Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Bells Cross Roads, NC
Considering a move to Bells Cross Roads, NC? This small, rural community of about 1,100 residents offers affordable living with a median home price around $170,000 and average rent of $920. Crime rates are below national averages, and most commutes are under 30 minutes. While amenities are close-knit, families appreciate local schools and the mild climate, with 60% sunny days and warm summers. Bells Cross Roads is ideal for those seeking a quiet, budget-friendly lifestyle in a friendly setting.
Demographics - Bells Cross Roads, NC
Demographics - Bells Cross Roads, NC
Bells Cross Roads is a small, close-knit community of about 1,100 residents, with a median age of 45.2, reflecting a mature population. The area is predominantly White (70.5%) with a notable Black community (20%) and a balanced gender ratio. The presence of non-English speakers is modest, contributing to the town’s diverse yet familiar atmosphere.
Population:
1,100
Density:
60 per sq mi
Median Age:
45.2
Gender Ratio:
97 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
7.5%

Ethnic Composition
White:
70.5%
Black:
20.0%
Asian:
1.2%
Others:
8.3%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Bells Cross Roads, NC?
Living in Bells Cross Roads is budget-friendly, with a median home value of $170,000 and average rent of $920, both well below national averages. The overall cost of living index is 86.1, indicating affordability across housing, groceries, utilities, and transportation. State taxes remain steady at 5.25%, making it an attractive option for cost-conscious movers.
Median House Value:
$170,000
Gross Rent:
$920
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$125
Auto Insurance:
$1,070
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,100
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$410
State Taxes:
Low:
5.25%
|
High:
5.25%
Cost Of Living Index:
86.1
Grocery:
92.0
Housing:
74.0
Utilities:
97.5
Transportation:
85.5
Health Care:
91.0
Miscellaneous:
90.0
Crime
Is Bells Cross Roads, NC a safe place to live?
Residents enjoy a sense of safety, with violent crime rates at 210 per 100,000 and property crime at 1,450 per 100,000—both lower than many urban areas. The odds of experiencing a violent crime are about 1 in 476, supporting a family-friendly environment. Overall, Bells Cross Roads is considered a low-crime community.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
210
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,450
Crime Index:
1,660
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 476
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 69
Weather
What is the weather like in Bells Cross Roads, NC year-round?
Bells Cross Roads boasts a mild climate, with winters rarely dipping below 32°F and warm summers reaching up to 89°F. The town enjoys around 60% sunny days annually and receives about 49 inches of rainfall, offering pleasant weather for outdoor activities most of the year. Seasonal changes are gentle, making it comfortable for new residents.

Winter
Min:
32°F
Max:
50°F

Spring
Min:
50°F
Max:
74°F

Summer
Min:
69°F
Max:
89°F

Fall
Min:
55°F
Max:
75°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
49.0 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
60%
Neighbors
Households in Bells Cross Roads typically earn around $54,700, with a median income of $36,200, and the poverty rate sits at 13.8%. Most residents commute about 27.5 minutes for work, and public transportation usage is minimal. The area has a solid educational foundation, with 84% holding a high school diploma and a friendly, small-town vibe.
Median Income:
$36,200
Household Income:
$54,700
Family Income:
$62,800
Per Capita Income:
$26,900
Income Male:
$41,000
Income Female:
$32,500
Poverty Rate:
13.8%
Non English Speakers:
7.5%
Rent:
$920
Unemployment Rate:
4.8%
Public Transport Usage:
0.7%
Commute Time:
27.5 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
84.0%
Bachelors or More:
17.5%
Education
How are the schools in Bells Cross Roads, NC?
Families benefit from local public schools like Chinquapin Elementary and East Duplin High, both offering manageable class sizes and strong community involvement. Private education is available at Liberty Christian Academy, and higher education needs are met by James Sprunt Community College just 12 miles away. The area supports educational growth from early childhood through college.

Public Schools
Name:
Chinquapin Elementary School
Street:
341 E. Duplin St
Phone:
910-285-3476
Students:
580
Student Teacher Ratio:
16.2
Name:
East Duplin High School
Street:
394 North NC 111
Phone:
910-298-4535
Students:
822
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.5

Private Schools
Name:
Liberty Christian Academy
Street:
239 NC-24
Phone:
910-285-4171
Students:
110

Colleges
Name:
James Sprunt Community College
City:
Kenansville
State:
NC
Distance:
12 miles
Students:
1,100
Healthcare
Access to healthcare is reliable, with Vidant Duplin Hospital providing comprehensive services nearby and most residents (89.1%) having health insurance coverage. There are approximately 1.3 physicians per 1,000 people, ensuring essential medical care is accessible. The healthcare index reflects moderate availability and quality for a rural area.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Vidant Duplin Hospital
Address:
401 N Main St, Kenansville, NC 28349
Phone:
(910) 296-0941
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.3
Health Insurance Coverage:
89.1%
Health Care Index:
63.8
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Bells Cross Roads, NC?
The housing market in Bells Cross Roads is stable and affordable, with a median home price of $170,000 and 72% of homes owner-occupied. Rental vacancy rates are moderate at 7.2%, and home values have appreciated by 4.9% in the past year. The market is ideal for first-time buyers and those seeking long-term value.
Median Home Price:
$170,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$920
Owner Occupied Rate:
72.0%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.9%
New Construction Rate:
1.0%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Residents are served by the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles, with the main office in Raleigh providing vehicle registration, licensing, and related services. Online resources and support are available through the state's DMV website for added convenience. Local access ensures residents can handle transportation needs efficiently.
State:
North Carolina
Department:
North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles
Address:
1100 New Bern Ave, Raleigh, NC 27697
Phone:
919-715-7000
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.