Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Cullowhee, NC
Thinking of moving to Cullowhee, NC? Home to around 7,400 residents and Western Carolina University, Cullowhee offers affordable living with a median home price of $225,000 and average rent at $1,050. The area enjoys mild mountain weather, low violent crime rates, and short average commute times of 17 minutes. With a youthful population, nearby healthcare, and access to higher education, Cullowhee is a welcoming spot for students, families, and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
Demographics - Cullowhee, NC
Demographics - Cullowhee, NC
Cullowhee is home to about 7,400 residents, with a notably young median age of 21.2 years, reflecting its status as a college town. The community is predominantly White, with modest diversity and a balanced gender ratio. With a population density of 540 per square mile and 4.5% non-English speakers, Cullowhee offers a small-town atmosphere with a vibrant student presence.
Population:
7,400
Density:
540 per sq mi
Median Age:
21.2
Gender Ratio:
86 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
4.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
81.1%
Black:
6.7%
Asian:
2.4%
Others:
9.8%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Cullowhee, NC?
Cullowhee boasts a cost of living index of 88.4, making it more affordable than the national average. Median home values are around $225,000 and average rents are $1,050 per month, while utilities and groceries also remain reasonably priced. State income tax is a flat 5.25%, which helps keep overall expenses manageable for residents.
Median House Value:
$225,000
Gross Rent:
$1,050
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,050
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,185
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$420
State Taxes:
Low:
5.25%
|
High:
5.25%
Cost Of Living Index:
88.4
Grocery:
94.1
Housing:
77.2
Utilities:
97.8
Transportation:
86.3
Health Care:
99.2
Miscellaneous:
90.4
Crime
Is Cullowhee, NC a safe place to live?
Cullowhee experiences a low violent crime rate of 173 per 100,000 people, offering a reassuring sense of safety. Property crime rates are higher, with a 1 in 71 chance, but overall, the area remains safer than many urban centers. Most residents feel secure in this college-oriented community.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
173
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,410
Crime Index:
1,583
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 577
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 71
Weather
What is the weather like in Cullowhee, NC year-round?
Cullowhee enjoys four distinct seasons with mild winters averaging lows of 25°F and warm summers peaking at 83°F. The area receives about 57.6 inches of rainfall annually and sees sunshine on about 57% of days. This mountain climate is ideal for those who appreciate a variety of outdoor activities year-round.
Winter
Min:
25°F
Max:
47°F
Spring
Min:
41°F
Max:
70°F
Summer
Min:
60°F
Max:
83°F
Fall
Min:
43°F
Max:
72°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
57.6 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
57%
Neighbors
The median household income in Cullowhee is $40,200, with a relatively high poverty rate of 34.6%, likely influenced by the student population. Most residents have completed high school, and a significant portion hold bachelor’s degrees. Daily life is convenient with short 17-minute commutes and limited reliance on public transportation.
Median Income:
$18,000
Household Income:
$40,200
Family Income:
$55,700
Per Capita Income:
$15,600
Income Male:
$17,900
Income Female:
$16,800
Poverty Rate:
34.6%
Non English Speakers:
4.5%
Rent:
$1,050
Unemployment Rate:
4.7%
Public Transport Usage:
2.1%
Commute Time:
17.4 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
91.3%
Bachelors or More:
32.1%
Education
How are the schools in Cullowhee, NC?
Cullowhee offers strong educational opportunities, anchored by Western Carolina University with 12,000 students just minutes from downtown. Public school options like Cullowhee Valley School feature favorable student-teacher ratios, while private schools are not present in the immediate area. This educational environment supports both families and students seeking higher education.
Public Schools
Name:
Cullowhee Valley School
Street:
240 Wise School Rd
Phone:
828-293-5667
Students:
800
Student Teacher Ratio:
12.5
Colleges
Name:
Western Carolina University
City:
Cullowhee
State:
NC
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
12,000
Healthcare
Cullowhee residents benefit from proximity to Harris Regional Hospital in nearby Sylva, which offers general and emergency services. There are approximately 2.5 physicians per 1,000 people, and nearly 90% of residents have health insurance. Access to healthcare is generally good for a town of this size.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Harris Regional Hospital
Address:
68 Hospital Rd, Sylva, NC 28779
Phone:
(828) 586-7000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.5
Health Insurance Coverage:
89.6%
Health Care Index:
70.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Cullowhee, NC?
The local housing market is affordable, with a median home price of $225,000 and an average two-bedroom rent of $1,050. Only about 35% of homes are owner-occupied, and the rental vacancy rate sits at 7.1%. Home values have appreciated by 4.2% over the past year, indicating steady growth.
Median Home Price:
$225,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,050
Owner Occupied Rate:
34.8%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.2%
New Construction Rate:
1.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.6%
DMV Information
Vehicle registration, licensing, and other DMV services are managed by the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles. Residents can access services online or visit the main office at 2617 N. Duke Street in Durham, or use local branch offices. The DMV provides comprehensive information and support through its website and customer service line.
State:
North Carolina
Department:
North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles
Address:
2617 N. Duke Street, Durham, NC 27704
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.