DEMOGRAPHIC DATA

Demographic data provides information on trends within a community that can used to determine future growth patterns, potential concerns or issues, and areas of specific need.

Data was obtained through the U. S. Census Bureau and NC State Demographer.

POPULATION GROWTH

The rate at which a community is growing is an important consideration when looking at future development. A growing population equates to a need for more housing, jobs, schools, and services.

Over the last decade, Forsyth County's population has grown by 34,118 individuals equaling a 9.73% increase. The State Demographer estimates that Forsyth County's population will increase to a population of 409,296 by July 2030 and 443,136 by July 2040.

*Please note that the graphic shows 2021 data on the left and 2010 data on the right.

POPULATION DENSITY

Population density relates to where community members are living and how many individuals are living in a particular area. In the map to the right, the darker the shade the more dense the area. It should come as no surprise that the densest populations are seen in the central core of Winston-Salem with the outlining area of the county, particularly along the northern and western county boundary, are less densely populated.

This information is helpful when looking at recommendations for farmland and open space preservation, transportation improvements and connectivity, school and public safety facility locations, and housing.

MEDIAN AGE

Census data shows that Forsyth County's is slowly growing older with the median age increasing from 37.5 in 2010 to 38.6 in 2021. This figure is slightly below the 2021 national average of 38.8.

When viewing median age demographics geographically, it becomes apparent that the central core of Winston-Salem and the southern portion of the county have a younger generation compared to the outer portions of the county. The darker the area on the map the higher the median age.

Each generation has specific needs and demands. Understanding the age demographics of a community helps to determine where specific amenities and services are desired and needed currently and into the future.

*Please note that the bar graphic shows 2021 data on the left and 2010 data on the right.

HOUSEHOLD INCOME

Forsyth County's median income in 2021 was $59,879. This figure was slightly below the median income for North Carolina of $61,972. Over the last decade, the median income has increased by $16,342 over the 2010 median , an increase of 37.5%.

Median household income is important when discussing the concept of affordability. Affordable housing is defined as housing in which no more than 30% of gross income is spent on housing costs. For 2021, 51% of individuals with mortgages were spending 30% or more of their income to cover their mortgages.

*Please note that the bar graphic shows 2021 data on the left and 2010 data on the right.

ECONOMIC MOBILITY

Economic mobility is defined as the ability of an individual, family, or group to improve their economic status or move up the economic ladder. Forsyth County has been ranked third from the bottom out of more than 3,000 counties across the country in economic mobility in recent years.

When assessing parameters such as poverty levels and food access, there is a clear geographic correlation between areas experiencing poverty and those having low access to food. Both of these factors can relate to overall economic well being.

Educational attainment is another factor that can impact economic status. Limited educational attainment can result in limited job opportunities or career advancement. When reviewing educational attainment within the County for 2021, two-thirds of the County's population has an Associate's degree or less with 37% having a high school diploma or less.

Home ownership is another avenue for obtaining and growing wealth through generations. In 2021, one-third of housing is renter-occupied.