Cleveland County, North Carolina
Income Data
At a Glance
How Cleveland County Compares
Detailed Income Statistics
Data Story
About Household Income in Cleveland County, North Carolina
Cleveland income trails national benchmarks
Cleveland County's median household income of $55,769 falls $18,986 below the national median of $74,755, a 25% gap. The county's textile and manufacturing heritage has left economic challenges as regional employment shifted.
Notably below state average income
At $55,769, Cleveland's median household income lags North Carolina's state average of $61,072 by $5,303. The county ranks in the lower-middle tier statewide, reflecting the economic stress facing traditional mill communities across the piedmont.
Low-income county in piedmont region
Cleveland's $55,769 income ranks between Cherokee ($51,496) and Caswell ($59,407) in this comparison, making it one of the region's more economically challenged counties. The county's industrial decline contrasts sharply with Catawba's more diversified manufacturing base.
Housing costs strain household budgets
Cleveland's rent-to-income ratio of 18.0% means housing consumes approximately one-fifth of median household income, among the highest in this group. The median home value of $180,200 represents a significant commitment for workers earning under $56,000.
Invest in skills and economic mobility
Cleveland County households earning $55,769 should prioritize education and workforce development to access higher-wage opportunities in growth sectors. Community college programs, apprenticeships, and certifications offer pathways to increase earning power and build long-term economic resilience.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Your income is above the Cleveland County median
County median: $55,769 per year
vs. County Median
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vs. State Average
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vs. National Median
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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.