Hunter Schafer was born in Trenton, New Jersey, to Katy and Mac Schafer. Her father is a Presbyterian minister. She grew up in Raleigh, North Carolina, and from a young age, exhibited a strong artistic inclination, developing skills in drawing and design. This creative foundation would later prove instrumental in her career.

Prior to acting, Schafer gained visibility as a vocal advocate for LGBTQ+ rights. She spoke out against North Carolina's Public Facilities Privacy & Security Act (HB2), also known as the 'bathroom bill,' which restricted transgender individuals' access to public restrooms. Her activism led to opportunities like being featured in 'Teen Vogue', where she discussed her experiences as a transgender woman and her passion for social justice.