Median Income
$98,467
31% higher than US avg
Home Value
$430,100
53% higher than US avg
Violent Crime
519/100K
37% higher than US avg
Bachelor's+
61.8%
83% higher than US avg
Median Rent
$1,349
16% higher than US avg
Obesity Rate
31.1%
3% lower than US avg
Unemployment
3.1%
14% lower than US avg
Poverty Rate
4.0%
68% lower than US avg
How Hillsborough Compares to the U.S. Average (100% = U.S. avg)
People
Population9,656
Median Age43.6 yrs
Density1,676/mi²
Male / Female46% / 54%
Largest GroupWhite 75%
Veterans6.5%
Economy
A+
Median Income$98,467
Per Capita$54,024
Unemployment3.1%
Poverty4.0%
County GDP$13,069M
Commute21 min
Housing
A
Home Value$430,100
Rent$1,349
Ownership63.7%
Zillow$464,419
Housing Units4,331
Rent Burden31.0%
Crime
F
Violent519/100K
Property5,354/100K
Murder0.0/100K
Assault355/100K
Burglary410/100K
Health
Obesity31.1%
Uninsured9.4%
Smoking11.6%
Depression24.8%
Heart Disease4.8%
Climate
Avg Temp60°F (15°C)
AQI40 (Good)
Rain47.2 in/yr
Sunny Days305/yr
Elevation553 ft (169 m)
Education
A+
Bachelor's+61.8%
High School+92.2%
Graduate+26.8%
School Score7.21
Community
2024 VoteR 24% / D 75%
Commute21 min
Broadband96.5%
EV Stations9
Libraries3
Is Hillsborough a Good Place to Live?
Based on current data, Hillsborough receives an overall livability score of 3.8 out of 5.0, earning a grade of B+. Key strengths include above-average household incomes, low unemployment, a highly educated population, abundant sunshine. Areas to be aware of include elevated crime rates, high housing costs. Hillsborough offers a solid quality of life with a good balance of affordability, safety, and opportunity.
Economy & Jobs
The median household income in Hillsborough is $98,467, which is significantly higher than the national average / 31% above $75,149. This places Hillsborough among higher-income communities. Unemployment stands at 3.1%, indicating a healthy job market. Only 4.0% of residents live below the poverty line, well below the national rate of 12.4%. Workers commute an average of 21 minutes.
Cost of Living & Housing
The median home value in Hillsborough is $430,100, making it a premium housing market at 53% above the U.S. median of $281,900. Renters pay a median of $1,349 per month. A price-to-income ratio of 4.4x indicates a reasonably affordable housing market.
Safety & Crime
The violent crime rate of 519 per 100,000 is above the national average of 380 / something for prospective residents to consider. Property crime occurs at a rate of 5,354 per 100,000, 173% above the national average.
Education
Hillsborough is a highly educated community / 61.8% of adults hold a bachelor's degree or higher, well above the national average of 33.7%. 92.2% have completed high school. Local schools score 7.2/10 in standardized testing, reflecting strong academic performance.
Climate & Weather
Hillsborough enjoys a moderate climate with an average annual temperature of 60°F. Winters average 39°F in January while summers reach 80°F in July. With 305 sunny days per year, residents enjoy well above the national average of sunshine. Annual precipitation totals 47.2 inches. Air quality is rated Good with a median AQI of 40.
Hillsborough has a population of 9,656 with a density of 1,676 people per square mile, spread across 4.6 square miles. The median age is 43.6 years, 12% older than the national median of 38.9. The gender split is 53.6% female and 46.4% male. The city is predominantly White (74.8%), with 1.3% Hispanic, 9.1% Black. English is the primary language spoken at home by 91.2% of residents, while 8.8% speak Spanish. 6.5% of the population are veterans. 10.9% of residents have a disability. 93.5% have health insurance coverage.
Population
43.6yrs
Median Age
12% above US avg
Race & Ethnicity
Hillsborough vs U.S. Average
Language Spoken at Home
English Only
91.2%
16% above US avg
Spanish
8.8%
34% below US avg
Social Characteristics
Hillsborough vs U.S. Average
The median household income in Hillsborough is $98,467, which is 31% above the national average of $75,149. Per capita income is $54,024 (above the $39,052 national figure). The average weekly wage is $1,524. The unemployment rate is 3.1% (below the 3.6% US average). 4.0% of residents live below the poverty line, lower than the national rate of 12.4%. The area has 5,494 business establishments, including 326 restaurants. The cost of living index is 94.3, below the national baseline of 100 / offering relatively affordable living. Workers commute an average of 21 minutes (shorter than the 28-minute US average). 28.3% of workers work from home (above the 15.2% national rate).
