Columbus County's 2026 population is estimated at 49,882, reflecting a -0.17% growth rate over the past year (World Population Review estimate based on U.S. Census Bureau data). Columbus County is the 52nd largest county in North Carolina. The 2010 population was 57,997 and has grown -13.99% since 2010.
Data after 2023 is projected based on recent change
Overall: 42.6 years
Female: 44.4 years
Male: 41.3 years
There are 39,806 adults, (10,376 of whom are seniors) in Columbus County.
Female: 25,501 (50.9%)
Male: 24,639 (49.1%)
The racial composition of Columbus County includes 59.51% White, 28.09% Black or African American, 4.06% Native American, and smaller percentages for other race, Asian, Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander and multiracial populations.
| Race | Population ↓ | Percentage (of total) |
|---|---|---|
| White | 29,839 | 59.51% |
| Black or African American | 14,082 | 28.09% |
| Two or more races | 2,709 | 5.4% |
| Native American | 2,036 | 4.06% |
| Other race | 1,186 | 2.37% |
| Asian | 249 | 0.5% |
| Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander | 39 | 0.08% |
Columbus County 's average per capita income is $40,005. Household income levels show a median of $49,442. The poverty rate stands at 18.18%.
| Name | Median ↓ | Mean |
|---|---|---|
| Married Families | $82,339 | $99,062 |
| Families | $63,861 | $80,739 |
| Households | $49,442 | $67,260 |
| Non Families | $26,876 | $41,704 |
Average Income
Median Household Income
Poverty Rate