Southern Pines, NC demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
16,420
2.3% year-over-year change
Median household income
$88,535/yr
5.8% year-over-year change
Housing units
8,620
-1.0% year-over-year change

Southern Pines population

How many people live in Southern Pines

Southern Pines is home to 16,420 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 47.8% of Southern Pines locals are male, and 52.2% are female.

Total population
16,420
2.3% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
47.8%
7,849
Female
52.2%
8,571
Value Percent YoY change
Male 7,849 47.8% 3.0%
Female 8,571 52.2% 1.6%
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 Southern Pines is 39, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.3% are children under 15, then 9.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 27.8% of the population, while another 18.6% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 25.6% are 65 or older.

Median age
38.7
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.3%
15 to 24
9.8%
25 to 44
27.8%
45 to 64
18.6%
Over 65
25.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 2,999 18.3% 5.3%
15 to 24 1,602 9.8% 12.7%
25 to 44 4,567 27.8% 0.1%
45 to 64 3,047 18.6% 14.7%
Over 65 4,205 25.6% -7.9%
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 Southern Pines, 93.1% of the population are US-born citizens, while 4.8% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 2.1% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 74.8% of locals are Caucasian, 10.8% are African American and 1.4% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 11.5% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
93.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
4.8%
Non-citizens
2.1%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 15,281 93.1% 2.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 795 4.8% 3.1%
Non-citizens 344 2.1% -16.1%
Racial breakdown
White
74.8%
Black or African American
10.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
1.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
11.5%
Other
1.5%
Value Percent
White 12,288 74.8%
Black or African American 1,766 10.8%
Asian 237 1.4%
Two or more races 1,882 11.5%
Other 247 1.5%

Households in Southern Pines

A peek inside Southern Pines households

Southern Pines has 7,411 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 58.5% are families, while the remaining 41.5% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
7,411
0.6% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
3,074
Family households
4,337
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 3,074 41.5% -4.7%
Family households 4,337 58.5% 4.7%
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 Southern Pines

The housing landscape of Southern Pines

Southern Pines's housing consists of 8,620 units, with 52.9% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 10.1% 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 3% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
8,620
-1.0% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 4,560 52.9%
1 unit, attached 872 10.1%
2 units 152 1.8%
3 or 4 units 825 9.6%
5 to 9 units 406 4.7%
10 to 19 units 561 6.5%
20 to 49 units 679 7.9%
50 or more units 280 3.2%
Mobile home 263 3%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 22 0.3%
Homes built since 2020
376
87.1% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Southern Pines

In Southern Pines, the median construction year is 1996. About 8.1% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 1.5% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 9.8% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 29.3% between 2010 and 2019, and 4.4% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 700 8.1% 0.7%
Built between 1940 and 1949 132 1.5% -16.5%
Built between 1950 and 1959 412 4.8% -17.4%
Built between 1960 and 1969 595 6.9% 12.5%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,102 12.8% -8.2%
Built between 1980 and 1989 662 7.7% -18.4%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,273 14.8% 8.3%
Built between 2000 and 2009 843 9.8% -9.8%
Built between 2010 and 2019 2,525 29.3% 0.7%
Built in 2020 or later 376 4.4% 87.1%
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.

Southern Pines occupancy rates

Out of the 7,411 occupied housing units in Southern Pines, 56.6% are owner-occupied, while 43.4% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 14% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
7,411
0.6% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
3,213
Owner occupied
4,198
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 3,213 43.4% 1.2%
Owner occupied 4,198 56.6% 0.2%
Unoccupied housing units
14.0%
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.

Southern Pines housing costs

Housing costs in Southern Pines come to a median of $1,454 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,354.

Median housing costs per month
$1,454/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 Southern Pines
$1,354/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 Southern Pines

Southern Pines education at a glance

About 20.8% of the population in Southern Pines went to high school, while 16.4% pursued college studies. Another 9.4% earned an associate degree and 29.3% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 21.8% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 289 2.2% -29.3%
High school diploma 2,722 20.8% -1.4%
College diploma 2,136 16.4% 17.4%
Associate degree 1,226 9.4% 4.3%
Bachelor's degree 3,832 29.3% -3.9%
Graduate degree 2,854 21.8% 4.5%
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 Southern Pines

How much people earn in Southern Pines

The average annual household income in Southern Pines was $116,804 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.9% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $88,535, reflecting a +5.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Southern Pines
$116,804/year
2.9% year-over-year change
Median household income in Southern Pines
$88,535/year
5.8% year-over-year change

Southern Pines income by age

In Southern Pines, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $111,750. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $94,607 overall. Overall, 90.3% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $111,750 3.0%
45 - 64 $94,607 21.2%
Over 65 $58,125 6.5%
Above poverty level
14,251
Below poverty level
1,533
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 14,251 90.3% 2.9%
Below poverty level 1,533 9.7% -2.1%

Average renter income in Southern Pines

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Southern Pines, their median household income was $52,928 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 30.7%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$52,928
Rent-to-income ratio
30.7%
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 Southern Pines

Workforce and job types in Southern Pines

The job market in Southern Pines is powered by 6,232 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 88.5% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 11.5% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 14.2% run their own businesses, 63.4% are employed by private companies, and 14.9% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
6,232
3.4% year-over-year change
White collar
5,515
Blue collar
717
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 5,515 88.5% 4.1%
Blue collar 717 11.5% -1.8%
Employer type
Self employees
14.2%
Private companies
63.4%
Governmental workers
14.9%
Not for profit companies
7.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 888 14.2% 16.2%
Private companies 3,952 63.4% -0.3%
Governmental workers 930 14.9% 23.0%
Not for profit companies 462 7.4% -14.9%
Unemployment rate
6.7%
26.8% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Southern Pines stands at 6.7%, 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 Southern Pines

How people get around in Southern Pines

Commuting methods vary: 78.7% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 0.9% 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 5,733 78.7% 4.7%
Bus or trolleybus 49 0.7% -2.0%
Walk 66 0.9% 88.6%
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 Southern Pines by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
28387 16,059 7,670 $74,830 $104,153

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FAQs about Southern Pines demographics 

What is the total population of Southern Pines?

Southern Pines has a total population of 16,420 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 +2.3% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Southern Pines?

The gender ratio in Southern Pines is as follows:
  • 47.8% males (7,849 residents)
  • 52.2% females (8,571 residents)

What is the median age in Southern Pines?

The median age in Southern Pines is 38.7.

What is the age distribution of the population in Southern Pines?

The age distribution in Southern Pines is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.3% (2,999 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 9.8% (1,602 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 27.8% (4,567 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 18.6% (3,047 residents)
  • Over 65: 25.6% (4,205 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Southern Pines?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Southern Pines is as follows:
  • White: 74.8% (12,288 residents)
  • Black or African American: 10.8% (1,766 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% (0 residents)
  • Asian: 1.4% (237 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 11.5% (1,882 residents)
  • Other: 1.5% (247 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 93.1% of the population in Southern Pines.

How many housing units are there in Southern Pines?

There are 8,620 housing units in Southern Pines, reflecting a -1.0% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Southern Pines has a total of 7,411 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Southern Pines?

Southern Pines has a median household income of $88,535, representing a +5.8% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Southern Pines?

The employment rate is 93.3% in Southern Pines, with a workforce of 6,232 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 88.5% (5,515 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 11.5% (717 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 14.2% (888 residents)
  • Private companies: 63.4% (3,952 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 14.9% (930 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7.4% (462 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