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

Total population
18,797
0.7% year-over-year change
Median household income
$58,709/yr
6.8% year-over-year change
Housing units
11,376
0.5% year-over-year change

Yancey County population

How many people live in Yancey County

Yancey County is home to 18,797 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.3% of Yancey County locals are male, and 50.7% are female.

Total population
18,797
0.7% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.3%
9,268
Female
50.7%
9,529
Value Percent YoY change
Male 9,268 49.3% 0.3%
Female 9,529 50.7% 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 Yancey County is 49, with the population distributed as follows: about 14.8% are children under 15, then 9.1% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 21.3% of the population, while another 27.8% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 27% are 65 or older.

Median age
49.2
Age breakdown
Under 15
14.8%
15 to 24
9.1%
25 to 44
21.3%
45 to 64
27.8%
Over 65
27%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 2,780 14.8% -2.0%
15 to 24 1,716 9.1% -4.0%
25 to 44 4,000 21.3% 0.7%
45 to 64 5,216 27.8% 1.7%
Over 65 5,085 27% 2.8%
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 Yancey County, 96.4% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.9% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.8% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 92.1% of locals are Caucasian, 0.8% are African American and 0.5% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 3.8% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
96.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.9%
Non-citizens
1.8%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 18,111 96.4% 0.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 351 1.9% 56.0%
Non-citizens 335 1.8% -16.9%
Racial breakdown
White
92.1%
Black or African American
0.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
0.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
3.8%
Other
2.6%
Value Percent
White 17,315 92.1%
Black or African American 157 0.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native 38 0.2%
Asian 86 0.5%
Two or more races 720 3.8%
Other 481 2.6%

Households in Yancey County

A peek inside Yancey County households

Yancey County has 8,130 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 68.7% are families, while the remaining 31.3% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
8,130
-0.7% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
2,542
Family households
5,588
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 2,542 31.3% -2.5%
Family households 5,588 68.7% 0.1%
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 Yancey County

The housing landscape of Yancey County

Yancey County's housing consists of 11,376 units, with 73.6% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1% 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 17.3% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
11,376
0.5% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 8,377 73.6%
1 unit, attached 118 1%
2 units 117 1%
3 or 4 units 350 3.1%
5 to 9 units 187 1.6%
10 to 19 units 102 0.9%
20 to 49 units 139 1.2%
50 or more units 11 0.1%
Mobile home 1,964 17.3%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 11 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
115
134.7% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Yancey County

In Yancey County, the median construction year is 1988. About 7.2% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5.4% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 17.5% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 8.1% between 2010 and 2019, and 1% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 814 7.2% -6.3%
Built between 1940 and 1949 619 5.4% 9.9%
Built between 1950 and 1959 360 3.2% -25.0%
Built between 1960 and 1969 862 7.6% -6.2%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,418 12.5% -0.1%
Built between 1980 and 1989 2,049 18% 1.6%
Built between 1990 and 1999 2,229 19.6% -1.1%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,986 17.5% 5.5%
Built between 2010 and 2019 924 8.1% 6.9%
Built in 2020 or later 115 1% 134.7%
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.

Yancey County occupancy rates

Out of the 8,130 occupied housing units in Yancey County, 79.4% are owner-occupied, while 20.6% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 28.5% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
8,130
-0.7% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,673
Owner occupied
6,457
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,673 20.6% -10.2%
Owner occupied 6,457 79.4% 2.1%
Unoccupied housing units
28.5%
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.

Yancey County housing costs

Housing costs in Yancey County come to a median of $730 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $882.

Median housing costs per month
$730/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 Yancey County
$882/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 Yancey County

Yancey County education at a glance

About 41.7% of the population in Yancey County went to high school, while 19% pursued college studies. Another 11.8% earned an associate degree and 15.9% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 7.7% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 610 4% -18.1%
High school diploma 6,428 41.7% -2.4%
College diploma 2,931 19% -4.2%
Associate degree 1,817 11.8% 16.8%
Bachelor's degree 2,449 15.9% 12.3%
Graduate degree 1,183 7.7% 7.0%
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 Yancey County

How much people earn in Yancey County

The average annual household income in Yancey County was $83,965 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +6.3% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $58,709, reflecting a +6.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Yancey County
$83,965/year
6.3% year-over-year change
Median household income in Yancey County
$58,709/year
6.8% year-over-year change

Yancey County income by age

In Yancey County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $82,582. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $78,483 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $42,500, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $43,201 in earnings. Overall, 84.7% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $42,500 17.1%
25 - 44 $82,582 13.0%
45 - 64 $78,483 12.8%
Over 65 $43,201 4.3%
Above poverty level
15,734
Below poverty level
2,833
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 15,734 84.7% 0.8%
Below poverty level 2,833 15.3% 2.5%

Employment in Yancey County

Workforce and job types in Yancey County

The job market in Yancey County is powered by 7,942 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 66.1% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 33.9% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 16.1% run their own businesses, 60% are employed by private companies, and 16.7% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
7,942
4.8% year-over-year change
White collar
5,253
Blue collar
2,689
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 5,253 66.1% 3.3%
Blue collar 2,689 33.9% 7.9%
Employer type
Self employees
16.1%
Private companies
60%
Governmental workers
16.7%
Not for profit companies
7.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,279 16.1% -1.4%
Private companies 4,761 60% 6.5%
Governmental workers 1,325 16.7% 4.8%
Not for profit companies 577 7.3% 5.3%
Unemployment rate
7.3%
28.1% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Yancey County stands at 7.3%, 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 Yancey County

How people get around in Yancey County

Commuting methods vary: 85.6% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.5% 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 6,647 85.6% 1.2%
Bus or trolleybus 6 0.1% -33.3%
Walk 118 1.5% 14.6%
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 Yancey County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
28714 16,397 6,962 $58,998 $85,136
28740 2,158 1,038 $48,214 $73,216

Explore more communities

FAQs about Yancey County demographics 

What is the total population of Yancey County?

Yancey County has a total population of 18,797 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 +0.7% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Yancey County?

The gender ratio in Yancey County is as follows:
  • 49.3% males (9,268 residents)
  • 50.7% females (9,529 residents)

What is the median age in Yancey County?

The median age in Yancey County is 49.2.

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

The age distribution in Yancey County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 14.8% (2,780 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 9.1% (1,716 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 21.3% (4,000 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 27.8% (5,216 residents)
  • Over 65: 27% (5,085 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Yancey County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Yancey County is as follows:
  • White: 92.1% (17,315 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.8% (157 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (38 residents)
  • Asian: 0.5% (86 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 3.8% (720 residents)
  • Other: 2.6% (481 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 96.4% of the population in Yancey County.

How many housing units are there in Yancey County?

There are 11,376 housing units in Yancey County, reflecting a +0.5% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Yancey County has a total of 8,130 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Yancey County?

Yancey County has a median household income of $58,709, representing a +6.8% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 92.7% in Yancey County, with a workforce of 7,942 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 66.1% (5,253 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 33.9% (2,689 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 16.1% (1,279 residents)
  • Private companies: 60% (4,761 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 16.7% (1,325 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7.3% (577 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