Zirconia, NC demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
3,242
-2.6% year-over-year change
Median household income
$97,042/yr
-1.1% year-over-year change
Housing units
1,713
-0.9% year-over-year change

Zirconia population

How many people live in Zirconia

Zirconia is home to 3,242 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.8% of Zirconia locals are male, and 50.2% are female.

Total population
3,242
-2.6% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.8%
1,614
Female
50.2%
1,627
Value Percent YoY change
Male 1,614 49.8% -2.0%
Female 1,627 50.2% -3.2%
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 Zirconia is 48, with the population distributed as follows: about 11.3% are children under 15, then 11.9% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 19% of the population, while another 38% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 19.8% are 65 or older.

Median age
48.3
Age breakdown
Under 15
11.3%
15 to 24
11.9%
25 to 44
19%
45 to 64
38%
Over 65
19.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 366 11.3% -3.7%
15 to 24 386 11.9% -4.0%
25 to 44 617 19% 9.8%
45 to 64 1,232 38% -5.7%
Over 65 640 19.8% -5.5%
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 Zirconia, 95.7% of the population are US-born citizens, while 0.5% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 3.8% of residents are non-citizens. There’s also a share of 2.4% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
95.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
0.5%
Non-citizens
3.8%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 3,102 95.7% -2.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 17 0.5% -48.5%
Non-citizens 123 3.8% -2.4%
Racial breakdown
White
87.1%
Black or African American
1.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native
3.3%
Asian
0%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
2.4%
Other
5.9%
Value Percent
White 2,824 87.1%
Black or African American 42 1.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native 106 3.3%
Two or more races 79 2.4%
Other 191 5.9%

Households in Zirconia

A peek inside Zirconia households

Zirconia has 1,423 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 75.4% are families, while the remaining 24.6% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
1,423
1.9% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
350
Family households
1,073
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 350 24.6% 6.1%
Family households 1,073 75.4% 0.7%
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 Zirconia

The housing landscape of Zirconia

Zirconia's housing consists of 1,713 units, with 85.6% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 14% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
1,713
-0.9% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 1,467 85.6%
5 to 9 units 6 0.4%
Mobile home 240 14%
Homes built since 2020
15
0.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Zirconia

In Zirconia, the median construction year is 1992. About 6.1% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 1.1% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 18.7% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 9.1% 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 104 6.1% -0.9%
Built between 1940 and 1949 19 1.1% 0.0%
Built between 1950 and 1959 125 7.3% -27.8%
Built between 1960 and 1969 135 7.9% -23.7%
Built between 1970 and 1979 225 13.1% -24.0%
Built between 1980 and 1989 170 9.9% 20.6%
Built between 1990 and 1999 444 25.9% 43.2%
Built between 2000 and 2009 320 18.7% -0.6%
Built between 2010 and 2019 156 9.1% -8.2%
Built in 2020 or later 15 0.9% 0.0%
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.

Zirconia occupancy rates

Out of the 1,423 occupied housing units in Zirconia, 90.4% are owner-occupied, while 9.6% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 16.9% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
1,423
1.9% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
137
Owner occupied
1,286
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 137 9.6% 39.8%
Owner occupied 1,286 90.4% -0.9%
Unoccupied housing units
16.9%
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.

Zirconia housing costs

Housing costs in Zirconia come to a median of $1,146 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $941.

Median housing costs per month
$1,146/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 Zirconia
$941/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 Zirconia

Zirconia education at a glance

About 43.1% of the population in Zirconia went to high school, while 24% pursued college studies. Another 10.8% earned an associate degree and 14.8% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 6.9% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 10 0.4% -54.5%
High school diploma 1,156 43.1% 6.5%
College diploma 642 24% -8.6%
Associate degree 290 10.8% -22.7%
Bachelor's degree 396 14.8% -2.2%
Graduate degree 186 6.9% 3.3%
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 Zirconia

How much people earn in Zirconia

The average annual household income in Zirconia was $110,585 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +3.1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $97,042, reflecting a -1.1% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Zirconia
$110,585/year
3.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in Zirconia
$97,042/year
-1.1% year-over-year change

Zirconia income by age

In Zirconia, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $135,441. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $100,235 overall. Overall, 95.6% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $135,441 7.5%
45 - 64 $100,235 1.5%
Over 65 $63,939 3.1%
Above poverty level
3,098
Below poverty level
144
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 3,098 95.6% -3.9%
Below poverty level 144 4.4% 34.6%

Employment in Zirconia

Workforce and job types in Zirconia

76.4% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 23.6% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 7.4% run their own businesses, 62.3% are employed by private companies, and 21.7% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

White collar
1,237
Blue collar
381
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 1,237 76.4% 3.4%
Blue collar 381 23.6% -16.8%
Employer type
Self employees
7.4%
Private companies
62.3%
Governmental workers
21.7%
Not for profit companies
8.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 120 7.4% -7.0%
Private companies 1,008 62.3% 1.0%
Governmental workers 351 21.7% -17.0%
Not for profit companies 139 8.6% 33.6%

Transportation in Zirconia

How people get around in Zirconia

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 1,518 100% -3.1%
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 Zirconia by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
28790 3,241 1,423 $97,042 $110,615

Explore more communities

FAQs about Zirconia demographics 

What is the total population of Zirconia?

Zirconia has a total population of 3,242 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 -2.6% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Zirconia?

The gender ratio in Zirconia is as follows:
  • 49.8% males (1,614 residents)
  • 50.2% females (1,627 residents)

What is the median age in Zirconia?

The median age in Zirconia is 48.3.

What is the age distribution of the population in Zirconia?

The age distribution in Zirconia is as follows:
  • Under 15: 11.3% (366 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.9% (386 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 19% (617 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 38% (1,232 residents)
  • Over 65: 19.8% (640 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Zirconia?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Zirconia is as follows:
  • White: 87.1% (2,824 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1.3% (42 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 3.3% (106 residents)
  • Asian: 0% ( residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% ( residents)
  • Two or More Races: 2.4% (79 residents)
  • Other: 5.9% (191 residents)

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

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

How many housing units are there in Zirconia?

There are 1,713 housing units in Zirconia, reflecting a -0.9% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Zirconia has a total of 1,423 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Zirconia?

Zirconia has a median household income of $97,042, representing a -1.1% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the job market overview for Zirconia?

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 76.4% (1,237 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 23.6% (381 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 7.4% (120 residents)
  • Private companies: 62.3% (1,008 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 21.7% (351 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 8.6% (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