Cape Charles, VA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
1,201
-6.0% year-over-year change
Median household income
$73,750/yr
43.9% year-over-year change
Housing units
1,185
2.0% year-over-year change

Cape Charles population

How many people live in Cape Charles

Cape Charles is home to 1,201 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.5% of Cape Charles locals are male, and 51.5% are female.

Total population
1,201
-6.0% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.5%
583
Female
51.5%
618
Value Percent YoY change
Male 583 48.5% -5.7%
Female 618 51.5% -6.4%
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 Cape Charles is 60, with the population distributed as follows: about 8.2% are children under 15, then 12.2% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 12.6% of the population, while another 29.4% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 37.7% are 65 or older.

Median age
60.5
Age breakdown
Under 15
8.2%
15 to 24
12.2%
25 to 44
12.6%
45 to 64
29.4%
Over 65
37.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 98 8.2% -3.9%
15 to 24 146 12.2% -32.1%
25 to 44 151 12.6% -16.6%
45 to 64 353 29.4% 13.1%
Over 65 453 37.7% -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 Cape Charles, 92.5% of the population are US-born citizens, while 6.3% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.2% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 85.4% of locals are Caucasian, 8.2% are African American and 1.3% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 4.9% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
92.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
6.3%
Non-citizens
1.2%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 1,111 92.5% -7.0%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 76 6.3% 11.8%
Non-citizens 14 1.2% -6.7%
Racial breakdown
White
85.4%
Black or African American
8.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
1.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
4.9%
Other
0.2%
Value Percent
White 1,025 85.4%
Black or African American 99 8.2%
Asian 16 1.3%
Two or more races 59 4.9%
Other 2 0.2%

Households in Cape Charles

A peek inside Cape Charles households

Cape Charles has 684 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 46.4% are families, while the remaining 53.6% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
684
0.7% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
367
Family households
317
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 367 53.6% -6.1%
Family households 317 46.4% 10.1%
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 Cape Charles

The housing landscape of Cape Charles

Cape Charles's housing consists of 1,185 units, with 57.5% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 14.8% and offer a more compact, shared living style.

Housing units
1,185
2.0% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 681 57.5%
1 unit, attached 175 14.8%
2 units 14 1.2%
3 or 4 units 76 6.4%
5 to 9 units 151 12.7%
10 to 19 units 76 6.4%
20 to 49 units 5 0.4%
50 or more units 7 0.6%
Homes built since 2020
27
35.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Cape Charles

In Cape Charles, the median construction year is 1976. About 38.5% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 2.4% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 28.8% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 10.7% between 2010 and 2019, and 2.3% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 456 38.5% -2.4%
Built between 1940 and 1949 29 2.4% -17.1%
Built between 1950 and 1959 50 4.2% -9.1%
Built between 1960 and 1969 25 2.1% 38.9%
Built between 1970 and 1979 54 4.6% -39.3%
Built between 1980 and 1989 56 4.7% 180.0%
Built between 1990 and 1999 20 1.7% 233.3%
Built between 2000 and 2009 341 28.8% -3.1%
Built between 2010 and 2019 127 10.7% 27.0%
Built in 2020 or later 27 2.3% 35.0%
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.

Cape Charles occupancy rates

Out of the 684 occupied housing units in Cape Charles, 66.4% are owner-occupied, while 33.6% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 42.3% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
684
0.7% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
230
Owner occupied
454
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 230 33.6% -14.2%
Owner occupied 454 66.4% 10.5%
Unoccupied housing units
42.3%
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.

Cape Charles housing costs

Housing costs in Cape Charles come to a median of $1,222 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $800.

Median housing costs per month
$1,222/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 Cape Charles
$800/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 Cape Charles

Cape Charles education at a glance

About 23.4% of the population in Cape Charles went to high school, while 14.1% pursued college studies. Another 7.7% earned an associate degree and 25% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 27% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 30 2.7% 30.4%
High school diploma 258 23.4% -18.9%
College diploma 156 14.1% -22.8%
Associate degree 85 7.7% 26.9%
Bachelor's degree 276 25% 0.0%
Graduate degree 298 27% 6.0%
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 Cape Charles

How much people earn in Cape Charles

The average annual household income in Cape Charles was $134,075 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +22% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $73,750, reflecting a +43.9% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Cape Charles
$134,075/year
22.0% year-over-year change
Median household income in Cape Charles
$73,750/year
43.9% year-over-year change

Cape Charles income by age

In Cape Charles, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $50,592. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $131,563 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $101,154, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $53,750 in earnings. Overall, 86.8% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $101,154 N/A
25 - 44 $50,592 0.6%
45 - 64 $131,563 33.4%
Over 65 $53,750 10.3%
Above poverty level
1,039
Below poverty level
158
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 1,039 86.8% -3.9%
Below poverty level 158 13.2% -17.7%

Average renter income in Cape Charles

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Cape Charles, their median household income was $23,750 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 40.4%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$23,750
Rent-to-income ratio
40.4%
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 Cape Charles

Workforce and job types in Cape Charles

The job market in Cape Charles is powered by 509 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 90.4% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 9.6% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 17.9% run their own businesses, 62.1% are employed by private companies, and 16.3% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
509
-2.7% year-over-year change
White collar
460
Blue collar
49
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 460 90.4% -1.7%
Blue collar 49 9.6% -10.9%
Employer type
Self employees
17.9%
Private companies
62.1%
Governmental workers
16.3%
Not for profit companies
3.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 91 17.9% -5.2%
Private companies 316 62.1% -10.5%
Governmental workers 83 16.3% 38.3%
Not for profit companies 19 3.7% 35.7%
Unemployment rate
2.9%
-66.7% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Cape Charles stands at 2.9%, 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 Cape Charles

How people get around in Cape Charles

Commuting methods vary: 68.1% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 10.2% 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 375 68.1% -8.8%
Subway or elevated 27 4.9% N/A
Walk 56 10.2% 21.7%
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 Cape Charles by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
23310 5,031 2,362 $62,500 $94,112

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FAQs about Cape Charles demographics 

What is the total population of Cape Charles?

Cape Charles has a total population of 1,201 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 -6.0% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Cape Charles?

The gender ratio in Cape Charles is as follows:
  • 48.5% males (583 residents)
  • 51.5% females (618 residents)

What is the median age in Cape Charles?

The median age in Cape Charles is 60.5.

What is the age distribution of the population in Cape Charles?

The age distribution in Cape Charles is as follows:
  • Under 15: 8.2% (98 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.2% (146 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 12.6% (151 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 29.4% (353 residents)
  • Over 65: 37.7% (453 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Cape Charles?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Cape Charles is as follows:
  • White: 85.4% (1,025 residents)
  • Black or African American: 8.2% (99 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% (0 residents)
  • Asian: 1.3% (16 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 4.9% (59 residents)
  • Other: 0.2% (2 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 92.5% of the population in Cape Charles.

How many housing units are there in Cape Charles?

There are 1,185 housing units in Cape Charles, reflecting a +2.0% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Cape Charles has a total of 684 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Cape Charles?

Cape Charles has a median household income of $73,750, representing a +43.9% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Cape Charles?

The employment rate is 97.1% in Cape Charles, with a workforce of 509 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 90.4% (460 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 9.6% (49 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 17.9% (91 residents)
  • Private companies: 62.1% (316 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 16.3% (83 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 3.7% (19 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