Sunset Beach, NC demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
4,351
0.6% year-over-year change
Median household income
$81,976/yr
-3.5% year-over-year change
Housing units
5,238
0.3% year-over-year change

Sunset Beach population

How many people live in Sunset Beach

Sunset Beach is home to 4,351 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 40.4% of Sunset Beach locals are male, and 59.6% are female.

Total population
4,351
0.6% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
40.4%
1,760
Female
59.6%
2,591
Value Percent YoY change
Male 1,760 40.4% -2.6%
Female 2,591 59.6% 2.9%
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 Sunset Beach is 69, with the population distributed as follows: about 2.3% are children under 15, then 2.3% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 9.2% of the population, while another 26.4% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 59.7% are 65 or older.

Median age
69.1
Age breakdown
Under 15
2.3%
15 to 24
2.3%
25 to 44
9.2%
45 to 64
26.4%
Over 65
59.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 100 2.3% 17.6%
15 to 24 101 2.3% -18.6%
25 to 44 401 9.2% -9.7%
45 to 64 1,150 26.4% -3.0%
Over 65 2,599 59.7% 4.5%
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 Sunset Beach, 96.4% of the population are US-born citizens, while 3.6% have gained naturalized citizenship. As for race, 94.2% of locals are Caucasian, 2% are African American and 0.2% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 2.8% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
96.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
3.6%
Non-citizens
0%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 4,194 96.4% 0.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 157 3.6% 2.6%
Racial breakdown
White
94.2%
Black or African American
2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
0.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
2.8%
Other
0.8%
Value Percent
White 4,098 94.2%
Black or African American 85 2%
Asian 7 0.2%
Two or more races 124 2.8%
Other 37 0.8%

Households in Sunset Beach

A peek inside Sunset Beach households

Sunset Beach has 2,381 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
2,381
0.2% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
899
Family households
1,482
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 899 37.8% -6.1%
Family households 1,482 62.2% 4.4%
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 Sunset Beach

The housing landscape of Sunset Beach

Sunset Beach's housing consists of 5,238 units, with 54.8% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 4.3% 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 9.9% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
5,238
0.3% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 2,869 54.8%
1 unit, attached 226 4.3%
2 units 64 1.2%
3 or 4 units 342 6.5%
5 to 9 units 639 12.2%
10 to 19 units 266 5.1%
20 to 49 units 56 1.1%
50 or more units 257 4.9%
Mobile home 519 9.9%
Homes built since 2020
126
223.1% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Sunset Beach

In Sunset Beach, the median construction year is 2000. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 35.6% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 10.9% between 2010 and 2019, and 2.4% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 11 0.2% 0.0%
Built between 1960 and 1969 35 0.7% -28.6%
Built between 1970 and 1979 422 8.1% -8.9%
Built between 1980 and 1989 772 14.7% -3.4%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,437 27.4% -9.4%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,866 35.6% 12.1%
Built between 2010 and 2019 569 10.9% -6.6%
Built in 2020 or later 126 2.4% 223.1%
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.

Sunset Beach occupancy rates

Out of the 2,381 occupied housing units in Sunset Beach, 86.4% are owner-occupied, while 13.6% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 54.5% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
2,381
0.2% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
324
Owner occupied
2,057
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 324 13.6% 8.0%
Owner occupied 2,057 86.4% -1.0%
Unoccupied housing units
54.5%
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.

Sunset Beach housing costs

Housing costs in Sunset Beach come to a median of $909 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $537.

Median housing costs per month
$909/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 Sunset Beach
$537/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 Sunset Beach

Sunset Beach education at a glance

About 28.1% of the population in Sunset Beach went to high school, while 21.7% pursued college studies. Another 10.4% earned an associate degree and 25.4% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 14.2% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 12 0.3% N/A
High school diploma 1,178 28.1% -7.8%
College diploma 909 21.7% -2.4%
Associate degree 436 10.4% 23.5%
Bachelor's degree 1,066 25.4% -3.5%
Graduate degree 594 14.2% 10.0%
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 Sunset Beach

How much people earn in Sunset Beach

The average annual household income in Sunset Beach was $100,611 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +1.1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $81,976, reflecting a -3.5% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Sunset Beach
$100,611/year
1.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in Sunset Beach
$81,976/year
-3.5% year-over-year change

Sunset Beach income by age

In Sunset Beach, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $90,278. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $103,330 overall. Overall, 94.2% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $90,278 N/A
45 - 64 $103,330 1.5%
Over 65 $71,086 14.7%
Above poverty level
4,101
Below poverty level
250
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 4,101 94.2% 0.9%
Below poverty level 250 5.8% -3.9%

Employment in Sunset Beach

Workforce and job types in Sunset Beach

The job market in Sunset Beach is powered by 1,385 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 89.9% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 10.1% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 18.6% run their own businesses, 59.1% are employed by private companies, and 16% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
1,385
-6.3% year-over-year change
White collar
1,245
Blue collar
140
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 1,245 89.9% -5.5%
Blue collar 140 10.1% -12.5%
Employer type
Self employees
18.6%
Private companies
59.1%
Governmental workers
16%
Not for profit companies
6.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 258 18.6% 9.8%
Private companies 819 59.1% -8.4%
Governmental workers 222 16% -14.9%
Not for profit companies 86 6.2% -2.3%
Unemployment rate
0.7%
-67.7% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Sunset Beach stands at 0.7%, 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 Sunset Beach

How people get around in Sunset Beach

Commuting methods vary: 75.4% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.3% 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 1,007 75.4% -10.4%
Walk 31 2.3% 93.8%
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 Sunset Beach by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
28467 13,313 6,917 $75,341 $87,989
28468 5,154 2,642 $83,358 $102,986

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FAQs about Sunset Beach demographics 

What is the total population of Sunset Beach?

Sunset Beach has a total population of 4,351 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 Sunset Beach?

The gender ratio in Sunset Beach is as follows:
  • 40.4% males (1,760 residents)
  • 59.6% females (2,591 residents)

What is the median age in Sunset Beach?

The median age in Sunset Beach is 69.1.

What is the age distribution of the population in Sunset Beach?

The age distribution in Sunset Beach is as follows:
  • Under 15: 2.3% (100 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 2.3% (101 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 9.2% (401 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 26.4% (1,150 residents)
  • Over 65: 59.7% (2,599 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Sunset Beach?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Sunset Beach is as follows:
  • White: 94.2% (4,098 residents)
  • Black or African American: 2% (85 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% (0 residents)
  • Asian: 0.2% (7 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 2.8% (124 residents)
  • Other: 0.8% (37 residents)

What percentage of the population in Sunset Beach are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 96.4% of the population in Sunset Beach.

How many housing units are there in Sunset Beach?

There are 5,238 housing units in Sunset Beach, 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 Sunset Beach and what is the average household size?

Sunset Beach has a total of 2,381 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Sunset Beach?

Sunset Beach has a median household income of $81,976, representing a -3.5% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Sunset Beach?

The employment rate is 99.3% in Sunset Beach, with a workforce of 1,385 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 89.9% (1,245 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 10.1% (140 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 18.6% (258 residents)
  • Private companies: 59.1% (819 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 16% (222 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 6.2% (86 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