Carteret County, North Carolina

Income Data

+15% vs. North Carolina average
$70,235
Median Household Income
$42,707
Per Capita Income

At a Glance

Median Household Income
$70,235
+15% vs. state avg
Per Capita Income
$42,707
+8% vs. national
Income-to-Housing Ratio
23.1%
income as % of home value
Rank in North Carolina
#22 / 100
by median household income

How Carteret County Compares

Carteret County$70,235
North Carolina Average$61,072
National Median$74,755

Detailed Income Statistics

$70,235
Median Household Income
$42,707
Per Capita Income
$304,200
Median Home Value
23.1%
Income-to-Housing Ratio

Data Story

About Household Income in Carteret County, North Carolina

Carteret slightly below national median

Carteret County's median household income of $70,235 trails the national median of $74,755 by $4,520. Despite this modest gap, the county ranks solidly in the middle-income tier nationally, reflecting stable coastal employment.

Above-average among NC counties

At $70,235, Carteret County exceeds the state average of $61,072 by $9,163—a 15% premium. The county's maritime industries, tourism, and waterfront economy support above-average household earnings statewide.

Middle-tier earner in group

Carteret County ($70,235) closely matches Buncombe ($70,578) and Brunswick ($74,034), outpacing lower-income counties but trailing Cabarrus ($86,084) and Camden ($87,781). Its profile reflects a stable mid-coast economy.

Balanced housing affordability

With an 18.1% rent-to-income ratio and median home value of $304,200, Carteret County households face moderate housing costs relative to income. The affordable rent-to-income ratio supports renters, while homeownership requires commitment to manage higher home prices.

Invest steadily in your future

Carteret County's middle-income stability supports disciplined wealth-building through retirement savings and diversified investments. Take advantage of employer plans, automate monthly contributions to index funds, and consider real estate appreciation as a long-term wealth driver.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the median household income in Carteret County, North Carolina?
The median household income in Carteret County, North Carolina is $70,235, 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 Carteret County?
The per capita income in Carteret County is $42,707, 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 $70,235.
How does Carteret County compare to the North Carolina average?
Carteret County's median household income of $70,235 is higher than the North Carolina state average of $61,072. The per capita income is $42,707, compared to the state average of $33,920.
What is the per capita income in Carteret County, North Carolina?
The per capita income in Carteret County, North Carolina is $42,707, 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.
Why is Carteret County income higher than the North Carolina average?
Carteret County's median household income of $70,235 is higher than the North Carolina average of $61,072. This difference of $9,163 can be attributed to factors such as local industry mix, proximity to major employment centers, educational attainment levels, and cost of living. Counties with higher incomes often have a greater concentration of professional and technical occupations.
How does Carteret County rank for income in North Carolina?
Carteret County ranks #22 out of 100 counties in North Carolina by median household income (1 = highest). With a median household income of $70,235 and per capita income of $42,707, it falls in the top third of counties statewide.

Income Comparison Calculator

See how your household income compares in Carteret County

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Your income is above the Carteret County median

County median: $70,235 per year

vs. County Median

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vs. State Average

+15%

vs. National Median

-6%

vs. Carteret County MedianAbout equal
vs. North Carolina Average15% above
vs. National Median6% below

Income Adequacy

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Your monthly income ($5,853) vs. median rent ($1,062/mo). A ratio of 3.3x or higher means rent is under 30% of income.

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