Burke County, North Carolina

Income Data

-9% vs. North Carolina average
$55,684
Median Household Income
$31,184
Per Capita Income

At a Glance

Median Household Income
$55,684
-9% vs. state avg
Per Capita Income
$31,184
-21% vs. national
Income-to-Housing Ratio
32.7%
income as % of home value
Rank in North Carolina
#63 / 100
by median household income

How Burke County Compares

Burke County$55,684
North Carolina Average$61,072
National Median$74,755

Detailed Income Statistics

$55,684
Median Household Income
$31,184
Per Capita Income
$170,500
Median Home Value
32.7%
Income-to-Housing Ratio

Data Story

About Household Income in Burke County, North Carolina

Burke earns 26% less than nation

Burke County's median household income of $55,684 lags the national median of $74,755 by $19,071. This gap reflects rural economic constraints and limited high-wage job opportunities in the foothills region.

Lower-middle tier statewide

At $55,684, Burke County falls short of the state average of $61,072 by $5,388—nearly a 9% deficit. The county ranks in the lower-middle range among North Carolina counties, indicating structural economic challenges.

Neighborhood income gaps are stark

Burke County ($55,684) earns more than Bladen ($44,528) but significantly less than Cabarrus ($86,084) and Camden ($87,781). Its foothills location and manufacturing-dependent economy limit income growth compared to more dynamic urban neighbors.

Housing remains affordable anchor

Burke County's low 17.4% rent-to-income ratio and modest $170,500 median home value create favorable affordability conditions. Housing costs consume less of household budgets here than in most other regions, leaving room for savings and investment.

Affordable housing fuels wealth-building

Burke County's low housing costs are a financial advantage—use the savings to build emergency funds, contribute to retirement plans, and invest in skills training for higher-wage work. Homeownership here is achievable, providing a tangible asset for long-term wealth.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the median household income in Burke County, North Carolina?
The median household income in Burke County, North Carolina is $55,684, according to U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey 2019-2023 5-Year Estimates. This represents the midpoint of all household incomes in the county.
How much do people earn in Burke County?
The per capita income in Burke County is $31,184, which represents the average income per person across the entire county population. The median household income — which accounts for all earners in a household — is $55,684.
How does Burke County compare to the North Carolina average?
Burke County's median household income of $55,684 is lower than the North Carolina state average of $61,072. The per capita income is $31,184, compared to the state average of $33,920.
What is the per capita income in Burke County, North Carolina?
The per capita income in Burke County, North Carolina is $31,184, according to U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey 2019-2023 5-Year Estimates. Per capita income is calculated by dividing total personal income by total population, providing an average income figure per resident.
Is Burke County a low-income area in North Carolina?
Burke County's median household income of $55,684 is below the North Carolina average of $61,072. The per capita income of $31,184 is also lower than the state average of $33,920. Lower incomes can reflect the local economic base, rural vs. urban location, and employment opportunities available in the area.
How does Burke County rank for income in North Carolina?
Burke County ranks #63 out of 100 counties in North Carolina by median household income (1 = highest). With a median household income of $55,684 and per capita income of $31,184, it falls in the middle third of counties statewide.

Income Comparison Calculator

See how your household income compares in Burke County

$
1.00x

Your income is above the Burke County median

County median: $55,684 per year

vs. County Median

+0%

vs. State Average

-9%

vs. National Median

-26%

vs. Burke County MedianAbout equal
vs. North Carolina Average9% below
vs. National Median26% below

Income Adequacy

Monthly income covers median rent5.8x

Your monthly income ($4,640) vs. median rent ($805/mo). A ratio of 3.3x or higher means rent is under 30% of income.

Sponsored

Grow Your Wealth

See how your income stacks up in Burke County, North Carolina? Start investing smarter with a robo-advisor that builds a diversified portfolio for you.

Start Investing

Counties with Similar Income Levels

Sponsored

Compare Financial Products in North Carolina

Compare savings accounts, CDs, and money market rates from top banks to make the most of your earnings.

Compare Rates

Data: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.