Spruce Pine, NC demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
2,398
0.7% year-over-year change
Median household income
$42,098/yr
-11.5% year-over-year change
Housing units
1,228
6.5% year-over-year change

Spruce Pine population

How many people live in Spruce Pine

Spruce Pine is home to 2,398 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.3% of Spruce Pine locals are male, and 50.7% are female.

Total population
2,398
0.7% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.3%
1,183
Female
50.7%
1,215
Value Percent YoY change
Male 1,183 49.3% 3.1%
Female 1,215 50.7% -1.5%
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 Spruce Pine is 49, with the population distributed as follows: about 12.6% are children under 15, then 12.3% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 20.2% of the population, while another 33.2% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 21.7% are 65 or older.

Median age
48.6
Age breakdown
Under 15
12.6%
15 to 24
12.3%
25 to 44
20.2%
45 to 64
33.2%
Over 65
21.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 303 12.6% -5.3%
15 to 24 294 12.3% -12.8%
25 to 44 485 20.2% 0.2%
45 to 64 796 33.2% 12.3%
Over 65 520 21.7% -2.1%
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 Spruce Pine, 91.5% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.4% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 6.1% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 82.8% of locals are Caucasian, 0.8% are African American and 0.2% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 5.1% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
91.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.4%
Non-citizens
6.1%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 2,194 91.5% -0.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 57 2.4% 29.6%
Non-citizens 147 6.1% 5.0%
Racial breakdown
White
82.8%
Black or African American
0.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.5%
Asian
0.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
5.1%
Other
10.5%
Value Percent
White 1,986 82.8%
Black or African American 19 0.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native 13 0.5%
Asian 6 0.2%
Two or more races 122 5.1%
Other 252 10.5%

Households in Spruce Pine

A peek inside Spruce Pine households

Spruce Pine has 1,111 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 53.8% are families, while the remaining 46.2% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
1,111
9.7% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
513
Family households
598
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 513 46.2% 16.3%
Family households 598 53.8% 4.5%
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 Spruce Pine

The housing landscape of Spruce Pine

Spruce Pine's housing consists of 1,228 units, with 67.9% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 0.4% 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 6.4% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
1,228
6.5% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 834 67.9%
1 unit, attached 5 0.4%
2 units 44 3.6%
3 or 4 units 121 9.8%
5 to 9 units 101 8.2%
10 to 19 units 29 2.4%
20 to 49 units 16 1.3%
Mobile home 78 6.4%
Homes built since 2020
0
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Spruce Pine

In Spruce Pine, the median construction year is 1968. About 7.6% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 10.8% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 93 7.6% -24.4%
Built between 1940 and 1949 133 10.8% -3.6%
Built between 1950 and 1959 260 21.2% -14.2%
Built between 1960 and 1969 162 13.2% 3.9%
Built between 1970 and 1979 168 13.7% 75.0%
Built between 1980 and 1989 180 14.7% 13.9%
Built between 1990 and 1999 170 13.8% 21.4%
Built between 2000 and 2009 17 1.4% 30.8%
Built between 2010 and 2019 45 3.7% 73.1%
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.

Spruce Pine occupancy rates

Out of the 1,111 occupied housing units in Spruce Pine, 64.4% are owner-occupied, while 35.6% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 9.5% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
1,111
9.7% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
396
Owner occupied
715
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 396 35.6% 16.1%
Owner occupied 715 64.4% 6.4%
Unoccupied housing units
9.5%
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.

Spruce Pine housing costs

Housing costs in Spruce Pine come to a median of $739 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $837.

Median housing costs per month
$739/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 Spruce Pine
$837/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 Spruce Pine

Spruce Pine education at a glance

About 38.9% of the population in Spruce Pine went to high school, while 24.6% pursued college studies. Another 9.2% earned an associate degree and 11.3% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 10.3% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 117 5.7% 62.5%
High school diploma 792 38.9% -1.1%
College diploma 501 24.6% 2.5%
Associate degree 188 9.2% -25.7%
Bachelor's degree 230 11.3% 26.4%
Graduate degree 209 10.3% 26.7%
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 Spruce Pine

How much people earn in Spruce Pine

The average annual household income in Spruce Pine was $67,548 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -8.6% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $42,098, reflecting a -11.5% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Spruce Pine
$67,548/year
-8.6% year-over-year change
Median household income in Spruce Pine
$42,098/year
-11.5% year-over-year change

Spruce Pine income by age

In Spruce Pine, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $55,650. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $35,294 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $39,531, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $46,458 in earnings. Overall, 77.9% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $39,531 -29.9%
25 - 44 $55,650 -18.8%
45 - 64 $35,294 -17.7%
Over 65 $46,458 2.2%
Above poverty level
1,780
Below poverty level
504
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 1,780 77.9% -4.4%
Below poverty level 504 22.1% 24.4%

Average renter income in Spruce Pine

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Spruce Pine, their median household income was $27,718 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 36.2%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$27,718
Rent-to-income ratio
36.2%
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 Spruce Pine

Workforce and job types in Spruce Pine

The job market in Spruce Pine is powered by 1,065 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 65.1% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 34.9% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 6.8% run their own businesses, 57.6% are employed by private companies, and 27.4% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
1,065
0.8% year-over-year change
White collar
693
Blue collar
372
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 693 65.1% -3.9%
Blue collar 372 34.9% 10.7%
Employer type
Self employees
6.8%
Private companies
57.6%
Governmental workers
27.4%
Not for profit companies
8.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 73 6.8% -22.3%
Private companies 613 57.6% -7.8%
Governmental workers 292 27.4% 33.3%
Not for profit companies 87 8.2% 10.1%
Unemployment rate
1.8%
5.6% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Spruce Pine stands at 1.8%, 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 Spruce Pine

How people get around in Spruce Pine

In Spruce Pine, the average commute time is 22 minutes.

Commute time
22 min
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 1,006 96.1% 6.6%
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 Spruce Pine by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
28777 10,178 3,989 $63,378 $76,645

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FAQs about Spruce Pine demographics 

What is the total population of Spruce Pine?

Spruce Pine has a total population of 2,398 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 +0.7% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Spruce Pine?

The gender ratio in Spruce Pine is as follows:
  • 49.3% males (1,183 residents)
  • 50.7% females (1,215 residents)

What is the median age in Spruce Pine?

The median age in Spruce Pine is 48.6.

What is the age distribution of the population in Spruce Pine?

The age distribution in Spruce Pine is as follows:
  • Under 15: 12.6% (303 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.3% (294 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 20.2% (485 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 33.2% (796 residents)
  • Over 65: 21.7% (520 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Spruce Pine?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Spruce Pine is as follows:
  • White: 82.8% (1,986 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.8% (19 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.5% (13 residents)
  • Asian: 0.2% (6 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 5.1% (122 residents)
  • Other: 10.5% (252 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 91.5% of the population in Spruce Pine.

How many housing units are there in Spruce Pine?

There are 1,228 housing units in Spruce Pine, reflecting a +6.5% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Spruce Pine and what is the average household size?

Spruce Pine has a total of 1,111 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Spruce Pine?

Spruce Pine has a median household income of $42,098, representing a -11.5% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Spruce Pine?

The employment rate is 98.2% in Spruce Pine, with a workforce of 1,065 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 65.1% (693 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 34.9% (372 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 6.8% (73 residents)
  • Private companies: 57.6% (613 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 27.4% (292 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 8.2% (87 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