Zebulon, NC demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
8,711
9.4% year-over-year change
Median household income
$79,112/yr
34.2% year-over-year change
Housing units
3,474
8.7% year-over-year change

Zebulon population

How many people live in Zebulon

Zebulon is home to 8,711 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 47.1% of Zebulon locals are male, and 52.9% are female.

Total population
8,711
9.4% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
47.1%
4,104
Female
52.9%
4,607
Value Percent YoY change
Male 4,104 47.1% 12.6%
Female 4,607 52.9% 6.7%
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 Zebulon is 38, with the population distributed as follows: about 17.7% are children under 15, then 13.4% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 34.8% of the population, while another 21.2% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 12.9% are 65 or older.

Median age
38.3
Age breakdown
Under 15
17.7%
15 to 24
13.4%
25 to 44
34.8%
45 to 64
21.2%
Over 65
12.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 1,544 17.7% 2.9%
15 to 24 1,165 13.4% 7.0%
25 to 44 3,029 34.8% 3.9%
45 to 64 1,851 21.2% 32.3%
Over 65 1,122 12.9% 6.2%
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 Zebulon, 77.5% of the population are US-born citizens, while 7.5% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 15% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 30.4% of locals are Caucasian, 45.6% are African American and 0.4% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 11.6% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
77.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
7.5%
Non-citizens
15%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 6,748 77.5% 2.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 652 7.5% 37.5%
Non-citizens 1,311 15% 41.4%
Racial breakdown
White
30.4%
Black or African American
45.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.4%
Asian
0.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
11.6%
Other
11.7%
Value Percent
White 2,644 30.4%
Black or African American 3,968 45.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 34 0.4%
Asian 31 0.4%
Two or more races 1,013 11.6%
Other 1,021 11.7%

Households in Zebulon

A peek inside Zebulon households

Zebulon has 3,252 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 68.5% are families, while the remaining 31.5% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
3,252
7.0% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
1,023
Family households
2,229
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,023 31.5% 3.6%
Family households 2,229 68.5% 8.6%
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 Zebulon

The housing landscape of Zebulon

Zebulon's housing consists of 3,474 units, with 72.9% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 4.5% 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 9.1% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
3,474
8.7% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 2,531 72.9%
1 unit, attached 157 4.5%
2 units 122 3.5%
3 or 4 units 129 3.7%
5 to 9 units 27 0.8%
20 to 49 units 43 1.2%
50 or more units 148 4.3%
Mobile home 317 9.1%
Homes built since 2020
498
71.1% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Zebulon

In Zebulon, the median construction year is 2000. About 2.7% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 2.5% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 8% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 27.1% between 2010 and 2019, and 14.3% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 94 2.7% 34.3%
Built between 1940 and 1949 88 2.5% -33.3%
Built between 1950 and 1959 131 3.8% -14.9%
Built between 1960 and 1969 105 3% -43.9%
Built between 1970 and 1979 431 12.4% -16.0%
Built between 1980 and 1989 387 11.1% -6.1%
Built between 1990 and 1999 522 15% 18.4%
Built between 2000 and 2009 277 8% 14.0%
Built between 2010 and 2019 941 27.1% 25.1%
Built in 2020 or later 498 14.3% 71.1%
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.

Zebulon occupancy rates

Out of the 3,252 occupied housing units in Zebulon, 62.7% are owner-occupied, while 37.3% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 6.4% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
3,252
7.0% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,213
Owner occupied
2,039
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,213 37.3% -7.5%
Owner occupied 2,039 62.7% 18.0%
Unoccupied housing units
6.4%
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.

Zebulon housing costs

Housing costs in Zebulon come to a median of $1,453 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,109.

Median housing costs per month
$1,453/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 Zebulon
$1,109/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 Zebulon

Zebulon education at a glance

About 36.4% of the population in Zebulon went to high school, while 14.6% pursued college studies. Another 13.1% earned an associate degree and 22.4% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 9.1% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 293 4.4% 30.8%
High school diploma 2,415 36.4% 1.6%
College diploma 969 14.6% -21.0%
Associate degree 868 13.1% 28.8%
Bachelor's degree 1,482 22.4% 36.7%
Graduate degree 602 9.1% 52.0%
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 Zebulon

How much people earn in Zebulon

The average annual household income in Zebulon was $87,830 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +21.3% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $79,112, reflecting a +34.2% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Zebulon
$87,830/year
21.3% year-over-year change
Median household income in Zebulon
$79,112/year
34.2% year-over-year change

Zebulon income by age

In Zebulon, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $109,375. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $58,750 overall. Overall, 90.9% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $109,375 7.6%
45 - 64 $58,750 31.8%
Over 65 $55,536 57.5%
Above poverty level
7,704
Below poverty level
773
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 7,704 90.9% 13.2%
Below poverty level 773 9.1% -19.6%

Average renter income in Zebulon

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Zebulon, their median household income was $24,184 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 55%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$24,184
Rent-to-income ratio
55%
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 Zebulon

Workforce and job types in Zebulon

The job market in Zebulon is powered by 4,320 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 75.3% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 24.7% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.3% run their own businesses, 74% are employed by private companies, and 9.2% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
4,320
14.9% year-over-year change
White collar
3,252
Blue collar
1,068
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 3,252 75.3% 19.9%
Blue collar 1,068 24.7% 2.0%
Employer type
Self employees
8.3%
Private companies
74%
Governmental workers
9.2%
Not for profit companies
8.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 358 8.3% 9.2%
Private companies 3,198 74% 12.7%
Governmental workers 398 9.2% -13.8%
Not for profit companies 366 8.5% 175.2%
Unemployment rate
7.1%
-20.8% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Zebulon stands at 7.1%, 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 Zebulon

How people get around in Zebulon

Commuting methods vary: 75.3% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.1% 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 3,242 75.3% 12.2%
Walk 90 2.1% 119.5%
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 Zebulon by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
27597 30,184 10,976 $84,625 $96,132

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FAQs about Zebulon demographics 

What is the total population of Zebulon?

Zebulon has a total population of 8,711 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 +9.4% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Zebulon?

The gender ratio in Zebulon is as follows:
  • 47.1% males (4,104 residents)
  • 52.9% females (4,607 residents)

What is the median age in Zebulon?

The median age in Zebulon is 38.3.

What is the age distribution of the population in Zebulon?

The age distribution in Zebulon is as follows:
  • Under 15: 17.7% (1,544 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 13.4% (1,165 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 34.8% (3,029 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 21.2% (1,851 residents)
  • Over 65: 12.9% (1,122 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Zebulon?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Zebulon is as follows:
  • White: 30.4% (2,644 residents)
  • Black or African American: 45.6% (3,968 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.4% (34 residents)
  • Asian: 0.4% (31 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 11.6% (1,013 residents)
  • Other: 11.7% (1,021 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 77.5% of the population in Zebulon.

How many housing units are there in Zebulon?

There are 3,474 housing units in Zebulon, reflecting a +8.7% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Zebulon has a total of 3,252 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Zebulon?

Zebulon has a median household income of $79,112, representing a +34.2% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 92.9% in Zebulon, with a workforce of 4,320 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 75.3% (3,252 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 24.7% (1,068 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.3% (358 residents)
  • Private companies: 74% (3,198 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 9.2% (398 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 8.5% (366 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