Warren County, North Carolina Demographics 2026

Population Overview

Warren County is located in North Carolina with a total population of 18,751. It is the 82nd most populous county out of 100 in North Carolina. The county encompasses 2 Census-designated places.

Age Demographics

The median age in Warren County is 48.6 years. This is 24% higher than the state median of 39.1 years. 11.3% 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 Warren County is $45,279. This is 35% lower than the state median of $69,904. Compared to the national median of $78,538, household income here is 42% lower. The poverty rate stands at 22.2%. This is 69% higher than the state poverty rate of 13.2%. With more than one in five residents living below the poverty line, economic hardship is a significant challenge for the community. The unemployment rate is 8.0%. This is 66% higher than the state rate of 4.8%. The median home value is $124,700. Housing costs are 52% lower than the state median of $259,400. With a home-value-to-income ratio of just 2.8x, Warren County is one of the most affordable housing markets in the area. 69.8% of occupied housing units are owner-occupied. This homeownership rate is 5% higher than the state average of 66.4%.

Race & Ethnicity

The largest racial or ethnic group in Warren County is Black or African American, making up 47.1% of the population. White (non-Hispanic) residents account for 37.7%. The Black or African American population is significantly higher than the state average (47.1% vs 20.3%). The Hispanic or Latino population (4.4%) is well below the state average of 10.9%. The Asian population (0.7%) is well below the state average of 3.1%.

Education

19.1% of residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher. This is 45% 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 86.7%.