 9 0.1% 12.5%
Ferryboat 10 0.1% 150.0%
Bicycle 19 0.2% 18.8%
Walk 101 0.8% -25.2%
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 Scotland County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
28351 4,535 1,787 $50,156 $71,417
28352 23,837 8,704 $43,728 $70,276
28363 962 386 $53,269 $84,410
28396 2,666 1,056 $63,250 $78,916
28343 1,574 593 $29,306 $43,660

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FAQs about Scotland County demographics 

What is the total population of Scotland County?

Scotland County has a total population of 33,590 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 -2.2% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Scotland County?

The gender ratio in Scotland County is as follows:
  • 50.1% males (16,840 residents)
  • 49.9% females (16,750 residents)

What is the median age in Scotland County?

The median age in Scotland County is 38.7.

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

The age distribution in Scotland County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 19.1% (6,405 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 13.5% (4,524 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 24.2% (8,139 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 24.8% (8,344 residents)
  • Over 65: 18.4% (6,178 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Scotland County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Scotland County is as follows:
  • White: 40.6% (13,623 residents)
  • Black or African American: 37% (12,435 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 11.6% (3,907 residents)
  • Asian: 1.3% (424 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 7.1% (2,400 residents)
  • Other: 2.4% (801 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 95.5% of the population in Scotland County.

How many housing units are there in Scotland County?

There are 14,441 housing units in Scotland County, reflecting a +0.1% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Scotland County has a total of 12,580 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Scotland County?

Scotland County has a median household income of $45,730, representing a +5.1% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 89.1% in Scotland County, with a workforce of 12,494 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 68.2% (8,520 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 31.8% (3,974 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9.5% (1,186 residents)
  • Private companies: 66.9% (8,360 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 15% (1,872 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 8.6% (1,076 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