Guilford County, North Carolina Demographics 2026

Population Overview

Guilford County is located in North Carolina with a total population of 542,987. It is the 3rd most populous county out of 100 in North Carolina. The county encompasses 3 Census-designated places.

Age Demographics

The median age in Guilford County is 37.4 years. This is 4% lower than the state median of 39.1 years.

Economy, Income & Housing

The median household income in Guilford County is $66,027. This is 6% lower than the state median of $69,904. Compared to the national median of $78,538, household income here is 16% lower. The poverty rate stands at 15.2%. This is 16% 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 $234,900. Housing costs are 9% lower than the state median of $259,400. The home-value-to-income ratio is 3.6x. 60.0% of occupied housing units are owner-occupied. This homeownership rate is 10% lower than the state average of 66.4%.

Race & Ethnicity

The largest racial or ethnic group in Guilford County is White (non-Hispanic), making up 46.8% of the population. Black or African American residents account for 33.5%. The Black or African American population is significantly higher than the state average (33.5% vs 20.3%). The Asian population is significantly higher than the state average (5.2% vs 3.1%).

Education

38.1% of residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher. This is 10% 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 90.3%.