Statistic Shelby North Carolina National
Population 20,046 10,488,084 328,239,523
Population density (sq mi) 898 218 91
Median age 45.9 38.3 37.7
Male/Female ratio 0.8:1 1.0:1 1.0:1
Married (15yrs & older) 51% 57% 55%
Families w/ Kids under 18 32% 43% 43%
Speak English 96% 89% 79%
Speak Spanish 3% 7% 13%

Overview of Shelby Demographics

The population in Shelby is 20,046, while the population density is 898 people per square mile, contrasting with the national average of 91. The median age stands at 45.9, with 51% of individuals aged 15 or older being married and 32% having children under 18. In terms of household income equality in Shelby, 33% of households report a median income below $25,000, while 8% report an income exceeding $150,000. The Shelby demographics data can provide invaluable insight into the composition, dynamics and needs of urban and rural areas, enabling planners, developers and policymakers to strategize effectively for the promotion of prosperity, equity and well-being for all residents in the area.

Shelby Racial Demographics & Ethnicity

Recognizing the racial demographics and ethnicity breakdown of Shelby is pivotal for addressing systemic inequities, championing social justice and inclusion and fostering resilient communities. In Shelby, the racial breakdown comprises 58.2% White, 35.2% Black or African American, 0.6% Asian, 0% American Indian, and 0.6% Native Hawaiian, with 3.1% of the population identifying as Hispanic or Latino. 95.9% of households reported speaking English only, while 3.3% reported speaking Spanish only. Furthermore, 2.8% of residents were categorized as foreign-born.

Shelby Population Density

Communities such as Shelby, with population densities higher than the average, play a significant role in promoting environmental sustainability by decreasing per capita energy consumption, greenhouse gas emissions and land use. Their compact urban development encourages the adoption of energy-efficient buildings, walking, cycling, and public transportation, fostering sustainable lifestyles and minimizing environmental impact. Additionally, densely populated areas tend to cultivate vibrant social and cultural scenes, fueled by a diverse population that contributes to a myriad of cultural events, festivals and community activities. This cultural diversity sparks creativity, innovation and cross-cultural exchange, enriching the social fabric of the community. Shelby has a population density of 898, surpassing the national average of 91 people per square mile, as it stands poised to reap the benefits of dense urban living.

Why are Demographics Important?

Policy Planning: Demographic data and statistics serve as vital tools for informing policy and decision-making processes across various levels of government, as well as within organizations and businesses. Through the reporting and analysis of demographic data, policymakers, government officials, and organizational leaders can pinpoint areas of need, allocate resources efficiently, and craft tailored policies and programs to address the unique needs and priorities of different demographic groups. The utilization of demographic data in Shelby is instrumental in policy planning, facilitating resource allocation, evidence-based decision-making, priority identification, trend forecasting, policy impact assessment, and the promotion of equity and inclusion. By harnessing this data effectively, policymakers can devise targeted, impactful, and inclusive policies that cater to the diverse needs of communities.

Healthcare Planning: The examination of Shelby demographics can potentially inform healthcare planning and delivery by identifying population health needs, disparities and risk factors. By comprehending demographic trends, healthcare providers and policymakers can allocate resources effectively, develop prevention and intervention programs, and address health inequities within communities. Through the utilization of demographic statistics, healthcare providers and policymakers aim to achieve equitable, accessible, and high-quality healthcare for all individuals and communities. This proactive healthcare planning approach ensures targeted interventions, efficient resource allocation and tailored healthcare services to meet the diverse needs of populations.

Understanding Populations: Reporting and analyzing the demographic data in Shelby can allow us to gain insights into the characteristics and composition of populations, including age, gender, race, ethnicity, income, education and other socio-economic factors. This understanding is essential for addressing the diverse needs, preferences and challenges of different demographic groups within communities. Demographics can play a crucial role in understanding populations, informing decision-making processes and promoting equity, inclusion, and well-being for all individuals and communities. Shelby population data serves as a foundation for addressing social, economic, and environmental challenges and promoting the well-being and resilience of societies.

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Demographics Quick Facts

  • The population density in Shelby is 312% higher than North Carolina
  • The median age in Shelby is 20% higher than North Carolina
  • In Shelby 58.19% of the population is White
  • In Shelby 35.19% of the population is Black
  • In Shelby 0.60% of the population is Asian

Compare Shelby, NC Demographics

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      Shelby racial demographics

      Race Shelby North Carolina National
      White 58.19% 69.24% 73.35%
      Black 35.19% 21.50% 12.63%
      Asian 0.60% 2.56% 5.22%
      American Indian 0.00% 1.18% 0.82%
      Native Hawaiian 0.62% 0.07% 0.18%
      Mixed race 4.25% 2.45% 3.06%
      Other race 1.14% 3.01% 4.75%
      In Shelby, 3.1% of people are of Hispanic or Latino origin.
      Please note: Hispanics may be of any race, so also are included in any/all of the applicable race categories above.

      Household income distribution

      Place of birth by citizenship

      Shelby age breakdown

      Marital status

      Age of children in married couples

      Source: The Shelby, NC demographics data displayed above is derived from the United States Census Bureau American Community Survey (ACS).