Income: Hillsborough vs U.S.
Income
| Median HH Income | $98,467 |
| 31% above US avg |
| Per Capita Income | $54,024 |
| Avg Weekly Wage | $1,524 |
| IRS Avg AGI | $129,336 |
| Gini Index | 0.514 (0=equal, 1=unequal) |
Employment & Poverty
| Unemployment | 3.1% |
| 14% below US avg |
| Poverty Rate | 4.0% |
| 68% below US avg |
| Establishments (County) | 5,494 |
| County GDP | $13,069M |
Business (County)
| Restaurants | 326 |
| Healthcare | 449 |
| Retail | 338 |
| Manufacturing | 68 |
Tax & Cost of Living
| Property Tax (IRS) | $8,233 |
| 135% above US avg |
| Cost of Living | 94.30 (100=avg) |
| Effective Tax Rate | 1.91% |
Commute & Transportation
| Commute Time | 21.3 min |
| Drive Alone | 64.0% |
| Public Transit | 0.8% |
| Work from Home | 28.3% |
The median home value in Hillsborough is $430,100, 53% above the national median of $281,900. Zillow estimates the typical home value at $464,419. Homes sell for 99.6% of their list price. Monthly rent averages $1,349 (16% above the national average of $1,163). Fair market rent ranges from $981 for a one-bedroom to $1,161 for a two-bedroom apartment. 63.7% of housing units are owner-occupied. There are 4,331 total housing units in the city. The median year a home was built is 1994. The average annual property tax is $8,233 (higher than the $3,500 national average). 31.0% of renters spend 30% or more of their income on housing. The home price-to-income ratio is 4.4x.
Home Values
| Census Median | $430,100 |
| 53% above US avg |
| Zillow ZHVI | $464,419 |
| Median List Price | $455,970 |
Real Estate Market (Redfin)
| Median List Price | $455,970 |
| $/Sq Ft | $221 |
| Homes Sold | 9 |
| Sale-to-List Ratio | 99.6% |
| Price Drops | 10.3% |
| Inventory | 29 |
Rental Costs
| Census Median Rent | $1,349 |
| 16% above US avg |
| Zillow Rent (ZORI) | $1,643 |
| Rent Burden | 31.0% |
HUD Fair Market Rent
| Studio | $932 |
| 1 Bedroom | $981 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,161 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,499 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,780 |
Ownership & Property
| Homeownership | 63.7% |
| Owner-Occupied | 63.7% |
| Renter-Occupied | 36.3% |
| Housing Units | 4,331 |
| Median Year Built | 1994 |
Property Tax
| Avg Tax (IRS) | $8,233 |
| 135% above US avg |
| Effective Rate | 1.91% |
In Hillsborough, 31.1% of adults are obese, below the national rate of 32.1%. 9.2% have diabetes. Heart disease affects 4.8% of residents, below the national average. 30.8% have high blood pressure. 11.6% are current smokers. 16.2% report binge drinking. 19.6% are physically inactive, below the national average. 24.8% report depression (above the 20.0% national average). 16.2% experience frequent mental distress. 9.4% of residents lack health insurance. The primary care physician ratio is 1:549. The dentist ratio is 1:429. 83.4% of residents have access to exercise opportunities. The food environment index is 8.6 out of 10.
