Demographics
Wake Forest is an essential part of the Research Triangle Region located in central North Carolina and across the street from Raleigh, the state capital. Now home to more than 60,000 residents, and a growing business base, Wake Forest stands as a vibrant community in one of the nation’s fastest-growing regions.
Wake Forest, North Carolina boasts above average demographics that reflect regional trends in population growth, education and workforce talent, opportunity, and quality of life. Discover more Wake Forest demographics in our Community Profile.
2024 Animated Community Profile
We teamed up with Wake Forest-based Roseland Pictures to create an amazing showcase of our remarkable demographic statistics. In this animation, you will find the latest updates on the community’s rapidly evolving data indicators while taking an exciting journey through Wake Forest!
Population Characteristics
Workforce
The highly educated and experienced workforce in Wake Forest is a primary factor in the big-city success of our thriving town and region. Our world-class universities and community colleges offer unprecedented training for a vast array of highly specialized skills and trades. Learn more about Workforce and Training.
Transportation
Within minutes of Wake Forest is an abundance of diverse transportation that will provide your business outstanding access to the region, state, nation and globe. Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) is 22 miles from downtown Wake Forest (~30 minute drive time) and home to 14 major airlines that fly 48 nonstop destinations on 600+ daily flights. Learn more about Transportation.
Education
As part of the Research Triangle Region, Wake Forest residents and businesses have easy access to three Tier One research universities, Duke University, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and North Carolina State University, as well as another eight four-year colleges and universities and several high-performing community college campuses. Learn more about Education.
Taxes and Utilities
The Research Triangle Region is regularly cited as one of the best places to do business in the nation. North Carolina’s corporate income tax rate is 2.5%, the lowest in the United States, and is scheduled to phase out entirely by 2030. To complement the low rate, a variety of incentives are available at the municipal, county, and state levels for companies looking to locate, grow, and expand here. Learn more about North Carolina and Wake Forest Taxes and Incentives.
Development
Out of 550 peers across North Carolina, Wake Forest is the 8th fastest growing municipality. While steeped in history and Southern charm, Wake Forest is just as dynamic and forward thinking. As a result, commercial and residential growth continue to climb rapidly as businesses and people are drawn to the community. Learn more about active Wake Forest Developments.
