Catawba County's 2026 population is estimated at 171,252, reflecting a 1.24% growth rate over the past year (World Population Review estimate based on U.S. Census Bureau data). Catawba County is the 19th largest county in North Carolina. The 2010 population was 154,758 and has grown 10.66% since 2010.
Data after 2023 is projected based on recent change
Overall: 42.1 years
Female: 43.2 years
Male: 40.4 years
There are 128,179 adults, (30,611 of whom are seniors) in Catawba County.
Female: 83,339 (50.9%)
Male: 80,234 (49.1%)
The racial composition of Catawba County includes 74.6% White, 7.91% Black or African American, 4.26% Asian, 4.08% other race, and smaller percentages for Native American, Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander and multiracial populations.
| Race | Population ↓ | Percentage (of total) |
|---|---|---|
| White | 122,021 | 74.6% |
| Two or more races | 13,944 | 8.52% |
| Black or African American | 12,945 | 7.91% |
| Asian | 6,962 | 4.26% |
| Other race | 6,677 | 4.08% |
| Native American | 944 | 0.58% |
| Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander | 80 | 0.05% |
Catawba County 's average per capita income is $47,470. Household income levels show a median of $67,864. The poverty rate stands at 12.74%.
| Name | Median ↓ | Mean |
|---|---|---|
| Married Families | $98,903 | $124,462 |
| Families | $81,362 | $106,548 |
| Households | $67,864 | $90,959 |
| Non Families | $37,200 | $53,418 |
Average Income
Median Household Income
Poverty Rate