Washington County, North Carolina Demographics 2026

Population Overview

Washington County is located in North Carolina with a total population of 10,905. It is the 94th most populous county out of 100 in North Carolina. The county encompasses 1 Census-designated place.

Age Demographics

The median age in Washington County is 49.3 years. This is 26% higher than the state median of 39.1 years. 10.5% 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 Washington County is $41,750. This is 40% lower than the state median of $69,904. Compared to the national median of $78,538, household income here is 47% lower. The poverty rate stands at 24.7%. This is 88% 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 11.2%. This is 133% higher than the state rate of 4.8%. The median home value is $107,000. Housing costs are 59% lower than the state median of $259,400. With a home-value-to-income ratio of just 2.6x, Washington County is one of the most affordable housing markets in the area. 68.7% of occupied housing units are owner-occupied. This homeownership rate is 4% higher than the state average of 66.4%.

Race & Ethnicity

The largest racial or ethnic group in Washington County is Black or African American, making up 48.9% of the population. White (non-Hispanic) residents account for 44.6%. The Black or African American population is significantly higher than the state average (48.9% vs 20.3%). The Hispanic or Latino population (3.9%) is well below the state average of 10.9%.

Education

12.2% 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 65% 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 85.6%.