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

Total population
118,652
0.9% year-over-year change
Median household income
$59,733/yr
2.8% year-over-year change
Housing units
53,505
0.7% year-over-year change

Wayne County population

How many people live in Wayne County

Wayne County is home to 118,652 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.8% of Wayne County locals are male, and 50.2% are female.

Total population
118,652
0.9% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.8%
59,094
Female
50.2%
59,558
Value Percent YoY change
Male 59,094 49.8% 1.1%
Female 59,558 50.2% 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 Wayne County is 37, with the population distributed as follows: about 19.6% are children under 15, then 13.7% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 25.4% of the population, while another 24.2% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 17.1% are 65 or older.

Median age
37.3
Age breakdown
Under 15
19.6%
15 to 24
13.7%
25 to 44
25.4%
45 to 64
24.2%
Over 65
17.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 23,242 19.6% 0.2%
15 to 24 16,288 13.7% 1.9%
25 to 44 30,168 25.4% 1.7%
45 to 64 28,692 24.2% -1.3%
Over 65 20,262 17.1% 2.9%
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 Wayne County, 90.6% of the population are US-born citizens, while 3.7% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 5.8% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 51.4% of locals are Caucasian, 29.8% are African American and 1.2% have Asian roots. Another 0.1% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 2.7% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 14.8% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
90.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
3.7%
Non-citizens
5.8%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 107,469 90.6% 0.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 4,341 3.7% -10.2%
Non-citizens 6,842 5.8% 22.5%
Racial breakdown
White
51.4%
Black or African American
29.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.1%
Asian
1.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
14.8%
Other
2.7%
Value Percent
White 60,942 51.4%
Black or African American 35,324 29.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native 112 0.1%
Asian 1,430 1.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 110 0.1%
Two or more races 17,522 14.8%
Other 3,212 2.7%

Households in Wayne County

A peek inside Wayne County households

Wayne County has 47,507 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 66.7% are families, while the remaining 33.3% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
47,507
1.3% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
15,820
Family households
31,687
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 15,820 33.3% -1.3%
Family households 31,687 66.7% 2.7%
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 Wayne County

The housing landscape of Wayne County

Wayne County's housing consists of 53,505 units, with 60.2% 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 23% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
53,505
0.7% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 32,217 60.2%
1 unit, attached 1,249 2.3%
2 units 1,938 3.6%
3 or 4 units 1,761 3.3%
5 to 9 units 1,813 3.4%
10 to 19 units 562 1%
20 to 49 units 907 1.7%
50 or more units 634 1.2%
Mobile home 12,328 23%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 96 0.2%
Homes built since 2020
915
109.9% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Wayne County

In Wayne County, the median construction year is 1984. About 5.3% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 3.3% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 14.6% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 7.4% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.7% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 2,816 5.3% -7.5%
Built between 1940 and 1949 1,758 3.3% -7.1%
Built between 1950 and 1959 3,999 7.5% 4.3%
Built between 1960 and 1969 6,175 11.5% -2.4%
Built between 1970 and 1979 8,982 16.8% 2.5%
Built between 1980 and 1989 7,870 14.7% 1.0%
Built between 1990 and 1999 9,201 17.2% -6.1%
Built between 2000 and 2009 7,824 14.6% 2.9%
Built between 2010 and 2019 3,965 7.4% 8.8%
Built in 2020 or later 915 1.7% 109.9%
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.

Wayne County occupancy rates

Out of the 47,507 occupied housing units in Wayne County, 61.4% are owner-occupied, while 38.6% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 11.2% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
47,507
1.3% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
18,312
Owner occupied
29,195
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 18,312 38.6% 1.5%
Owner occupied 29,195 61.4% 1.2%
Unoccupied housing units
11.2%
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.

Wayne County housing costs

Housing costs in Wayne County come to a median of $946 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $965.

