Knightdale, NC
Population 19,532 · North Carolina
About Knightdale, NC
Knightdale is a mid-sized city located in North Carolina with a population of 19,532 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $91,638 per year, which is 22% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 34 years is notably younger the US median age of 38.9 years, indicating a younger, often more dynamic population base.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Knightdale features a median home value of $331,900, which is 36% above the national median of $244,900. This positions Knightdale in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,573, 35% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 7,889 total housing units, 64% are owner-occupied (4,843 units) and 36% are renter-occupied (2,687 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Knightdale shows an unemployment rate of 4.9%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 5.8%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Knightdale have an average one-way commute time of 26 minutes.
Education & Demographics
44.2% of Knightdale residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This significantly higher educational attainment rate often correlates with access to knowledge-economy jobs and higher household incomes. The community's demographic composition includes 4.4% White, 0.8% Hispanic or Latino, 1.2% Black or African American, and 4.1% Asian residents, with 12.0% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Knightdale, NC
Compared to national averages, Knightdale has a median household income of $91,638 (22% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $331,900, which is 36% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,573 is 35% above the US average of $1,163. Within North Carolina, Knightdale's income is 42% above the state average of $64,468, and home values are 45% above the state median of $228,922.
Why Live in Knightdale, NC?
Knightdale offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $91,638, well above the national average, and a well-educated community where 44.2% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, and a low poverty rate of 5.8%, better than the national average.
Knightdale has a population of 19,532 with a median age of 34 years. Compare Knightdale with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in North Carolina.
Similar Cities Near Knightdale
Cities in North Carolina with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Boone | 19,534 | $28,633 | $373,600 | Compare |
| Kinston | 19,576 | $35,250 | $108,300 | Compare |
| Lexington | 19,691 | $41,775 | $158,100 | Compare |
| Lumberton | 19,220 | $43,114 | $140,100 | Compare |
| Harrisburg | 19,203 | $143,393 | $431,900 | Compare |
| Mebane | 18,899 | $84,312 | $295,600 | Compare |
| Elizabeth City | 18,740 | $50,947 | $202,100 | Compare |
| Lenoir | 18,282 | $48,889 | $165,200 | 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 Knightdale With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Knightdale
What is the population of Knightdale, NC?
The population of Knightdale, NC is 19,532 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a mid-sized city in North Carolina.
What is the median household income in Knightdale?
The median household income in Knightdale, NC is $91,638 per year, which is 22% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Knightdale?
The median home value in Knightdale, NC is $331,900, which is 36% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Knightdale?
The median monthly rent in Knightdale, NC is $1,573, which is 35% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Knightdale?
The unemployment rate in Knightdale, NC is 4.9%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Knightdale, NC a good place to live?
Knightdale offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 19,532 and a median age of 34, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Knightdale, NC?
44.2% of residents in Knightdale aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This above-average educational attainment often reflects a knowledge-based local economy.
What is the cost of living in Knightdale?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Knightdale, NC: median home value is $331,900 (36% above national), median rent is $1,573/month, and median household income is $91,638. The home-value-to-income ratio is 3.6x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in Knightdale?
The poverty rate in Knightdale, NC is 5.8%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Knightdale, NC?
Knightdale's population is 4.4% White, 0.8% Hispanic or Latino, 1.2% Black or African American, 4.1% Asian, and 46.2% two or more races. 12.0% of residents are foreign-born.