Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Bryson City, NC
Considering a move to Bryson City, NC? This small mountain town of 1,558 residents offers affordable living with a median home price of $230,000 and average rents around $820. Enjoy a relaxed pace with a 17.9-minute average commute, easy access to nature, and mild summers. Property crime rates are higher than the national average, but the vibrant community, proximity to outdoor recreation, and local schools make Bryson City a unique place to call home in western North Carolina.
Demographics - Bryson City, NC
Demographics - Bryson City, NC
Bryson City is a close-knit mountain community with a population of just over 1,500, where the median age is 45 and residents are predominantly White. The gender balance is fairly even, and about 4% of locals speak a language other than English at home. The town's moderate population density and age profile create a laid-back, small-town atmosphere.
Population:
1,558
Density:
410 per sq mi
Median Age:
45.3
Gender Ratio:
95 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
4.2%
Ethnic Composition
White:
91.2%
Black:
1.6%
Asian:
0.8%
Others:
6.4%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Bryson City, NC?
Living in Bryson City is budget-friendly, with a cost of living index well below the national average and a median home value around $230,000. Renters can expect average monthly rents of $820, and everyday expenses like groceries and utilities remain affordable. North Carolina’s flat income tax rate of 5.25% further supports a cost-effective lifestyle.
Median House Value:
$230,000
Gross Rent:
$820
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$125
Auto Insurance:
$1,020
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,080
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$370
State Taxes:
Low:
5.25%
|
High:
5.25%
Cost Of Living Index:
83.7
Grocery:
92.5
Housing:
67.4
Utilities:
97.1
Transportation:
83.8
Health Care:
92.2
Miscellaneous:
95.0
Crime
Is Bryson City, NC a safe place to live?
Bryson City experiences a higher-than-average property crime rate, with a 1 in 49 chance of being affected, while violent crime is less common at a 1 in 311 chance. Overall, the crime index suggests residents should take basic safety precautions, but many find the community atmosphere welcoming and secure. Local law enforcement is active in maintaining a safe environment.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
322
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,040
Crime Index:
2,362
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 311
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 49
Weather
What is the weather like in Bryson City, NC year-round?
Residents enjoy four distinct seasons, with mild summers reaching highs around 85°F and winters that rarely fall below 25°F. The area receives about 55 inches of annual rainfall and enjoys sunshine about 53% of the year. This climate is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts who appreciate changing scenery and year-round natural beauty.
Winter
Min:
25°F
Max:
48°F
Spring
Min:
38°F
Max:
67°F
Summer
Min:
60°F
Max:
85°F
Fall
Min:
40°F
Max:
70°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
55.0 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
53%
Neighbors
Bryson City’s residents enjoy a median household income of $34,800 and an average commute time under 18 minutes. Most adults have completed high school, with nearly one in five holding a bachelor’s degree or higher. The community is characterized by a friendly, small-town vibe, though some families do experience economic challenges, as reflected in an 18.4% poverty rate.
Median Income:
$28,750
Household Income:
$34,800
Family Income:
$44,900
Per Capita Income:
$22,180
Income Male:
$28,900
Income Female:
$24,900
Poverty Rate:
18.4%
Non English Speakers:
4.2%
Rent:
$820
Unemployment Rate:
4.8%
Public Transport Usage:
0.7%
Commute Time:
17.9 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
86.7%
Bachelors or More:
18.5%
Education
How are the schools in Bryson City, NC?
Families in Bryson City benefit from local public schools with small class sizes, such as Swain County High and Middle Schools, and a nearby private academy. For higher education, Southwestern Community College is just 11 miles away, while Western Carolina University is a short drive for broader academic opportunities. The supportive learning environment and diverse options make the town appealing for students of all ages.
Public Schools
Name:
Swain County High School
Street:
1415 Fontana Rd
Phone:
828-488-2152
Students:
570
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.2
Name:
Swain County Middle School
Street:
135 Arlington Ave
Phone:
828-488-3480
Students:
460
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.7
Private Schools
Name:
Mount Zion Christian Academy
Street:
2415 Governor's Island Rd
Phone:
828-488-2484
Students:
68
Colleges
Name:
Southwestern Community College
City:
Sylva
State:
NC
Distance:
11 miles
Students:
2,700
Name:
Western Carolina University
City:
Cullowhee
State:
NC
Distance:
25 miles
Students:
12,000
Healthcare
Bryson City offers convenient access to healthcare through Swain Community Hospital, which provides emergency and general medical services. With 1.8 physicians per 1,000 residents and nearly 87% health insurance coverage, basic medical needs are well-supported locally. The healthcare index indicates reliable but not extensive medical resources, typical for a rural setting.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Swain Community Hospital
Address:
45 Plateau St, Bryson City, NC 28713
Phone:
(828) 488-2155
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.8
Health Insurance Coverage:
87.1%
Health Care Index:
66.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Bryson City, NC?
Bryson City's housing market is affordable and stable, with a median home price of $230,000 and strong owner-occupancy rates. Rental options remain accessible, and the area has seen a healthy 6.3% home appreciation over the past year. Low foreclosure and vacancy rates suggest a steady demand for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$230,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$850
Owner Occupied Rate:
56.4%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.9%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
6.3%
New Construction Rate:
1.1%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.6%
DMV Information
Residents can access driver and vehicle services at the North Carolina DMV branch located right in Bryson City. The convenient location and the official state website make it easy to handle licensing, registrations, and related needs. Friendly local staff are available to assist with all standard DMV transactions.
State:
North Carolina
Department:
North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles
Address:
1832 US-19, Bryson City, NC 28713
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.