Columbus County, North Carolina Demographics 2026

Population Overview

Columbus County is located in North Carolina with a total population of 50,453. It is the 51st most populous county out of 100 in North Carolina. The county encompasses 5 Census-designated places.

Age Demographics

The median age in Columbus County is 42.4 years. This is 8% higher than the state median of 39.1 years.

Economy, Income & Housing

The median household income in Columbus County is $48,184. This is 31% lower than the state median of $69,904. Compared to the national median of $78,538, household income here is 39% lower. The poverty rate stands at 18.8%. This is 43% higher than the state poverty rate of 13.2%. The unemployment rate is 4.7%. This is 3% lower than the state rate of 4.8%. The median home value is $128,300. Housing costs are 51% lower than the state median of $259,400. With a home-value-to-income ratio of just 2.7x, Columbus County is one of the most affordable housing markets in the area. 72.3% of occupied housing units are owner-occupied. This homeownership rate is 9% higher than the state average of 66.4%.

Race & Ethnicity

The largest racial or ethnic group in Columbus County is White (non-Hispanic), making up 59.0% of the population. Black or African American residents account for 28.6%. The Asian population (0.4%) is well below the state average of 3.1%.

Education

15.1% of residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher. This is among the lowest rates in the state, which may correlate with employment and income patterns. This is 57% 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 86.5%.