Health Metrics: Hillsborough vs U.S. Average (%)
Chronic Conditions
| Obesity | 31.1% |
| 3% below US avg |
| Diabetes | 9.2% |
| Heart Disease | 4.8% |
| High Blood Pressure | 30.8% |
| Asthma | 10.7% |
| COPD | 5.2% |
| Cancer | 7.0% |
| Stroke | 2.7% |
Behaviors & Mental Health
| Smoking | 11.6% |
| 17% below US avg |
| Binge Drinking | 16.2% |
| Physical Inactivity | 19.6% |
| Depression | 24.8% |
| Mental Distress | 16.2% |
| Physical Distress | 10.7% |
| Short Sleep | 31.7% |
Healthcare Access
| Insurance Rate | 93.5% |
| Uninsured | 9.4% |
| 9% above US avg |
| Primary Care | 1:549 |
| Dentists | 1:429 |
| Mental Health | 1:121 |
| Checkup Rate | 78.4% |
| Dental Visits | 69.1% |
| Premature Death | 5,802/100K |
Food & Exercise
| Food Environment | 8.6/10 |
| Exercise Access | 83.4% |
| Healthcare Facilities | 449 |
Hillsborough has a violent crime rate of 519 per 100,000 residents, 37% above the national average of 380. This breaks down to aggravated assault at 355.1 per 100,000, robbery at 150.3, rape at 13.7. The murder rate is 0.0 per 100,000 (below the national rate of 6.3). Property crime stands at 5,354 per 100,000, 173% above the U.S. average. This includes larceny/theft at 4,781, burglary at 410, vehicle theft at 164 per 100,000 residents. The county recorded 18 fatal traffic crashes. Overall, Hillsborough receives a safety grade of F.
Crime Rates: Hillsborough vs U.S. Average (per 100,000)
Violent Crime
| Total Violent | 519.1/100K |
| 37% above US avg |
| Murder | 0.0/100K |
| 100% below US avg |
| Rape | 13.7/100K |
| Robbery | 150.3/100K |
| Assault | 355.1/100K |
Property Crime
| Total Property | 5,354.5/100K |
| 173% above US avg |
| Burglary | 409.8/100K |
| Theft | 4,780.8/100K |
| Vehicle Theft | 163.9/100K |
| Arson | 0.0/100K |
Traffic Safety
| Fatal Crashes (County/yr) | 18 |
| Traffic Accidents | 651 |
| Avg Accident Severity | 2.4 / 4.0 |
Safety Score
| Safety Grade | F |
| Safety Score | 1.0 / 5.0 |
Hillsborough enjoys a temperate climate with an average annual temperature of 60°F (15°C). Winters average 39°F in January while summers reach 80°F in July. The area gets 305 sunny days per year, well above the U.S. average of 205 / making it one of the sunnier locations in the country. Annual precipitation totals 47.2 inches (wetter than the 38-inch national average). Air quality is rated Good with a median AQI of 40. The city sits at an elevation of 553 feet.
Temperature
39°F Jan (4°C)
80°F Jul (26°C)
| Annual Average | 59.5°F |
| 10% above US avg |
| January Average | 39°F (4°C) |
| July Average | 80°F (26°C) |
| Sunny Days | 305 days/yr |
Geography
| Elevation | 553 ft (169 m) |
| Area | 4.6 sq mi (11.9 km²) |
| Population Density | 1,676/sq mi |
| Coordinates | 36.0779°N, 79.0980°W |
| Timezone | America/New_York |
| County | Orange County County |
| Nearest Airport | Raleigh-Durham International (RDU) 22 miles away |
Precipitation & Snow
Annual Rainfall
47.2"
24% above US avg
Wettest Month (Jul)
4.33"
Air Quality
| AQI Median | 40.0 |
| Rating | Good |
Natural Hazard Risk
| Overall Risk | Relatively Low |
| Risk Score | 79.1 / 100 |
| Social Vulnerability | 16.6 / 100 |
| Community Resilience | 93.6 / 100 |
Hazard Breakdown
| Tornado |
Relatively Moderate |
| Hurricane |
Relatively Moderate |
| Earthquake |
Relatively Low |
| Wildfire |
Very Low |
| Flood |
Relatively Moderate |
| Hail |
Relatively Moderate |
| Strong Wind |
Relatively Moderate |
| Heat Wave |
Relatively Moderate |
| Winter Weather |
Relatively High |
| Lightning |
Relatively High |
| Ice Storm |
Relatively Moderate |
| Drought |
Relatively Low |
| Cold Wave |
Relatively Low |
| Landslide |
Very Low |
Source: FEMA National Risk Index v1.20 (Dec 2025)
Earthquake History
3 earthquakes (M2.5+) within 150 km since 1990.
