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

Total population
45,139
0.6% year-over-year change
Median household income
$62,969/yr
4.9% year-over-year change
Housing units
21,497
0.7% year-over-year change

Stokes County population

How many people live in Stokes County

Stokes County is home to 45,139 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49% of Stokes County locals are male, and 51% are female.

Total population
45,139
0.6% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49%
22,137
Female
51%
23,002
Value Percent YoY change
Male 22,137 49% 0.4%
Female 23,002 51% 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 Stokes County is 48, with the population distributed as follows: about 14.8% are children under 15, then 10.9% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 20.9% of the population, while another 30.2% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 23.1% are 65 or older.

Median age
47.7
Age breakdown
Under 15
14.8%
15 to 24
10.9%
25 to 44
20.9%
45 to 64
30.2%
Over 65
23.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 6,660 14.8% 0.3%
15 to 24 4,938 10.9% -1.5%
25 to 44 9,449 20.9% 1.3%
45 to 64 13,651 30.2% -1.1%
Over 65 10,441 23.1% 3.4%
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 Stokes County, 97.6% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.2% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.2% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 90.1% of locals are Caucasian, 3.7% are African American and 0.1% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 4.6% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
97.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.2%
Non-citizens
0.2%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 44,037 97.6% 0.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 996 2.2% 6.2%
Non-citizens 106 0.2% -43.9%
Racial breakdown
White
90.1%
Black or African American
3.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
0.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
4.6%
Other
1.3%
Value Percent
White 40,678 90.1%
Black or African American 1,650 3.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native 82 0.2%
Asian 33 0.1%
Two or more races 2,092 4.6%
Other 604 1.3%

Households in Stokes County

A peek inside Stokes County households

Stokes County has 19,546 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 62.2% are families, while the remaining 37.8% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
19,546
0.9% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
7,387
Family households
12,159
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 7,387 37.8% 4.7%
Family households 12,159 62.2% -1.3%
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 Stokes County

The housing landscape of Stokes County

Stokes County's housing consists of 21,497 units, with 69.7% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 0.6% 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 24.7% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
21,497
0.7% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 14,983 69.7%
1 unit, attached 122 0.6%
2 units 353 1.6%
3 or 4 units 260 1.2%
5 to 9 units 178 0.8%
10 to 19 units 96 0.4%
20 to 49 units 194 0.9%
50 or more units 6 0%
Mobile home 5,305 24.7%
Homes built since 2020
340
103.6% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Stokes County

In Stokes County, the median construction year is 1983. About 4.6% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 2.8% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 14.7% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 6.1% 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 1,000 4.6% -4.5%
Built between 1940 and 1949 612 2.8% -2.7%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,260 5.9% 21.7%
Built between 1960 and 1969 2,556 11.9% 9.8%
Built between 1970 and 1979 4,353 20.2% -7.5%
Built between 1980 and 1989 3,168 14.7% -4.8%
Built between 1990 and 1999 3,736 17.4% -2.7%
Built between 2000 and 2009 3,165 14.7% 8.2%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,307 6.1% -3.1%
Built in 2020 or later 340 1.6% 103.6%
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.

Stokes County occupancy rates

Out of the 19,546 occupied housing units in Stokes County, 79.2% are owner-occupied, while 20.8% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 9.1% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
19,546
0.9% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
4,068
Owner occupied
15,478
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 4,068 20.8% -2.8%
Owner occupied 15,478 79.2% 1.9%
Unoccupied housing units
9.1%
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.

Stokes County housing costs

Housing costs in Stokes County come to a median of $763 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $775.

