North Carolina / County

Moving to Forest City, NC

Thinking of making a move to Forest City, NC? Get helpful local information about living costs, neighborhoods, schools, weather, housing, DMV details, and practical relocation details before you plan your move.

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Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Forest City, NC

Considering a move to Forest City, NC? This welcoming community of 7,224 residents offers a blend of suburban charm and convenience, with median home prices around $140,000 and average rents near $830. Commute times average 21 minutes and public transport is accessible, making it great for professionals. The area boasts low violent crime, strong schools, and plenty of sunny days (60% annually), ideal for families and commuters alike. Explore Forest City's cost of living, education, and friendly neighborhoods to see if it's the right fit for your next move.

Demographics - Forest City, NC

Forest City has a population of 7,224 residents, offering a diverse community with a median age of nearly 42 and a balanced gender ratio. The area features a strong blend of backgrounds, with about 69% White, 22% Black, and 1% Asian residents, and over 6% speaking a language other than English at home. Its high population density contributes to a lively suburban atmosphere.

Population
7,224
Density
1,030 per sq mi
Median Age
42.1
Gender Ratio
89 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage
6.1%

Ethnic Composition

White
68.5%
Black
22.4%
Asian
0.8%
Others
8.3%

Cost Of Living

What is the average cost of living in Forest City, NC?

The cost of living in Forest City is higher than the national average, with a cost of living index of 78.2. Median home values are around $140,000 and average rents for a two-bedroom apartment are approximately $830. Utilities, groceries, and transportation costs are also elevated, reflecting the area's desirable location and amenities.

Median House Value
$140,000
Gross Rent
$830
Monthly Electricity Charges
$120
Auto Insurance
$950
House Owner Cost With Mortgage
$1,050
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage
$390
State Taxes
Low: 5.25%| High: 5.25%
Cost Of Living Index
78.2
Grocery
95.4
Housing
60.3
Utilities
98.7
Transportation
81.0
Health Care
104.2
Miscellaneous
93.1

Crime

Is Forest City, NC a safe place to live?

Forest City is considered a safe community, with a low violent crime rate of 359 incidents per 100,000 residents and a property crime chance of 1 in 36. Most residents enjoy peace of mind, making it an attractive choice for families. The crime index remains below many urban areas in North Carolina.

Violent Crimes Per 100k
359
Property Crimes Per 100k
2,750
Crime Index
3,109
Chance Of Violent Crime
1 in 279
Chance Of Property Crime
1 in 36

Weather

What is the weather like in Forest City, NC year-round?

Forest City experiences four distinct seasons, with warm summers reaching highs of 89°F and cold winters dipping to 29°F. The area receives about 49 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine on 60% of days. This climate offers residents a balanced mix of outdoor opportunities year-round.

Winter

Min
29°F
Max
51°F

Summer

Min
66°F
Max
89°F

Spring

Min
45°F
Max
73°F

Fall

Min
47°F
Max
74°F
Average Rainfall Inches
48.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage
60%

Neighbors

The neighborhood boasts a healthy median household income of $36,200 and a low poverty rate of 23.5%. Over 84% of residents have at least a high school diploma, and nearly 15% hold a bachelor's degree or higher. Commute times average 21 minutes, and almost 0% use public transportation, reflecting the area's accessibility and educated population.

Median Income
$28,700
Household Income
$36,200
Family Income
$46,100
Per Capita Income
$20,700
Income Male
$32,800
Income Female
$25,300
Poverty Rate
23.5%
Non English Speakers
6.1%
Rent
$830
Unemployment Rate
4.7%
Public Transport Usage
0.3%
Commute Time
20.8 minutes

Education

High School or Higher
83.6%
Bachelors or More
15.4%

Education

How are the schools in Forest City, NC?

Forest City offers quality education options, with public schools like Forrest W. Hunt Elementary and East Rutherford Middle School known for favorable student-to-teacher ratios. Families also have access to private schools and several nearby colleges, including Isothermal Community College. The community is committed to educational excellence for all age groups.

Public Schools

Name
Forrest W. Hunt Elementary
Street
100 Forrest W Hunt Dr
Phone
828-245-2161
Students
470
Student Teacher Ratio
14.1
Name
East Rutherford Middle School
Street
259 E Church St
Phone
828-245-3750
Students
530
Student Teacher Ratio
15.4

Private Schools

Name
Trinity Christian School
Street
299 Deter St
Phone
828-286-3901
Students
120

Colleges

Name
Isothermal Community College
City
Spindale
State
NC
Distance
3 miles
Students
2,500

Healthcare

Forest City residents have access to quality healthcare, with major hospitals like Rutherford Regional Health System nearby. The community benefits from a high physician-to-resident ratio of 1.4 per 1,000 people and 86.2% health insurance coverage. Local healthcare services are reliable and comprehensive.

Major Hospitals

Name
Rutherford Regional Health System
Address
288 S Ridgecrest Ave, Rutherfordton, NC 28139
Phone
(828) 286-5000
Type
General & Surgical
Emergency Services
Yes

Healthcare Access

Physicians Per 1000
1.4
Health Insurance Coverage
86.2%
Health Care Index
68.7

Housing Market

What is the housing market like in Forest City, NC?

The local housing market is strong, with a median home price of $140,000 and an owner-occupied rate of nearly 48%. The market has seen a 8.2% appreciation over the past year, and rental vacancy rates remain moderate at 9.2%. Forest City offers a mix of stability and opportunity for both buyers and renters.

Median Home Price
$140,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom
$830
Owner Occupied Rate
47.9%
Rental Vacancy Rate
9.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr)
8.2%
New Construction Rate
1.1%
Foreclosure Rate
0.9%

DMV Information

Residents of Forest City handle vehicle services through the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles, conveniently located in Forest City. The state DMV provides driver licensing, vehicle registration, and other essential services both in person and online. Information and resources are easily accessible for new and existing residents.

State
North Carolina
Department
North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles
Address
221 E. Main St, Forest City, NC 28043
Phone
1-919-715-7000

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.

FAQs About Moving to Forest City, NC

Answers use the same city data shown on this page, including costs, housing, schools, safety, weather, healthcare, and DMV details.

Before moving to Forest City, review the core fields on this page: population 7,224, median home value $140,000, average rent for 2 bedroom $830, commute time 20.8 minutes, and sunny days percentage 60%.

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