Strongest: M2.7. Most recent: M2.5 on Mar 26, 2019.
| Aug 18, 2000 |
2 km SSE of Narrows, Virginia |
M2.7 |
145 km |
| Jul 12, 1993 |
5 km SW of Greensboro, North Carolina |
M2.7 |
65 km |
| Mar 26, 2019 |
8 km E of Archdale, North Carolina |
M2.5 |
72 km |
Source: USGS (M2.5+, 1990–2025)
Hurricane History
16 hurricanes (Cat 1+) within 500 km since 1980.
Strongest: Category 4. Most recent: Isaias (2020, Cat 1).
| Year |
Name |
Category |
Closest |
| 2020 |
Isaias |
Category 1 |
248 km |
| 2019 |
Dorian |
Category 2 |
297 km |
| 2018 |
Florence |
Category 2 |
240 km |
| 2016 |
Matthew |
Category 1 |
277 km |
| 2014 |
Arthur |
Category 2 |
273 km |
| 2011 |
Irene |
Category 1 |
259 km |
| 2005 |
Ophelia |
Category 1 |
280 km |
| 2004 |
Charley |
Category 1 |
256 km |
| 2003 |
Isabel |
Category 2 |
143 km |
| 1999 |
Floyd |
Category 2 |
211 km |
| 1998 |
Bonnie |
Category 3 |
223 km |
| 1996 |
Fran |
Category 3 |
104 km |
| 1996 |
Bertha |
Category 2 |
181 km |
| 1989 |
Hugo |
Category 2 |
238 km |
| 1986 |
Charley |
Category 1 |
272 km |
| 1984 |
Diana |
Category 4 |
242 km |
Source: NOAA IBTrACS (Cat 1+, 1980–2026)
Tornado History
279 tornadoes (EF0+) within 100 km since 1950.
Strongest: EF4. Total: 19 fatalities, 473 injuries.
| Date |
Rating |
Distance |
Fatalities |
| Nov 27, 1988 |
EF4 |
39 km |
4 |
| Apr 16, 2011 |
EF3 |
85 km |
6 |
| Mar 28, 2010 |
EF3 |
89 km |
0 |
| Mar 20, 1998 |
EF3 |
87 km |
2 |
| Nov 23, 1992 |
EF3 |
7 km |
2 |
| Nov 23, 1992 |
EF3 |
77 km |
0 |
| Mar 24, 1969 |
EF3 |
67 km |
1 |
| Oct 7, 1965 |
EF3 |
81 km |
1 |
| Mar 15, 1953 |
EF3 |
96 km |
0 |
| Sep 27, 2024 |
EF2 |
80 km |
0 |
| May 13, 2019 |
EF2 |
66 km |
0 |
| Apr 19, 2019 |
EF2 |
20 km |
0 |
| Nov 2, 2018 |
EF2 |
86 km |
0 |
| Apr 15, 2018 |
EF2 |
60 km |
0 |
| Feb 24, 2016 |
EF2 |
58 km |
0 |
| Apr 27, 2011 |
EF2 |
78 km |
1 |
| Apr 16, 2011 |
EF2 |
42 km |
0 |
| Oct 27, 2010 |
EF2 |
59 km |
0 |
| May 5, 2009 |
EF2 |
100 km |
0 |
| May 8, 2008 |
EF2 |
83 km |
1 |
Source: NOAA SPC (EF0+, 1950–2024)
Wildfire History
2 wildfires (100+ acres) within 100 km.
Largest: OVERHILLS (1,436 ac, 2006).
| Year |
Name |
Acres |
Distance |
| 2006 |
OVERHILLS |
1,436 |
95 km |
| 2008 |
HIGHWAY 1 |
766 |
58 km |
Source: NIFC/IRWIN (100+ acres)
Monthly Weather
| Month |
Avg Temperature |
Precipitation |
Summary |
| January |
39°F (4°C) |
3.9 in |
Coldest |
| February |
41°F (5°C) |
3.6 in |
|
| March |
49°F (10°C) |
4.2 in |
|
| April |
58°F (14°C) |
3.2 in |
Driest |
| May |
66°F (19°C) |
4.3 in |
|
| June |
73°F (23°C) |
3.9 in |
|
| July |
80°F (26°C) |
4.3 in |
Warmest, Wettest |
| August |
76°F (24°C) |
4.3 in |
|
| September |
70°F (21°C) |
3.7 in |
|
| October |
59°F (15°C) |
3.6 in |
|
| November |
50°F (10°C) |
3.4 in |
|
| December |
42°F (5°C) |
3.3 in |
|
Hillsborough has a seasonal temperature swing of 40°F / from 39°F in January to 80°F in July. Total annual precipitation is 45.5 inches, with July being the wettest month (4.3") and April the driest (3.2").