Median housing costs per month
$946/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 Wayne County
$965/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 Wayne County

Wayne County education at a glance

About 38.9% of the population in Wayne County went to high school, while 24.2% pursued college studies. Another 11.8% earned an associate degree and 13.8% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 5.8% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 4,892 5.4% 5.1%
High school diploma 35,295 38.9% 0.0%
College diploma 21,977 24.2% -1.1%
Associate degree 10,681 11.8% 4.5%
Bachelor's degree 12,557 13.8% 3.7%
Graduate degree 5,236 5.8% 0.5%
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 Wayne County

How much people earn in Wayne County

The average annual household income in Wayne County was $79,980 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +3.6% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $59,733, reflecting a +2.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Wayne County
$79,980/year
3.6% year-over-year change
Median household income in Wayne County
$59,733/year
2.8% year-over-year change

Wayne County income by age

In Wayne County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $64,219. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $67,194 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $40,865, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $51,274 in earnings. Overall, 82.8% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $40,865 -5.8%
25 - 44 $64,219 6.7%
45 - 64 $67,194 -0.1%
Over 65 $51,274 5.8%
Above poverty level
94,842
Below poverty level
19,738
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 94,842 82.8% 0.2%
Below poverty level 19,738 17.2% 3.4%

Employment in Wayne County

Workforce and job types in Wayne County

The job market in Wayne County is powered by 51,120 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 69.3% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 30.7% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 7% run their own businesses, 68.1% are employed by private companies, and 19.7% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
51,120
2.4% year-over-year change
White collar
35,415
Blue collar
15,705
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 35,415 69.3% 1.8%
Blue collar 15,705 30.7% 3.9%
Employer type
Self employees
7%
Private companies
68.1%
Governmental workers
19.7%
Not for profit companies
5.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 3,600 7% 4.2%
Private companies 34,811 68.1% 3.1%
Governmental workers 10,080 19.7% -1.5%
Not for profit companies 2,629 5.1% 7.3%
Unemployment rate
5.2%
-1.6% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Wayne County stands at 5.2%, 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 Wayne County

How people get around in Wayne County

In Wayne County, the average commute time is 23 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 92.6% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 0.7% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
23 min
0.0% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 49,433 92.6% 0.2%
Bus or trolleybus 161 0.3% -27.8%
Motorcycle 34 0.1% 41.7%
Bicycle 109 0.2% 25.3%
Walk 378 0.7% 2.7%
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 Wayne County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
28365 15,999 6,190 $52,174 $72,890
28333 10,534 3,515 $50,188 $80,029
28551 14,078 5,478 $49,092 $64,355
27530 37,634 15,976 $54,504 $74,762
27531 555 16 $0 $0
27534 30,415 13,560 $62,574 $87,115
27830 4,006 1,683 $54,129 $67,725
27863 13,729 4,927 $77,933 $87,387
27883 4,128 1,531 $61,185 $74,802
27569 8,833 3,251 $78,850 $94,325

Find your place

Explore more communities

FAQs about Wayne County demographics 

What is the total population of Wayne County?

Wayne County has a total population of 118,652 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 Wayne County?

The gender ratio in Wayne County is as follows:
  • 49.8% males (59,094 residents)
  • 50.2% females (59,558 residents)

What is the median age in Wayne County?

The median age in Wayne County is 37.3.

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

The age distribution in Wayne County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 19.6% (23,242 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 13.7% (16,288 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 25.4% (30,168 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 24.2% (28,692 residents)
  • Over 65: 17.1% (20,262 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Wayne County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Wayne County is as follows:
  • White: 51.4% (60,942 residents)
  • Black or African American: 29.8% (35,324 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.1% (112 residents)
  • Asian: 1.2% (1,430 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (110 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 14.8% (17,522 residents)
  • Other: 2.7% (3,212 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 90.6% of the population in Wayne County.

How many housing units are there in Wayne County?

There are 53,505 housing units in Wayne 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 Wayne County and what is the average household size?

Wayne County has a total of 47,507 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Wayne County?

Wayne County has a median household income of $59,733, representing a +2.8% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 94.8% in Wayne County, with a workforce of 51,120 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 69.3% (35,415 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 30.7% (15,705 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 7% (3,600 residents)
  • Private companies: 68.1% (34,811 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 19.7% (10,080 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 5.1% (2,629 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