Median housing costs per month
$763/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 Stokes County
$775/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 Stokes County

Stokes County education at a glance

About 46.1% of the population in Stokes County went to high school, while 21.9% pursued college studies. Another 11.8% earned an associate degree and 11.7% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 5.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 1,053 2.9% -11.1%
High school diploma 16,932 46.1% 1.2%
College diploma 8,046 21.9% -2.9%
Associate degree 4,338 11.8% 8.2%
Bachelor's degree 4,303 11.7% 0.8%
Graduate degree 2,069 5.6% 1.0%
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 Stokes County

How much people earn in Stokes County

The average annual household income in Stokes County was $76,672 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.5% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $62,969, reflecting a +4.9% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Stokes County
$76,672/year
2.5% year-over-year change
Median household income in Stokes County
$62,969/year
4.9% year-over-year change

Stokes County income by age

In Stokes County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $72,981. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $73,600 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $29,844, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $44,912 in earnings. Overall, 88.9% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $29,844 -30.8%
25 - 44 $72,981 8.4%
45 - 64 $73,600 5.2%
Over 65 $44,912 4.8%
Above poverty level
39,214
Below poverty level
4,918
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 39,214 88.9% 1.7%
Below poverty level 4,918 11.1% -6.8%

Employment in Stokes County

Workforce and job types in Stokes County

The job market in Stokes County is powered by 20,126 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 65.9% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 34.1% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9.1% run their own businesses, 67.7% are employed by private companies, and 14.8% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
20,126
0.2% year-over-year change
White collar
13,254
Blue collar
6,872
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 13,254 65.9% -2.6%
Blue collar 6,872 34.1% 6.3%
Employer type
Self employees
9.1%
Private companies
67.7%
Governmental workers
14.8%
Not for profit companies
8.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,827 9.1% 0.7%
Private companies 13,629 67.7% -1.2%
Governmental workers 2,968 14.8% 4.6%
Not for profit companies 1,702 8.5% 4.3%
Unemployment rate
3.1%
-32.2% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Stokes County stands at 3.1%, 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 Stokes County

How people get around in Stokes County

In Stokes County, the average commute time is 32 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 90.8% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 0.6% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
32 min
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 17,844 90.8% -1.6%
Taxicab 17 0.1% 1,600.0%
Motorcycle 12 0.1% 33.3%
Walk 116 0.6% 13.7%
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 Stokes County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
27009 2,939 1,192 $76,469 $102,127
27016 1,900 953 $57,273 $67,332
27019 3,544 1,779 $59,176 $64,802
27021 17,106 7,426 $63,552 $79,646
27022 1,285 488 $43,281 $78,467
27025 12,537 5,031 $56,682 $82,638
27041 8,303 3,382 $78,700 $88,898
27042 278 146 $46,510 $76,598
27043 6,295 2,640 $74,783 $88,438
27046 2,032 990 $64,464 $71,935

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FAQs about Stokes County demographics 

What is the total population of Stokes County?

Stokes County has a total population of 45,139 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 +0.6% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Stokes County?

The gender ratio in Stokes County is as follows:
  • 49% males (22,137 residents)
  • 51% females (23,002 residents)

What is the median age in Stokes County?

The median age in Stokes County is 47.7.

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

The age distribution in Stokes County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 14.8% (6,660 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 10.9% (4,938 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 20.9% (9,449 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 30.2% (13,651 residents)
  • Over 65: 23.1% (10,441 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Stokes County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Stokes County is as follows:
  • White: 90.1% (40,678 residents)
  • Black or African American: 3.7% (1,650 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (82 residents)
  • Asian: 0.1% (33 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 4.6% (2,092 residents)
  • Other: 1.3% (604 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 97.6% of the population in Stokes County.

How many housing units are there in Stokes County?

There are 21,497 housing units in Stokes County, reflecting a +0.7% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Stokes County has a total of 19,546 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Stokes County?

Stokes County has a median household income of $62,969, representing a +4.9% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 96.9% in Stokes County, with a workforce of 20,126 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 65.9% (13,254 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 34.1% (6,872 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9.1% (1,827 residents)
  • Private companies: 67.7% (13,629 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 14.8% (2,968 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 8.5% (1,702 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