Average costs for common services in Hillsborough. Prices are estimated based on regional cost of living data and may vary by provider.
Healthcare
| Doctor Visit (Primary Care) |
$236 ($141–$377) |
| Specialist Visit |
$330 ($189–$519) |
| Urgent Care Visit |
$189 ($94–$330) |
| Emergency Room Visit |
$2,075 ($754–$4,715) |
| Dental Cleaning |
$123 ($71–$189) |
| Dental Filling |
$236 ($141–$377) |
View all 40 services
Auto Repair
| Oil Change (Conventional) |
$42 ($24–$71) |
| Oil Change (Synthetic) |
$71 ($47–$113) |
| Brake Pad Replacement |
$283 ($141–$472) |
| Tire Rotation |
$38 ($19–$71) |
| New Tires (Set of 4) |
$566 ($377–$943) |
| Battery Replacement |
$189 ($94–$330) |
View all 18 services
Home Services
| Plumber (Per Hour) |
$94 ($57–$141) |
| Electrician (Per Hour) |
$85 ($47–$132) |
| HVAC Repair |
$377 ($141–$754) |
| HVAC System Install |
$6,601 ($3,772–$11,316) |
| Roof Repair |
$943 ($377–$1,886) |
| Roof Replacement |
$8,487 ($5,187–$14,145) |
View all 25 services
Legal
| Divorce (Uncontested) |
$1,415 ($472–$3,301) |
| Divorce (Contested) |
$14,145 ($4,715–$28,290) |
| DUI Defense |
$4,715 ($1,886–$9,430) |
| Bankruptcy (Chapter 7) |
$1,415 ($754–$2,829) |
| Will Preparation |
$472 ($189–$943) |
| Trust Preparation |
$2,358 ($943–$4,715) |
View all 12 services
Personal Care
| Men's Haircut |
$24 ($14–$42) |
| Women's Haircut |
$52 ($28–$94) |
| Hair Coloring (Full) |
$141 ($71–$236) |
| Manicure |
$24 ($14–$42) |
| Pedicure |
$38 ($24–$61) |
| Massage (1 Hour) |
$75 ($47–$123) |
View all 12 services
Food & Grocery
| Gallon of Milk (per gallon) |
$3.87 ($2.83–$5.19) |
| Dozen Eggs (per dozen) |
$3.30 ($2.36–$4.72) |
| Loaf of Bread |
$3.58 ($2.36–$5.19) |
| Chicken Breast (per lb) |
$4.24 ($2.83–$6.13) |
| Ground Beef (per lb) |
$5.19 ($3.77–$7.07) |
| Rice (per lb) |
$0.94 ($0.57–$1.70) |
View all 20 services
Utilities
| Electricity (Monthly) |
$132 ($75–$236) |
| Natural Gas (Monthly) |
$66 ($28–$141) |
| Water/Sewer (Monthly) |
$66 ($38–$113) |
| Internet (Monthly) |
$66 ($38–$94) |
| Cell Phone Plan (Monthly) |
$61 ($28–$94) |
| Cable TV (Monthly) |
$80 ($47–$141) |
View all 8 services
Transportation
| Monthly Parking (Downtown) |
$189 ($71–$472) |
| Car Insurance (Annual) |
$1,886 ($1,132–$3,301) |
| Bus Pass (Monthly) |
$66 ($28–$123) |
| Taxi/Uber (5-Mile Ride) |
$14 ($7.54–$24) |
| Car Registration (Annual) |
$94 ($28–$236) |
| Driver's License Renewal |
$28 ($14–$71) |
View all 8 services
Education & Childcare
| Daycare (Infant, Monthly) |
$1,132 ($566–$2,358) |
| Daycare (Toddler, Monthly) |
$943 ($472–$1,886) |
| After-School Care (Monthly) |
$377 ($189–$660) |
| Tutoring (Per Hour) |
$47 ($24–$94) |
| SAT/ACT Prep Course |
$943 ($377–$2,358) |
| Private School (K-12, Annual) |
$11,788 ($4,715–$28,290) |
View all 8 services
Pets
| Vet Visit (Routine Checkup) |
$57 ($28–$94) |
| Dog Vaccination (Annual) |
$94 ($47–$189) |
| Dog Grooming |
$57 ($28–$94) |
| Pet Boarding (Per Night) |
$38 ($19–$71) |
| Dog Spay/Neuter |
$283 ($141–$472) |
| Cat Spay/Neuter |
$189 ($94–$377) |
View all 9 services
Childcare
| Center-Based (monthly) |
| Infant | $1,537 |
| Toddler | $1,266 |
| Preschool | $860 |
| Family Childcare (monthly) |
| Infant | $1,172 |
| Toddler | $979 |
| Preschool | $968 |
Source: DOL Women's Bureau (2022)
Frequently Asked Questions About Hillsborough
What is the population of Hillsborough?
