Cherokee County, North Carolina Demographics 2026

Population Overview

Cherokee County is located in North Carolina with a total population of 29,197. It is the 72nd most populous county out of 100 in North Carolina. The county encompasses 1 Census-designated place.

Age Demographics

The median age in Cherokee County is 53.3 years. This is 36% higher than the state median of 39.1 years. 12.0% of residents are 75 or older, suggesting a significant retirement-age population with implications for healthcare services and senior housing.

Economy, Income & Housing

The median household income in Cherokee County is $51,496. This is 26% lower than the state median of $69,904. Compared to the national median of $78,538, household income here is 34% lower. The poverty rate stands at 14.6%. This is 11% higher than the state poverty rate of 13.2%. The unemployment rate is 5.4%. This is 11% higher than the state rate of 4.8%. The median home value is $208,700. Housing costs are 20% lower than the state median of $259,400. The home-value-to-income ratio is 4.1x. 83.6% of occupied housing units are owner-occupied. This homeownership rate is 26% higher than the state average of 66.4%.

Race & Ethnicity

Cherokee County has a predominantly White (non-Hispanic) population, comprising 90.1% of all residents. Hispanic or Latino residents account for 3.5%. The Black or African American population (1.5%) is well below the state average of 20.3%. The Hispanic or Latino population (3.5%) is well below the state average of 10.9%. The Asian population (0.5%) is well below the state average of 3.1%.

Education

24.2% of residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher. This is 30% lower than the state rate of 34.7%. Nationally, 35.0% of adults hold at least a bachelor's degree. The high school graduation rate (or equivalent) is 91.4%.