Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Elk Park, NC
Considering a move to Elk Park, NC? This small mountain town of 445 residents offers a relaxed pace, affordable housing with median home prices around $145,000, and average rents near $760. Crime rates are low, and commutes are easy at just under 30 minutes on average. While the cost of living is below the national average, Elk Park stands out for its cool summers, scenic Blue Ridge views, and close-knit community. Local schools are small, and you’ll find higher education nearby at Lees-McRae College and Appalachian State University.
Demographics - Elk Park, NC
Demographics - Elk Park, NC
Elk Park, NC is a small town with a population of 445, characterized by a predominantly White community and a median age of nearly 49. The population density is moderate, and the area maintains a balanced gender ratio, creating a friendly, close-knit atmosphere.
Population:
445
Density:
420 per sq mi
Median Age:
48.7
Gender Ratio:
98 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
4.1%
Ethnic Composition
White:
95.5%
Black:
1.6%
Asian:
0.2%
Others:
2.7%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Elk Park, NC?
Living in Elk Park is affordable, with a median home value of $145,000 and typical rents around $760. The overall cost of living index is notably below the national average, making it an attractive choice for those seeking value without sacrificing comfort.
Median House Value:
$145,000
Gross Rent:
$760
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$115
Auto Insurance:
$1,020
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$980
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$350
State Taxes:
Low:
5.25%
|
High:
5.25%
Cost Of Living Index:
80.3
Grocery:
92.4
Housing:
62.0
Utilities:
97.5
Transportation:
84.2
Health Care:
92.9
Miscellaneous:
89.0
Crime
Is Elk Park, NC a safe place to live?
Elk Park experiences low crime rates, with residents facing a 1 in 620 chance of violent crime and a 1 in 91 chance of property crime. The town's peaceful setting makes it appealing to families and retirees alike.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
160
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,100
Crime Index:
1,260
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 620
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 91
Weather
What is the weather like in Elk Park, NC year-round?
Elk Park enjoys a mountain climate with cool summers—highs rarely exceed 79°F—and crisp winters, along with about 60% sunny days each year. The area sees nearly 49 inches of annual rainfall, supporting its lush, scenic landscapes.
Winter
Min:
22°F
Max:
40°F
Spring
Min:
38°F
Max:
68°F
Summer
Min:
56°F
Max:
79°F
Fall
Min:
39°F
Max:
68°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
48.6 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
60%
Neighbors
Households in Elk Park have a median income of $36,500, and about 83% of adults hold a high school diploma or higher. While the poverty rate is slightly above average at 19%, most residents commute under 30 minutes and enjoy a quiet, rural lifestyle.
Median Income:
$25,600
Household Income:
$36,500
Family Income:
$43,100
Per Capita Income:
$19,800
Income Male:
$29,400
Income Female:
$23,100
Poverty Rate:
19.3%
Non English Speakers:
4.1%
Rent:
$760
Unemployment Rate:
5.7%
Public Transport Usage:
0.2%
Commute Time:
28.3 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
83.5%
Bachelors or More:
13.0%
Education
How are the schools in Elk Park, NC?
Elk Park offers small class sizes at its local public elementary school and is conveniently located near higher education options like Lees-McRae College and Appalachian State University, providing educational opportunities for all ages.
Public Schools
Name:
Banner Elk Elementary School
Street:
155 Orchard Ln
Phone:
828-898-5310
Students:
250
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.6
Colleges
Name:
Lees-McRae College
City:
Banner Elk
State:
NC
Distance:
4 miles
Students:
1,000
Name:
Appalachian State University
City:
Boone
State:
NC
Distance:
24 miles
Students:
20,000
Healthcare
Residents benefit from access to nearby healthcare facilities like Watauga Medical Center and an above-average rate of health insurance coverage at nearly 88%. With about 1.9 physicians per 1,000 people, basic healthcare needs are well served in the area.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Watauga Medical Center
Address:
336 Deerfield Rd, Boone, NC 28607
Phone:
(828) 262-4100
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.9
Health Insurance Coverage:
87.8%
Health Care Index:
68.4
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Elk Park, NC?
Elk Park’s housing market features affordable options, with a median home price of $145,000 and owner occupancy above 70%. Rental vacancies are low, and home values have appreciated by over 6% in the past year, reflecting steady demand.
Median Home Price:
$145,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$760
Owner Occupied Rate:
73.2%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
6.1%
New Construction Rate:
0.8%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.6%
DMV Information
DMV services for Elk Park are provided by the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles in Boone, offering residents easy access to licensing and vehicle registration both in person and online.
State:
North Carolina
Department:
North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles
Address:
601 Hampton Circle, Boone, NC 28607
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.