Valdese, NC demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
4,704
0.3% year-over-year change
Median household income
$50,740/yr
-17.2% year-over-year change
Housing units
2,427
3.9% year-over-year change

Valdese population

How many people live in Valdese

Valdese is home to 4,704 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 44.3% of Valdese locals are male, and 55.7% are female.

Total population
4,704
0.3% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
44.3%
2,082
Female
55.7%
2,622
Value Percent YoY change
Male 2,082 44.3% -4.7%
Female 2,622 55.7% 4.7%
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 Valdese is 53, with the population distributed as follows: about 15% are children under 15, then 7.5% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 20.3% of the population, while another 31.6% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 25.7% are 65 or older.

Median age
52.6
Age breakdown
Under 15
15%
15 to 24
7.5%
25 to 44
20.3%
45 to 64
31.6%
Over 65
25.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 704 15% 7.7%
15 to 24 354 7.5% -21.9%
25 to 44 954 20.3% 3.4%
45 to 64 1,485 31.6% 3.9%
Over 65 1,207 25.7% -1.9%
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 Valdese, 94% of the population are US-born citizens, while 5.7% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.3% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 88% of locals are Caucasian, 3.2% are African American and 3.1% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 2.2% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
94%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
5.7%
Non-citizens
0.3%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 4,420 94% 0.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 268 5.7% -6.6%
Non-citizens 16 0.3% N/A
Racial breakdown
White
88%
Black or African American
3.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
3.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
2.2%
Other
3.5%
Value Percent
White 4,138 88%
Black or African American 153 3.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native 2 0%
Asian 144 3.1%
Two or more races 102 2.2%
Other 165 3.5%

Households in Valdese

A peek inside Valdese households

Valdese has 2,378 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 53.7% are families, while the remaining 46.3% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
2,378
9.4% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
1,101
Family households
1,277
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,101 46.3% 37.5%
Family households 1,277 53.7% -7.0%
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 Valdese

The housing landscape of Valdese

Valdese's housing consists of 2,427 units, with 73.4% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 2.4% 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 3.9% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
2,427
3.9% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 1,782 73.4%
1 unit, attached 59 2.4%
2 units 120 4.9%
3 or 4 units 99 4.1%
5 to 9 units 102 4.2%
10 to 19 units 30 1.2%
20 to 49 units 68 2.8%
50 or more units 72 3%
Mobile home 95 3.9%
Homes built since 2020
72
300.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Valdese

In Valdese, the median construction year is 1968. About 14.9% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 10.6% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 9.2% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 0.3% between 2010 and 2019, and 3% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 361 14.9% 13.5%
Built between 1940 and 1949 258 10.6% -11.9%
Built between 1950 and 1959 177 7.3% 43.9%
Built between 1960 and 1969 540 22.2% 9.3%
Built between 1970 and 1979 300 12.4% -12.5%
Built between 1980 and 1989 216 8.9% -8.5%
Built between 1990 and 1999 273 11.2% 13.3%
Built between 2000 and 2009 222 9.2% 22.6%
Built between 2010 and 2019 8 0.3% -90.9%
Built in 2020 or later 72 3% 300.0%
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.

Valdese occupancy rates

Out of the 2,378 occupied housing units in Valdese, 72.9% are owner-occupied, while 27.1% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 2% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
2,378
9.4% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
645
Owner occupied
1,733
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 645 27.1% 23.6%
Owner occupied 1,733 72.9% 4.9%
Unoccupied housing units
2.0%
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.

Valdese housing costs

Housing costs in Valdese come to a median of $653 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $665.

Median housing costs per month
$653/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 Valdese
$665/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 Valdese

Valdese education at a glance

About 32.4% of the population in Valdese went to high school, while 19.2% pursued college studies. Another 11.2% earned an associate degree and 22.2% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 13.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 56 1.4% 300.0%
High school diploma 1,251 32.4% -20.1%
College diploma 741 19.2% 19.7%
Associate degree 430 11.2% 52.5%
Bachelor's degree 855 22.2% 8.4%
Graduate degree 524 13.6% -10.9%
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 Valdese

How much people earn in Valdese

The average annual household income in Valdese was $83,486 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -11% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $50,740, reflecting a -17.2% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Valdese
$83,486/year
-11.0% year-over-year change
Median household income in Valdese
$50,740/year
-17.2% year-over-year change

Valdese income by age

In Valdese, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $51,743. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $70,425 overall. Overall, 87.2% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $51,743 4.3%
45 - 64 $70,425 3.9%
Over 65 $33,491 -49.5%
Above poverty level
3,998
Below poverty level
588
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 3,998 87.2% -4.2%
Below poverty level 588 12.8% 46.6%

Average renter income in Valdese

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Valdese, their median household income was $23,259 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 34.3%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$23,259
Rent-to-income ratio
34.3%
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 Valdese

Workforce and job types in Valdese

The job market in Valdese is powered by 2,144 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 78.3% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 21.7% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 18.6% run their own businesses, 58.4% are employed by private companies, and 16.6% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
2,144
-2.8% year-over-year change
White collar
1,679
Blue collar
465
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 1,679 78.3% 7.0%
Blue collar 465 21.7% -27.0%
Employer type
Self employees
18.6%
Private companies
58.4%
Governmental workers
16.6%
Not for profit companies
6.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 398 18.6% 9.3%
Private companies 1,251 58.4% -8.6%
Governmental workers 356 16.6% -1.4%
Not for profit companies 139 6.5% 23.0%
Unemployment rate
5.8%
17.9% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Valdese stands at 5.8%, 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 Valdese

How people get around in Valdese

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 1,877 89.1% -3.0%
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 Valdese by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
28690 9,196 4,510 $67,000 $87,489

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FAQs about Valdese demographics 

What is the total population of Valdese?

Valdese has a total population of 4,704 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 +0.3% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Valdese?

The gender ratio in Valdese is as follows:
  • 44.3% males (2,082 residents)
  • 55.7% females (2,622 residents)

What is the median age in Valdese?

The median age in Valdese is 52.6.

What is the age distribution of the population in Valdese?

The age distribution in Valdese is as follows:
  • Under 15: 15% (704 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 7.5% (354 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 20.3% (954 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 31.6% (1,485 residents)
  • Over 65: 25.7% (1,207 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Valdese?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Valdese is as follows:
  • White: 88% (4,138 residents)
  • Black or African American: 3.2% (153 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% (2 residents)
  • Asian: 3.1% (144 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 2.2% (102 residents)
  • Other: 3.5% (165 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 94% of the population in Valdese.

How many housing units are there in Valdese?

There are 2,427 housing units in Valdese, reflecting a +3.9% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Valdese has a total of 2,378 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Valdese?

Valdese has a median household income of $50,740, representing a -17.2% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Valdese?

The employment rate is 94.2% in Valdese, with a workforce of 2,144 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 78.3% (1,679 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 21.7% (465 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 18.6% (398 residents)
  • Private companies: 58.4% (1,251 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 16.6% (356 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 6.5% (139 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