Hillsborough, NC
Population 9,656 · North Carolina
About Hillsborough, NC
Hillsborough is a small community in North Carolina with a population of 9,656 residents. The median household income is $98,467 per year, which is above the national average. The median age in Hillsborough is 43.6 years.
Housing in Hillsborough has a median home value of $430,100 and median monthly rent of $1,349. Of the 4,461 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 2,646 owner-occupied and 1,511 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Hillsborough is 4.8% and the poverty rate is 8.7%. 61.8% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 21.3 minutes.
How Hillsborough Ranks in North Carolina
Cost of Living in Hillsborough, NC
Compared to national averages, Hillsborough has a median household income of $98,467 (31% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $430,100, which is 76% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,349 is 16% above the US average of $1,163. Within North Carolina, Hillsborough's income is 53% above the state average of $64,468, and home values are 88% above the state median of $228,922.
Why Live in Hillsborough, NC?
Hillsborough offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $98,467, well above the national average, and a well-educated community where 61.8% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, and a low poverty rate of 8.7%, better than the national average. Additionally, the city features short commute times averaging just 21.3 minutes.
Potential considerations include a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $430,100. However, Hillsborough’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Hillsborough has a population of 9,656 with a median age of 43.6 years. Compare Hillsborough with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in North Carolina.
Similar Cities Near Hillsborough
Cities in North Carolina with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Morehead City | 9,696 | $53,718 | $330,900 | Compare |
| Washington | 9,754 | $41,723 | $193,800 | Compare |
| St. Stephens | 9,409 | $57,882 | $187,500 | Compare |
| Lake Norman of Catawba | 9,308 | $106,836 | $522,300 | Compare |
| Gibsonville | 9,289 | $105,981 | $262,400 | Compare |
| Hampstead | 9,129 | $90,184 | $395,900 | Compare |
| Rolesville | 10,200 | $148,250 | $467,400 | Compare |
| Rockingham | 9,094 | $36,695 | $133,900 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in North Carolina
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare Hillsborough With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Hillsborough
What is the population of Hillsborough, NC?
The population of Hillsborough, NC is 9,656 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Hillsborough?
The median household income in Hillsborough, NC is $98,467 per year.
What is the median home value in Hillsborough?
The median home value in Hillsborough, NC is $430,100.
What is the average rent in Hillsborough?
The median monthly rent in Hillsborough, NC is $1,349.
What is the unemployment rate in Hillsborough?
The unemployment rate in Hillsborough, NC is 4.8%.