Forsyth County, North Carolina Demographics 2026

Population Overview

Forsyth County is located in North Carolina with a total population of 386,740. It is the 4th most populous county out of 100 in North Carolina. The county encompasses 3 Census-designated places.

Age Demographics

The median age in Forsyth County is 38.3 years. This is 2% lower than the state median of 39.1 years.

Economy, Income & Housing

The median household income in Forsyth County is $65,541. This is 6% lower than the state median of $69,904. Compared to the national median of $78,538, household income here is 17% lower. The poverty rate stands at 14.7%. This is 12% higher than the state poverty rate of 13.2%. The unemployment rate is 5.3%. This is 10% higher than the state rate of 4.8%. The median home value is $227,800. Housing costs are 12% lower than the state median of $259,400. The home-value-to-income ratio is 3.5x. 62.7% of occupied housing units are owner-occupied. This homeownership rate is 6% lower than the state average of 66.4%.

Race & Ethnicity

The largest racial or ethnic group in Forsyth County is White (non-Hispanic), making up 54.2% of the population. Black or African American residents account for 24.9%.

Education

36.9% of residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher. This is 6% higher 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 89.9%.