Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Darkridge, NC
Considering a move to Darkridge, NC? With a friendly population of 14,300 and a cost of living well below the national average, Darkridge offers affordable housing (median home price: $239,000; rent: $1,040) and a relaxed pace of life. Residents enjoy mild Southern seasons, a reasonable 23-minute average commute, and access to both public and private schools. Crime rates are moderate for the region, and you'll find solid healthcare options nearby. Explore the charm of Darkridge for your next home!
Demographics - Darkridge, NC
Demographics - Darkridge, NC
Darkridge, NC is home to about 14,300 residents, with a median age of 41 and a balanced gender ratio. The city features a diverse community—over 18% of the population identifies as Black, and about 8% are non-English speakers—creating a welcoming environment for all backgrounds.
Population:
14,300
Density:
940 per sq mi
Median Age:
41.2
Gender Ratio:
96 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
8.2%

Ethnic Composition
White:
72.1%
Black:
18.4%
Asian:
1.9%
Others:
7.6%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Darkridge, NC?
The cost of living in Darkridge is notably affordable, with a median home value of $239,000 and average rent around $1,040. Utilities and transportation costs remain below national averages, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious families.
Median House Value:
$239,000
Gross Rent:
$1,040
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,080
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,340
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$410
State Taxes:
Low:
5.25%
|
High:
5.25%
Cost Of Living Index:
89.4
Grocery:
94.0
Housing:
80.2
Utilities:
97.1
Transportation:
92.8
Health Care:
96.5
Miscellaneous:
91.3
Crime
Is Darkridge, NC a safe place to live?
Darkridge experiences moderate crime rates typical for the region, with a violent crime rate of 243 per 100,000 residents and property crime occurring at a rate of about 1 in 43. Residents appreciate a sense of safety while staying aware of local crime prevention efforts.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
243
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,310
Crime Index:
2,553
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 411
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 43
Weather
What is the weather like in Darkridge, NC year-round?
Residents of Darkridge enjoy mild Southern seasons, ranging from winter lows around 32°F to summer highs near 89°F. With 62% sunny days and average annual rainfall of 46 inches, the climate supports active, year-round living.

Winter
Min:
32°F
Max:
50°F

Spring
Min:
49°F
Max:
72°F

Summer
Min:
67°F
Max:
89°F

Fall
Min:
51°F
Max:
73°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
46.0 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
62%
Neighbors
The community in Darkridge is welcoming, with a median household income of $56,900 and a family income of $67,500. Most residents have at least a high school diploma, and the area enjoys a short average commute of about 23 minutes.
Median Income:
$32,800
Household Income:
$56,900
Family Income:
$67,500
Per Capita Income:
$27,400
Income Male:
$38,700
Income Female:
$32,600
Poverty Rate:
15.2%
Non English Speakers:
8.2%
Rent:
$1,040
Unemployment Rate:
4.9%
Public Transport Usage:
0.7%
Commute Time:
23.2 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
87.6%
Bachelors or More:
23.9%
Education
How are the schools in Darkridge, NC?
Families in Darkridge have access to both public and private schooling, with favorable student-teacher ratios in local schools. Higher education is within reach as well, with Blue Ridge Community College just 14 miles away and Western Carolina University a short drive from the city.

Public Schools
Name:
Darkridge High School
Street:
210 Ridge St
Phone:
828-555-3200
Students:
750
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.2
Name:
Pineview Elementary
Street:
512 Pineview Dr
Phone:
828-555-1190
Students:
480
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.5

Private Schools
Name:
St. Margaret's Academy
Street:
33 Oak Ave
Phone:
828-555-7700
Students:
210

Colleges
Name:
Blue Ridge Community College
City:
Flat Rock
State:
NC
Distance:
14 miles
Students:
2,400
Name:
Western Carolina University
City:
Cullowhee
State:
NC
Distance:
41 miles
Students:
11,600
Healthcare
Darkridge residents benefit from local healthcare options, including Darkridge Regional Medical Center and Blue Valley Clinic. With 2 physicians per 1,000 people and 89% of residents covered by health insurance, the city offers convenient access to medical care.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Darkridge Regional Medical Center
Address:
101 Main Street, Darkridge, NC 28100
Phone:
(828) 555-1020
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Blue Valley Clinic
Address:
455 Blue Ridge Rd, Darkridge, NC 28101
Phone:
(828) 555-2145
Type:
Urgent Care
Emergency Services:
No
Physicians Per 1000:
2.0
Health Insurance Coverage:
89.3%
Health Care Index:
70.5
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Darkridge, NC?
The housing market in Darkridge is stable and affordable, with a median home price of $239,000 and 65.7% owner-occupancy. Home values have appreciated by nearly 5% over the past year, and rental options remain accessible with an average vacancy rate of just over 7%.
Median Home Price:
$239,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,040
Owner Occupied Rate:
65.7%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.7%
New Construction Rate:
1.4%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Residents handle vehicle and licensing needs through the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles, conveniently accessible online or at the Raleigh office. The DMV provides comprehensive services, ensuring drivers remain compliant with state regulations.
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.