Caldwell County, North Carolina
Income Data
U.S. Census Bureau ACSAt a Glance
Economic Indicators
How Caldwell County Compares
Detailed Income Statistics
Income Advisory: Caldwell County
Income Verdict
Caldwell County has a median household income of $55,401 and per capita income of $30,811 — a gap of $24,590, suggesting a higher share of single-earner or non-family households.
Housing Affordability
With median gross rent at $735/month and a median household income of $55,401, rent consumes approximately 15.9% of monthly income — well within affordable thresholds.
Economic Context
With a median household income of $55,401, residents of Caldwell County likely face budget constraints in higher-cost regions but may find cost of living manageable locally. Per capita income of $30,811 is in line with national norms for individual earners.
Neighbor Context
Caldwell County earns approximately 9.3% below the North Carolina state median household income of $61,072.
Data Story
About Household Income in Caldwell County, North Carolina
Caldwell trails national income median
Caldwell County's median household income of $55,401 falls $19,354 below the national median of $74,755. The 26% shortfall reflects the county's rural, manufacturing-dependent economy and limited high-wage employment.
Lower-middle income for North Carolina
At $55,401, Caldwell County ranks below the state average of $61,072 by $5,671—a 9% deficit. The county's reliance on traditional industries and aging workforce contribute to below-average statewide earnings.
Similar to Burke, far behind leaders
Caldwell County ($55,401) earns nearly equally with Burke ($55,684) but trails Cabarrus ($86,084) by $30,683—a 56% gap. Its foothills location and industrial challenges parallel Burke's economic constraints.
Best affordability ratio in region
Caldwell County boasts the lowest rent-to-income ratio among these eight counties at 15.9%, and a median home value of just $174,000. Housing is highly affordable, enabling households to save and invest despite moderate incomes.
Use low costs to build savings
Caldwell County's exceptional housing affordability—the county's strongest financial advantage—creates space to accumulate emergency savings and retirement funds. Prioritize skill development and education to increase earning potential while leveraging low living costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Income Comparison Calculator
See how your household income compares in Caldwell County
Your income is above the Caldwell County median
County median: $55,401 per year
vs. County Median
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vs. State Average
-9%
vs. National Median
-26%
Income Adequacy
Your monthly income ($4,617) vs. median rent ($735/mo). A ratio of 3.3x or higher means rent is under 30% of income.
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Compare RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.