Moving to Banner Elk, NC?

Banner Elk is a small mountain town with a population of about 1,145, characterized by a youthful median age of 21.3 due in part to the presence of Lees-McRae College. The community is predominantly White, and the area maintains a balanced gender ratio. A modest percentage of residents speak languages other than English, contributing to a welcoming, close-knit atmosphere.

Population:

1,145

Density:

420 per sq mi

Median Age:

21.3

Gender Ratio:

85 males per 100 females

Non-English Speakers Percentage:

4.2%

Ethnic Composition

White:

92.5%

Black:

2.4%

Asian:

1.6%

Others:

3.5%

Is Banner Elk, NC a safe place to live?

Banner Elk enjoys a low crime rate, with violent crimes being especially rare and property crime rates below national averages. Residents have a 1 in 1,220 chance of experiencing violent crime, contributing to a sense of safety and peace of mind. The town's secure environment is appealing for families and retirees alike.

Violent Crimes Per 100k:

82

Property Crimes Per 100k:

1,180

Crime Index:

1,262

Chance Of Violent Crime:

1 in 1,220

Chance Of Property Crime:

1 in 85

Households in Banner Elk have a median income of $54,800, with a family income of $61,500, and a low unemployment rate of 4.7%. Most residents enjoy short commutes averaging 16 minutes, and about 90% have completed high school or higher. While the poverty rate is slightly above average, the town fosters a friendly, community-focused environment.

Median Income:

$26,700

Household Income:

$54,800

Family Income:

$61,500

Per Capita Income:

$19,000

Income Male:

$31,100

Income Female:

$28,500

Poverty Rate:

19.1%

Non English Speakers:

4.2%

Rent:

$1,060

Unemployment Rate:

4.7%

Public Transport Usage:

0.5%

Commute Time:

16.4 minutes

Education

High School or Higher:

89.8%

Bachelors or More:

31.2%

Residents have access to quality healthcare, including nearby Watauga Medical Center and Cannon Memorial Hospital, both offering emergency services. Banner Elk has an above-average physician availability with 2.1 doctors per 1,000 people, and about 90% of residents are insured. The local healthcare system provides essential services for both families and individuals.

Major Hospitals

Name:

Watauga Medical Center

Address:

336 Deerfield Rd, Boone, NC 28607

Phone:

(828) 262-4100

Type:

General & Surgical

Emergency Services:

Yes

Name:

Cannon Memorial Hospital

Address:

434 Hospital Dr, Linville, NC 28646

Phone:

(828) 737-7000

Type:

Critical Access

Emergency Services:

Yes

Physicians Per 1000:

2.1

Health Insurance Coverage:

90.5%

Health Care Index:

78.0

Residents handle vehicle licensing and registration through the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles, located in nearby Wilkesboro. Services can also be accessed online or by phone for added convenience. The DMV provides straightforward options for new arrivals and long-term residents alike.

State:

North Carolina

Department:

North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles

Address:

1801 West Highway 421, Wilkesboro, NC 28697

Phone:

1-919-715-7000

Website:

https://www.ncdot.gov/dmv