Duplin County, North Carolina Demographics 2026

Population Overview

Duplin County is located in North Carolina with a total population of 49,053. It is the 52nd most populous county out of 100 in North Carolina. The county encompasses 5 Census-designated places.

Age Demographics

The median age in Duplin County is 40.7 years. This is 4% higher than the state median of 39.1 years.

Economy, Income & Housing

The median household income in Duplin County is $51,880. 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 17.9%. This is 36% higher than the state poverty rate of 13.2%. The unemployment rate is 4.7%. This is 2% lower than the state rate of 4.8%. The median home value is $123,200. Housing costs are 53% lower than the state median of $259,400. With a home-value-to-income ratio of just 2.4x, Duplin County is one of the most affordable housing markets in the area. 70.0% of occupied housing units are owner-occupied. This homeownership rate is 6% higher than the state average of 66.4%.

Race & Ethnicity

The largest racial or ethnic group in Duplin County is White (non-Hispanic), making up 50.8% of the population. Black or African American residents account for 22.7%. The Hispanic or Latino population is significantly higher than the state average (22.7% vs 10.9%). The Asian population (0.6%) is well below the state average of 3.1%.

Education

17.5% of residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher. This is 50% 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 81.9%.