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

Total population
55,123
0.9% year-over-year change
Median household income
$51,693/yr
0.6% year-over-year change
Housing units
33,355
1.0% year-over-year change

Watauga County population

How many people live in Watauga County

Watauga County is home to 55,123 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.9% of Watauga County locals are male, and 50.1% are female.

Total population
55,123
0.9% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.9%
27,491
Female
50.1%
27,632
Value Percent YoY change
Male 27,491 49.9% 0.9%
Female 27,632 50.1% 1.0%
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 Watauga County is 31, with the population distributed as follows: about 9.8% are children under 15, then 33.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 19% of the population, while another 20.3% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 17.1% are 65 or older.

Median age
31.4
Age breakdown
Under 15
9.8%
15 to 24
33.8%
25 to 44
19%
45 to 64
20.3%
Over 65
17.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 5,412 9.8% -1.8%
15 to 24 18,602 33.8% 3.9%
25 to 44 10,481 19% -1.8%
45 to 64 11,193 20.3% -1.6%
Over 65 9,435 17.1% 3.2%
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 Watauga County, 95.7% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.2% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 2.1% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 89.8% of locals are Caucasian, 2% are African American and 0.9% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 5.6% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
95.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.2%
Non-citizens
2.1%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 52,773 95.7% 1.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 1,188 2.2% 11.0%
Non-citizens 1,162 2.1% -11.6%
Racial breakdown
White
89.8%
Black or African American
2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.3%
Asian
0.9%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
5.6%
Other
1.4%
Value Percent
White 49,473 89.8%
Black or African American 1,112 2%
American Indian and Alaska Native 168 0.3%
Asian 487 0.9%
Two or more races 3,086 5.6%
Other 797 1.4%

Households in Watauga County

A peek inside Watauga County households

Watauga County has 21,198 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 51.1% are families, while the remaining 48.9% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
21,198
0.1% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
10,359
Family households
10,839
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 10,359 48.9% -0.8%
Family households 10,839 51.1% 0.9%
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 Watauga County

The housing landscape of Watauga County

Watauga County's housing consists of 33,355 units, with 63.6% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 2.3% 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 7.8% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
33,355
1.0% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 21,202 63.6%
1 unit, attached 753 2.3%
2 units 1,390 4.2%
3 or 4 units 1,288 3.9%
5 to 9 units 2,481 7.4%
10 to 19 units 1,603 4.8%
20 to 49 units 1,205 3.6%
50 or more units 784 2.4%
Mobile home 2,604 7.8%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 45 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
293
55.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Watauga County

In Watauga County, the median construction year is 1988. About 3.4% 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, 18.4% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 8.6% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.9% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,145 3.4% -10.3%
Built between 1940 and 1949 920 2.8% 32.6%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,486 4.5% -1.5%
Built between 1960 and 1969 3,349 10% 7.3%
Built between 1970 and 1979 4,987 15% -7.8%
Built between 1980 and 1989 5,949 17.8% -1.6%
Built between 1990 and 1999 6,223 18.7% -2.1%
Built between 2000 and 2009 6,132 18.4% 5.7%
Built between 2010 and 2019 2,871 8.6% 9.2%
Built in 2020 or later 293 0.9% 55.0%
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.

Watauga County occupancy rates

Out of the 21,198 occupied housing units in Watauga County, 62.1% are owner-occupied, while 37.9% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 36.4% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
21,198
0.1% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
8,041
Owner occupied
13,157
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 8,041 37.9% -2.2%
Owner occupied 13,157 62.1% 1.5%
Unoccupied housing units
36.4%
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.

Watauga County housing costs

Housing costs in Watauga County come to a median of $1,046 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,127.

