Leland, NC
Population 26,307 · North Carolina
About Leland, NC
Leland is a mid-sized city located in North Carolina with a population of 26,307 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $88,576 per year, which is 18% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 48 years is notably older the US median age of 38.9 years, suggesting a more established community with a higher proportion of long-term residents.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Leland features a median home value of $358,800, which is 47% above the national median of $244,900. This positions Leland in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,603, 38% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 11,995 total housing units, 82% are owner-occupied (9,180 units) and 18% are renter-occupied (2,078 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Leland shows an unemployment rate of 4.5%, 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 Leland have an average one-way commute time of 24.5 minutes.
Education & Demographics
39.0% of Leland residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This is in line with national trends in educational attainment. The community's demographic composition includes 2.9% White, 1.9% Hispanic or Latino, 1.0% Black or African American, and 1.2% Asian residents, with 4.8% of the population being foreign-born.
How Leland Ranks in North Carolina
Cost of Living in Leland, NC
Compared to national averages, Leland has a median household income of $88,576 (18% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $358,800, which is 47% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,603 is 38% above the US average of $1,163. Within North Carolina, Leland's income is 37% above the state average of $64,468, and home values are 57% above the state median of $228,922.
Why Live in Leland, NC?
Leland offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $88,576, well above the national average, and a well-educated community where 39.0% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, and a low poverty rate of 5.8%, better than the national average. Additionally, the city features short commute times averaging just 24.5 minutes.
Leland has a population of 26,307 with a median age of 48 years. Compare Leland with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in North Carolina.
Similar Cities Near Leland
Cities in North Carolina with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mint Hill | 26,954 | $99,272 | $386,900 | Compare |
| Thomasville | 27,261 | $58,246 | $163,200 | Compare |
| Asheboro | 27,353 | $48,628 | $162,800 | Compare |
| Kernersville | 27,439 | $69,923 | $264,000 | Compare |
| Clayton | 28,043 | $73,348 | $292,400 | Compare |
| Statesville | 29,161 | $55,492 | $226,100 | Compare |
| Matthews | 29,959 | $105,579 | $406,800 | Compare |
| Morrisville | 30,471 | $125,404 | $481,800 | 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 Leland With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Leland
What is the population of Leland, NC?
The population of Leland, NC is 26,307 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 Leland?
The median household income in Leland, NC is $88,576 per year, which is 18% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Leland?
The median home value in Leland, NC is $358,800, which is 47% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Leland?
The median monthly rent in Leland, NC is $1,603, which is 38% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Leland?
The unemployment rate in Leland, NC is 4.5%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Leland, NC a good place to live?
Leland offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 26,307 and a median age of 48, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Leland, NC?
39.0% of residents in Leland 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 Leland?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Leland, NC: median home value is $358,800 (47% above national), median rent is $1,603/month, and median household income is $88,576. The home-value-to-income ratio is 4.1x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in Leland?
The poverty rate in Leland, 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 Leland, NC?
Leland's population is 2.9% White, 1.9% Hispanic or Latino, 1.0% Black or African American, 1.2% Asian, and 9.4% two or more races. 4.8% of residents are foreign-born.