Hillsborough has a population of 9,656 residents and is located in North Carolina. The population density is 1,676 people per square mile, spread across 4.6 square miles. The median age of residents is 43.6 years, which is older than the national median of 38.9 years. The population is 53.6% female and 46.4% male.
Is Hillsborough expensive to live in?
Hillsborough is more affordable than the national average, with a cost of living index of 94.3 / below the baseline of 100. The median household income is $98,467, 31% above the national average of $75,149. The median home value is $430,100 (53% above the U.S. median). Renters pay a median of $1,349 per month, above the national average of $1,163. The home price-to-income ratio is 4.4x, indicating housing is reasonably affordable relative to local income levels.
Is Hillsborough safe?
The violent crime rate in Hillsborough is 519 per 100,000 residents, above the national average of 380. Prospective residents should research specific neighborhoods, as crime rates can vary significantly within the city. Property crime occurs at a rate of 5,354 per 100,000 (above the national average). Overall, Hillsborough receives a safety grade of F based on combined crime data.
What is the weather like in Hillsborough?
Hillsborough enjoys a temperate climate with an average annual temperature of 60°F (15°C). Winter temperatures average 39°F in January, while summers reach an average of 80°F in July. The area receives 305 sunny days per year, well above the national average of 205. Annual rainfall totals 47.2 inches. Air quality is rated Good with a median Air Quality Index (AQI) of 40.
How is the job market in Hillsborough?
Hillsborough has a healthy job market with an unemployment rate of 3.1%, near the national average of 3.6%. The average weekly wage is $1,524. There are 5,494 business establishments in the area, including 326 restaurants and food service locations. The average commute time is 21 minutes, and 28.3% of workers work from home.
How much does housing cost in Hillsborough?
The median home value in Hillsborough is $430,100. Zillow estimates the typical home value at $464,419. For renters, the median monthly rent is $1,349. Fair market rent is $981 for a 1-bedroom and $1,161 for a 2-bedroom apartment. The homeownership rate is 63.7%. The average annual property tax is $8,233.
How are the schools in Hillsborough?
Schools in Hillsborough perform well, with an average test score of 7.2 out of 10 / above the national benchmark. 61.8% of adults in Hillsborough hold a bachelor's degree or higher, above the national average of 33.7%. 92.2% have completed high school. 26.8% hold a graduate or professional degree.
How healthy is Hillsborough?
The obesity rate in Hillsborough is 31.1% (below the national rate of 32.1%). 11.6% of adults are smokers. 19.6% are physically inactive. 24.8% of residents report depression. 9.4% lack health insurance. 83.4% of residents have access to exercise opportunities. The primary care physician ratio is 1:549.
What is transportation like in Hillsborough?
The average commute in Hillsborough is 21 minutes, shorter than the national average of 28 minutes. 64% of workers drive alone to work, and 28.3% work from home.
What are the demographics of Hillsborough?
The racial and ethnic makeup of Hillsborough is 74.8% White, 9.1% Black or African American, 1.3% Hispanic or Latino. 91.2% of residents speak only English at home, while 8.8% speak Spanish. 6.5% of the population are military veterans. 10.9% of residents have a disability. 93.5% have health insurance coverage.