Avery County's 2026 population is estimated at 18,011, reflecting a 0.56% growth rate over the past year (World Population Review estimate based on U.S. Census Bureau data). Avery County is the 84th largest county in North Carolina. The 2010 population was 17,797 and has grown 1.2% since 2010.
Data after 2023 is projected based on recent change
Overall: 47.1 years
Female: 48.8 years
Male: 45.9 years
There are 15,126 adults, (4,180 of whom are seniors) in Avery County.
Female: 8,179 (46.3%)
Male: 9,501 (53.7%)
The racial composition of Avery County includes 86.75% White, 3.82% Black or African American, and smaller percentages for other race, Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander, Asian, Native American and multiracial populations.
| Race | Population ↓ | Percentage (of total) |
|---|---|---|
| White | 15,338 | 86.75% |
| Two or more races | 965 | 5.46% |
| Black or African American | 676 | 3.82% |
| Other race | 525 | 2.97% |
| Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander | 80 | 0.45% |
| Asian | 77 | 0.44% |
| Native American | 19 | 0.11% |
Avery County 's average per capita income is $36,466. Household income levels show a median of $61,428. The poverty rate stands at 10.16%.
| Name | Median ↓ | Mean |
|---|---|---|
| Married Families | $91,142 | - |
| Families | $84,225 | $106,544 |
| Households | $61,428 | $88,834 |
| Non Families | $35,595 | $53,633 |
Average Income
Median Household Income
Poverty Rate