Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Bethlehem, NC
Thinking of moving to Bethlehem, NC? With a friendly population of about 4,200, Bethlehem offers a quiet, affordable lifestyle—median homes are $220,000, and rents average $925. Residents enjoy low violent crime rates (102 per 100K), short commutes around 24 minutes, and a relaxed, suburban feel. The area features quality local schools, a high rate of homeownership, and a mild climate with 63% sunny days annually. Explore housing, cost of living, and more to see if Bethlehem is your next home!
Demographics - Bethlehem, NC
Demographics - Bethlehem, NC
Bethlehem, NC is home to around 4,200 residents, with a median age of 46.3 and a predominantly White population. The community has a balanced gender ratio and a low percentage of non-English speakers, offering a welcoming, close-knit atmosphere for newcomers.
Population:
4,200
Density:
500 per sq mi
Median Age:
46.3
Gender Ratio:
95 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
4.1%

Ethnic Composition
White:
91.2%
Black:
2.3%
Asian:
0.8%
Others:
5.7%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Bethlehem, NC?
Bethlehem features an affordable cost of living, with a median home value of $220,000 and average rent at $925. The area's cost of living index is below the national average, making it an attractive option for those seeking reasonable housing and everyday expenses.
Median House Value:
$220,000
Gross Rent:
$925
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$950
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,160
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$410
State Taxes:
Low:
5.25%
|
High:
5.25%
Cost Of Living Index:
88.7
Grocery:
92.1
Housing:
75.0
Utilities:
96.0
Transportation:
90.5
Health Care:
98.5
Miscellaneous:
89.0
Crime
Is Bethlehem, NC a safe place to live?
Bethlehem enjoys low crime rates, with only 102 violent crimes per 100,000 residents and a 1 in 980 chance of experiencing violent crime. Property crime is also relatively low, contributing to a safe, peaceful environment for families and individuals.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
102
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,210
Crime Index:
1,312
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 980
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 83
Weather
What is the weather like in Bethlehem, NC year-round?
Residents experience mild weather throughout the year, with summer highs around 88°F and winter lows near 28°F. The area receives about 46.5 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunny conditions 63% of the time, making outdoor activities pleasant in most seasons.

Winter
Min:
28°F
Max:
48°F

Spring
Min:
48°F
Max:
73°F

Summer
Min:
66°F
Max:
88°F

Fall
Min:
47°F
Max:
73°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
46.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
63%
Neighbors
Bethlehem households have a median income of $56,300 and a family income of $66,200, with a poverty rate of 11.8%. Most residents commute about 24 minutes to work, and over 90% have completed high school, reflecting a stable and educated community.
Median Income:
$32,400
Household Income:
$56,300
Family Income:
$66,200
Per Capita Income:
$27,500
Income Male:
$39,200
Income Female:
$29,100
Poverty Rate:
11.8%
Non English Speakers:
4.1%
Rent:
$925
Unemployment Rate:
4.1%
Public Transport Usage:
0.2%
Commute Time:
24.3 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
90.6%
Bachelors or More:
19.3%
Education
How are the schools in Bethlehem, NC?
Bethlehem offers quality public education, with Bethlehem Elementary School serving local students at a 15:1 student-teacher ratio. Higher education options are easily accessible, including Catawba Valley Community College and Lenoir-Rhyne University, both within a short drive.

Public Schools
Name:
Bethlehem Elementary School
Street:
7900 NC-127, Taylorsville, NC 28681
Phone:
828-495-8198
Students:
570
Student Teacher Ratio:
15:1

Colleges
Name:
Catawba Valley Community College
City:
Hickory
State:
NC
Distance:
11 miles
Students:
4,800
Name:
Lenoir-Rhyne University
City:
Hickory
State:
NC
Distance:
12 miles
Students:
2,500
Healthcare
Access to healthcare in Bethlehem is strong, with major hospitals like Catawba Valley Medical Center and Frye Regional Medical Center nearby. The area has 2.1 physicians per 1,000 residents and nearly 88% health insurance coverage, ensuring residents are well-supported for medical needs.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Catawba Valley Medical Center
Address:
810 Fairgrove Church Rd SE, Hickory, NC 28602
Phone:
(828) 326-3000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Frye Regional Medical Center
Address:
420 N Center St, Hickory, NC 28601
Phone:
(828) 315-5000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
87.6%
Health Care Index:
78.5
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Bethlehem, NC?
The local housing market is dominated by homeowners, with an 81.5% owner-occupancy rate and a median home price of $220,000. Rental options are available, with average two-bedroom rents at $950, and the market has seen steady appreciation over the past year.
Median Home Price:
$220,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$950
Owner Occupied Rate:
81.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.6%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.2%
New Construction Rate:
1.1%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.8%
DMV Information
Bethlehem residents are served by the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles, conveniently located in nearby Hickory. The DMV provides comprehensive services including licensing and registration, with information available online or by phone.
State:
North Carolina
Department:
North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles
Address:
1106 US Highway 321 NW, Hickory, NC 28601
Phone:
1-919-715-7000
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.