Zip Code 27542
NC · Population: 9,610
About Zip Code 27542
Zip code 27542 is located in North Carolina and is home to approximately 9,610 residents. It receives an overall grade of B (score: 63/100), based on safety, affordability, quality of life, and employment metrics.
Crime rates in this area are roughly in line with national averages.
With a median household income of $58,966 and home values around $154,400, this zip code offers strong affordability. Residents typically spend a manageable share of their income on housing.
Educational attainment is below the national average, with 14.8% of adults holding a bachelor's degree or higher.
Unemployment stands at 3.7%, which is near the national average.
Scores are percentile-based: a score of 85 means this zip code ranks better than 85% of all US zip codes on that dimension. Data is sourced from the US Census Bureau (ACS 5-year estimates) and the FBI Uniform Crime Report.
Demographics & Economics
Score Breakdown
| Dimension | Score | Grade | Interpretation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Safety | 52 | C+ | Lower crime = higher score |
| Affordability | 70 | B+ | Lower cost relative to income = higher |
| Quality of Life | 54 | C+ | Education, commute, ownership |
| Jobs & Economy | 75 | B+ | Lower unemployment = higher |
| Overall | 63 | B | Weighted average |
Methodology
All scores are percentile-based (0–100): a score of 85 means this zip code ranks better than 85% of all US zip codes on that metric. Safety uses FBI Uniform Crime Report state-level data (Phase 2 will add zip-level granularity). Economic and demographic data is from the US Census Bureau American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates (2022).