How Many Cars Are in North Carolina in 2025
Registration Statistics in North Carolina
According to state-level sources, the total number of registered vehicles continues to grow each year. Current estimates suggest the state’s vibrant cities and expanding suburban areas contribute to a consistent uptick in registrations. With improvements in infrastructure and economic development, vehicle registrations have expanded to support daily commuting and commercial activities.
Vehicle Registrations by Year in North Carolina
Below is an overview of total vehicle registrations over the past five years. These numbers combine private passenger vehicles, commercial fleets, and other roadworthy motor vehicles.
| Year | Total Registrations |
|---|---|
| 2020 | 7,500,000 |
| 2021 | 7,700,000 |
| 2022 | 7,900,000 |
| 2023 | 8,100,000 |
| 2024 (projected) | 8,300,000 |
Breakdown by Vehicle Type in North Carolina (2024)
The following breakdown shows estimated figures for the upcoming year, illustrating the most common vehicle classifications.
| Vehicle Type | Registrations (2024) |
|---|---|
| Passenger Cars | 5,200,000 |
| Light Trucks & SUVs | 2,300,000 |
| Motorcycles | 550,000 |
| Commercial Vehicles | 200,000 |
| Other Vehicle Classes | 50,000 |
Registration Statistics by Major Census Areas in North Carolina (2024)
Key metropolitan areas continue to see steady growth, reflecting population shifts and economic patterns.
| Census Area | 2024 Registrations |
|---|---|
| Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia | 2,100,000 |
| Raleigh-Durham-Cary | 1,900,000 |
| Greensboro-Winston-Salem-High Point | 1,200,000 |
| Asheville | 550,000 |
| Wilmington | 400,000 |
Vehicle Registration Counts by Fuel Type in North Carolina
Shifts in consumer preferences and environmental policies are influencing fuel type adoption rates.
| Fuel Type | 2023 Registrations | 2024 (projected) |
|---|---|---|
| Gasoline | 7,000,000 | 7,100,000 |
| Diesel | 600,000 | 620,000 |
| Hybrid | 300,000 | 350,000 |
| Electric | 200,000 | 230,000 |
Useful Links
• NC Department of Motor Vehicles (NCDMV)
• US Department of Transportation (DOT)
• Federal Highway Administration (FHWA)
• US Census Bureau