Gaston County's 2026 population is estimated at 249,724, reflecting a 1.57% growth rate over the past year (World Population Review estimate based on U.S. Census Bureau data). Gaston County is the 12th largest county in North Carolina. The 2010 population was 206,114 and has grown 21.16% since 2010.
Data after 2023 is projected based on recent change
Overall: 39.1 years
Female: 40.5 years
Male: 38 years
There are 182,185 adults, (38,767 of whom are seniors) in Gaston County.
Female: 121,212 (51.6%)
Male: 113,669 (48.4%)
The racial composition of Gaston County includes 68.41% White, 17.52% Black or African American, 3.95% other race, and smaller percentages for Asian, Native American, Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander and multiracial populations.
| Race | Population ↓ | Percentage (of total) |
|---|---|---|
| White | 160,677 | 68.41% |
| Black or African American | 41,145 | 17.52% |
| Two or more races | 18,770 | 7.99% |
| Other race | 9,272 | 3.95% |
| Asian | 4,032 | 1.72% |
| Native American | 912 | 0.39% |
| Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander | 73 | 0.03% |
Gaston County 's average per capita income is $48,189. Household income levels show a median of $67,478. The poverty rate stands at 13.52%.
| Name | Median ↓ | Mean |
|---|---|---|
| Married Families | $104,341 | $128,592 |
| Families | $83,240 | $107,178 |
| Households | $67,478 | $91,074 |
| Non Families | $39,809 | $56,182 |
Average Income
Median Household Income
Poverty Rate