Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Fontana Dam, NC
Considering a move to Fontana Dam, NC? This tiny mountain village, with a population of just 8, offers tranquil living at a low cost—median home prices are around $165,000 and rents average $800. Enjoy a mild climate, low crime rates, and scenic beauty near the Great Smoky Mountains. While amenities are minimal and the nearest schools and hospitals are a drive away, Fontana Dam is perfect for those seeking peace, outdoor adventure, and a close-knit rural lifestyle.
Demographics - Fontana Dam, NC
Demographics - Fontana Dam, NC
Fontana Dam, NC is a tiny, close-knit community of only 8 residents, with a median age of 60 and all identifying as White. The population density is extremely low, offering plenty of open space and a quiet lifestyle, while the gender ratio is evenly balanced.
Population:
8
Density:
2 per sq mi
Median Age:
60
Gender Ratio:
100 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
0.0%
Ethnic Composition
White:
100.0%
Black:
0.0%
Asian:
0.0%
Others:
0.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Fontana Dam, NC?
Fontana Dam provides affordable living, with a median house value of $165,000 and average rent around $800. The overall cost of living index is well below the national average, making it an attractive destination for those seeking a budget-friendly rural lifestyle.
Median House Value:
$165,000
Gross Rent:
$800
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,050
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$980
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$410
State Taxes:
Low:
5.25%
|
High:
5.25%
Cost Of Living Index:
84.0
Grocery:
92.0
Housing:
65.0
Utilities:
97.0
Transportation:
84.0
Health Care:
94.0
Miscellaneous:
89.0
Crime
Is Fontana Dam, NC a safe place to live?
Residents of Fontana Dam experience very low crime rates, with violent crime being rare and property crime uncommon. The low crime index provides peace of mind, contributing to the village’s reputation for safety and tranquility.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
120
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,100
Crime Index:
1,220
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 833
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 91
Weather
What is the weather like in Fontana Dam, NC year-round?
Fontana Dam enjoys a mild mountain climate with warm summers reaching up to 85°F and winters that typically stay above 25°F. The area sees about 59 inches of rainfall per year and receives sunshine roughly 54% of the time, making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.
Winter
Min:
25°F
Max:
48°F
Spring
Min:
45°F
Max:
70°F
Summer
Min:
60°F
Max:
85°F
Fall
Min:
40°F
Max:
68°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
59 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
54%
Neighbors
The surrounding area features modest household incomes, with a median of $29,000 and a poverty rate of about 19%. Most residents commute by car, with an average time of 31 minutes, and the community reflects a strong sense of rural simplicity and self-reliance.
Median Income:
$29,000
Household Income:
$35,000
Family Income:
$38,000
Per Capita Income:
$22,000
Income Male:
$26,000
Income Female:
$21,000
Poverty Rate:
18.7%
Non English Speakers:
0.0%
Rent:
$800
Unemployment Rate:
5.2%
Public Transport Usage:
0.0%
Commute Time:
31.0 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
82.0%
Bachelors or More:
18.0%
Education
How are the schools in Fontana Dam, NC?
Educational options are limited within Fontana Dam itself, but families can access public schools like Robbinsville Elementary and higher education at Western Carolina University, located 36 miles away. The student-to-teacher ratio in local schools supports a personalized learning environment.
Public Schools
Name:
Robbinsville Elementary School
Street:
268 Sweetwater Rd
Phone:
828-479-9822
Students:
470
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.2
Colleges
Name:
Western Carolina University
City:
Cullowhee
State:
NC
Distance:
36 miles
Students:
12,000
Healthcare
Access to healthcare is available nearby, with Swain Community Hospital providing general and emergency services within driving distance. Most residents have health insurance coverage, and there are 1.3 physicians per 1,000 people, ensuring essential medical care is within reach.
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:
1.3
Health Insurance Coverage:
87.0%
Health Care Index:
68.0
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Fontana Dam, NC?
Fontana Dam’s housing market is affordable, with median home prices around $165,000 and an owner-occupied rate of 78%. Home values have seen moderate appreciation, and rental options are limited but reasonably priced, contributing to the area’s stable and accessible market.
Median Home Price:
$165,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$800
Owner Occupied Rate:
78.0%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.5%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.6%
New Construction Rate:
0.5%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Residents are served by the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles, with services accessible online or via the main Raleigh office. The DMV provides all standard licensing and registration support for Fontana Dam locals.
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.