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

Total population
33,691
1.4% year-over-year change
Median household income
$66,184/yr
2.6% year-over-year change
Housing units
19,266
0.6% year-over-year change

Transylvania County population

How many people live in Transylvania County

Transylvania County is home to 33,691 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.5% of Transylvania County locals are male, and 51.5% are female.

Total population
33,691
1.4% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.5%
16,342
Female
51.5%
17,349
Value Percent YoY change
Male 16,342 48.5% 1.5%
Female 17,349 51.5% 1.2%
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 Transylvania County is 52, with the population distributed as follows: about 12.6% are children under 15, then 10.5% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 20% of the population, while another 26% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 31% are 65 or older.

Median age
51.6
Age breakdown
Under 15
12.6%
15 to 24
10.5%
25 to 44
20%
45 to 64
26%
Over 65
31%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 4,227 12.6% -1.0%
15 to 24 3,547 10.5% 3.1%
25 to 44 6,734 20% 2.2%
45 to 64 8,757 26% 0.7%
Over 65 10,426 31% 1.8%
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 Transylvania County, 95.3% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.2% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 2.5% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 88.4% of locals are Caucasian, 3.6% are African American and 0.7% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 6.3% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
95.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.2%
Non-citizens
2.5%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 32,105 95.3% 0.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 746 2.2% 9.4%
Non-citizens 840 2.5% 13.7%
Racial breakdown
White
88.4%
Black or African American
3.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
0.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
6.3%
Other
0.9%
Value Percent
White 29,769 88.4%
Black or African American 1,207 3.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 60 0.2%
Asian 229 0.7%
Two or more races 2,110 6.3%
Other 316 0.9%

Households in Transylvania County

A peek inside Transylvania County households

Transylvania County has 14,584 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 63.1% are families, while the remaining 36.9% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
14,584
-0.0% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
5,376
Family households
9,208
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 5,376 36.9% 4.0%
Family households 9,208 63.1% -2.2%
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 Transylvania County

The housing landscape of Transylvania County

Transylvania County's housing consists of 19,266 units, with 75.2% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1.5% 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 13% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
19,266
0.6% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 14,486 75.2%
1 unit, attached 284 1.5%
2 units 246 1.3%
3 or 4 units 601 3.1%
5 to 9 units 449 2.3%
10 to 19 units 45 0.2%
20 to 49 units 285 1.5%
50 or more units 271 1.4%
Mobile home 2,498 13%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 101 0.5%
Homes built since 2020
242
84.7% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Transylvania County

In Transylvania County, the median construction year is 1984. About 5.2% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 4.5% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 14.4% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 5.9% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.3% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,010 5.2% 0.8%
Built between 1940 and 1949 865 4.5% -15.7%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,380 7.2% 17.2%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,820 9.4% -8.0%
Built between 1970 and 1979 3,022 15.7% -8.3%
Built between 1980 and 1989 3,490 18.1% 6.4%
Built between 1990 and 1999 3,537 18.4% 11.7%
Built between 2000 and 2009 2,767 14.4% -9.5%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,133 5.9% 9.5%
Built in 2020 or later 242 1.3% 84.7%
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.

Transylvania County occupancy rates

Out of the 14,584 occupied housing units in Transylvania County, 74.7% are owner-occupied, while 25.3% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 24.3% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
14,584
-0.0% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
3,695
Owner occupied
10,889
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 3,695 25.3% 1.8%
Owner occupied 10,889 74.7% -0.7%
Unoccupied housing units
24.3%
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.

Transylvania County housing costs

Housing costs in Transylvania County come to a median of $883 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $967.