Median housing costs per month
$1,046/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 Watauga County
$1,127/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 Watauga County

Watauga County education at a glance

About 23.4% of the population in Watauga County went to high school, while 32.8% pursued college studies. Another 7.3% earned an associate degree and 20.4% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 14.4% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 819 1.7% -13.0%
High school diploma 11,351 23.4% 3.1%
College diploma 15,900 32.8% -0.5%
Associate degree 3,544 7.3% 10.3%
Bachelor's degree 9,878 20.4% 1.9%
Graduate degree 6,955 14.4% -0.8%
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 Watauga County

How much people earn in Watauga County

The average annual household income in Watauga County was $83,665 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +5.9% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $51,693, reflecting a +0.6% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Watauga County
$83,665/year
5.9% year-over-year change
Median household income in Watauga County
$51,693/year
0.6% year-over-year change

Watauga County income by age

In Watauga County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $66,338. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $70,086 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $16,310, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $55,984 in earnings. Overall, 74.5% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $16,310 1.3%
25 - 44 $66,338 0.1%
45 - 64 $70,086 -2.6%
Over 65 $55,984 0.0%
Above poverty level
36,079
Below poverty level
12,324
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 36,079 74.5% -0.8%
Below poverty level 12,324 25.5% 3.2%

Employment in Watauga County

Workforce and job types in Watauga County

The job market in Watauga County is powered by 26,768 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 83.4% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 16.6% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 14.3% run their own businesses, 57.7% are employed by private companies, and 18.9% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
26,768
0.5% year-over-year change
White collar
22,326
Blue collar
4,442
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 22,326 83.4% 1.4%
Blue collar 4,442 16.6% -3.6%
Employer type
Self employees
14.3%
Private companies
57.7%
Governmental workers
18.9%
Not for profit companies
9%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 3,831 14.3% 8.1%
Private companies 15,452 57.7% 2.5%
Governmental workers 5,065 18.9% -4.9%
Not for profit companies 2,420 9% -9.6%
Unemployment rate
7.9%
-12.8% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Watauga County stands at 7.9%, 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 Watauga County

How people get around in Watauga County

Commuting methods vary: 82.4% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 4.8% 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 21,145 82.4% -2.8%
Bus or trolleybus 398 1.6% 32.7%
Ferryboat 45 0.2% N/A
Bicycle 14 0% -12.5%
Walk 1,222 4.8% 23.3%
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 Watauga County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
28604 7,869 3,236 $76,319 $109,394
28605 3,883 1,691 $76,477 $123,246
28607 35,679 12,583 $46,639 $77,971
28618 2,208 837 $59,653 $84,149
28679 2,454 952 $65,246 $86,778
28684 1,961 870 $69,307 $88,987
28692 4,367 2,228 $43,103 $80,050
28698 2,320 966 $54,402 $70,777

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FAQs about Watauga County demographics 

What is the total population of Watauga County?

Watauga County has a total population of 55,123 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 +0.9% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Watauga County?

The gender ratio in Watauga County is as follows:
  • 49.9% males (27,491 residents)
  • 50.1% females (27,632 residents)

What is the median age in Watauga County?

The median age in Watauga County is 31.4.

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

The age distribution in Watauga County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 9.8% (5,412 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 33.8% (18,602 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 19% (10,481 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 20.3% (11,193 residents)
  • Over 65: 17.1% (9,435 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Watauga County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Watauga County is as follows:
  • White: 89.8% (49,473 residents)
  • Black or African American: 2% (1,112 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.3% (168 residents)
  • Asian: 0.9% (487 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 5.6% (3,086 residents)
  • Other: 1.4% (797 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 95.7% of the population in Watauga County.

How many housing units are there in Watauga County?

There are 33,355 housing units in Watauga County, reflecting a +1.0% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Watauga County has a total of 21,198 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Watauga County?

Watauga County has a median household income of $51,693, representing a +0.6% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 92.1% in Watauga County, with a workforce of 26,768 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 83.4% (22,326 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 16.6% (4,442 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 14.3% (3,831 residents)
  • Private companies: 57.7% (15,452 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 18.9% (5,065 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 9% (2,420 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