Cleveland County's 2026 population is estimated at 104,144, reflecting a 0.79% growth rate over the past year (World Population Review estimate based on U.S. Census Bureau data). Cleveland County is the 29th largest county in North Carolina. The 2010 population was 97,922 and has grown 6.35% since 2010.
Overall: 41.3 years
Female: 42.9 years
Male: 39.5 years
There are 78,463 adults, (18,996 of whom are seniors) in Cleveland County.
Female: 52,226 (51.7%)
Male: 48,765 (48.3%)
The racial composition of Cleveland County includes 71.64% White, 17.92% Black or African American, and smaller percentages for other race, Asian, Native American, Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander and multiracial populations.
| Race | Population ↓ | Percentage (of total) |
|---|---|---|
| White | 72,350 | 71.64% |
| Black or African American | 18,099 | 17.92% |
| Two or more races | 6,783 | 6.72% |
| Other race | 2,244 | 2.22% |
| Asian | 1,098 | 1.09% |
| Native American | 353 | 0.35% |
| Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander | 64 | 0.06% |
Cleveland County 's average per capita income is $41,893. Household income levels show a median of $58,534. The poverty rate stands at 16.6%.
| Name | Median ↓ | Mean |
|---|---|---|
| Married Families | $89,741 | - |
| Families | $72,532 | $88,868 |
| Households | $58,534 | $76,018 |
| Non Families | $30,121 | $44,001 |
Average Income
Median Household Income
Poverty Rate