Median housing costs per month
$883/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 Transylvania County
$967/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 Transylvania County

Transylvania County education at a glance

About 29.4% of the population in Transylvania County went to high school, while 22.3% pursued college studies. Another 9.6% earned an associate degree and 23.1% 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 405 1.4% -20.1%
High school diploma 8,351 29.4% 2.6%
College diploma 6,344 22.3% -7.0%
Associate degree 2,718 9.6% 7.9%
Bachelor's degree 6,577 23.1% 5.3%
Graduate degree 4,023 14.2% 7.1%
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 Transylvania County

How much people earn in Transylvania County

The average annual household income in Transylvania County was $88,954 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +3.2% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $66,184, reflecting a +2.6% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Transylvania County
$88,954/year
3.2% year-over-year change
Median household income in Transylvania County
$66,184/year
2.6% year-over-year change

Transylvania County income by age

In Transylvania County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $67,188. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $76,142 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $57,016, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $62,218 in earnings. Overall, 86.9% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $57,016 5.6%
25 - 44 $67,188 5.1%
45 - 64 $76,142 -4.9%
Over 65 $62,218 3.3%
Above poverty level
28,096
Below poverty level
4,224
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 28,096 86.9% 2.3%
Below poverty level 4,224 13.1% -5.3%

Employment in Transylvania County

Workforce and job types in Transylvania County

The job market in Transylvania County is powered by 13,811 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 79.8% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 20.2% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 12.8% run their own businesses, 63.4% are employed by private companies, and 13.1% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
13,811
-3.5% year-over-year change
White collar
11,025
Blue collar
2,786
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 11,025 79.8% -3.4%
Blue collar 2,786 20.2% -4.1%
Employer type
Self employees
12.8%
Private companies
63.4%
Governmental workers
13.1%
Not for profit companies
10.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,769 12.8% -18.6%
Private companies 8,751 63.4% -0.1%
Governmental workers 1,813 13.1% 1.6%
Not for profit companies 1,478 10.7% -7.6%
Unemployment rate
2.8%
-26.2% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Transylvania County stands at 2.8%, 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 Transylvania County

How people get around in Transylvania County

Commuting methods vary: 84.6% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2% 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 11,172 84.6% -3.8%
Ferryboat 8 0.1% -50.0%
Bicycle 63 0.5% -35.0%
Walk 267 2% -12.8%
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 Transylvania County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
28708 456 174 $70,435 $80,175
28712 19,977 8,983 $63,045 $89,248
28718 654 315 $74,031 $85,290
28747 2,021 830 $66,000 $93,848
28766 1,259 552 $57,708 $65,144
28768 6,759 2,736 $71,383 $84,696
28772 1,375 580 $74,583 $81,384
28774 1,451 703 $154,635 $187,172

Find your place

Explore more communities

FAQs about Transylvania County demographics 

What is the total population of Transylvania County?

Transylvania County has a total population of 33,691 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 +1.4% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Transylvania County?

The gender ratio in Transylvania County is as follows:
  • 48.5% males (16,342 residents)
  • 51.5% females (17,349 residents)

What is the median age in Transylvania County?

The median age in Transylvania County is 51.6.

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

The age distribution in Transylvania County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 12.6% (4,227 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 10.5% (3,547 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 20% (6,734 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 26% (8,757 residents)
  • Over 65: 31% (10,426 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Transylvania County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Transylvania County is as follows:
  • White: 88.4% (29,769 residents)
  • Black or African American: 3.6% (1,207 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (60 residents)
  • Asian: 0.7% (229 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 6.3% (2,110 residents)
  • Other: 0.9% (316 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 95.3% of the population in Transylvania County.

How many housing units are there in Transylvania County?

There are 19,266 housing units in Transylvania County, reflecting a +0.6% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Transylvania County has a total of 14,584 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Transylvania County?

Transylvania County has a median household income of $66,184, representing a +2.6% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 97.2% in Transylvania County, with a workforce of 13,811 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 79.8% (11,025 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 20.2% (2,786 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 12.8% (1,769 residents)
  • Private companies: 63.4% (8,751 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 13.1% (1,813 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 10.7% (1,478 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