Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Franklin, NC
Considering a move to Franklin, NC? With a friendly small-town atmosphere and a population of just over 4,100, Franklin offers affordable living—median home prices are around $198,000 and rents average $775 per month. Residents enjoy a mild mountain climate, quick commutes averaging 18 minutes, and a strong sense of community. While the cost of living is well below national averages, you'll find basic amenities, a local hospital, and highly-rated schools, making Franklin a charming and budget-friendly choice for families and retirees alike.
Demographics - Franklin, NC
Demographics - Franklin, NC
Franklin, NC is a small mountain town with a population of just over 4,100, where the median age is 50.7, indicating a mature community. The majority of residents are White, with a modest percentage of non-English speakers, giving Franklin a friendly, tight-knit feel. The town's population density of 610 people per square mile supports a relaxed, small-town atmosphere.
Population:
4,175
Density:
610 per sq mi
Median Age:
50.7
Gender Ratio:
87 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
5.3%
Ethnic Composition
White:
89.4%
Black:
2.2%
Asian:
1.6%
Others:
6.8%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Franklin, NC?
Living in Franklin is highly affordable, with a median home value of $198,000 and average rent of $775 per month, making it attractive for budget-conscious families and retirees. Utility and transportation costs are also below national averages, supported by a total cost of living index of 85.4. State income tax is moderate at 5.25%, helping residents maintain a comfortable lifestyle.
Median House Value:
$198,000
Gross Rent:
$775
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,050
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,090
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$400
State Taxes:
Low:
5.25%
|
High:
5.25%
Cost Of Living Index:
85.4
Grocery:
94.2
Housing:
67.1
Utilities:
97.3
Transportation:
79.8
Health Care:
98.6
Miscellaneous:
91.5
Crime
Is Franklin, NC a safe place to live?
Franklin experiences a relatively low violent crime rate, with about 186 incidents per 100,000 people, and a 1 in 537 chance of being affected by such crime. Property crime is higher, but still manageable for a small town, with a rate of 2,180 per 100,000 residents. Overall, Franklin remains a safe and welcoming place to call home.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
186
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,180
Crime Index:
2,366
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 537
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 46
Weather
What is the weather like in Franklin, NC year-round?
Franklin enjoys a mild mountain climate, with warm summers averaging highs of 84°F and cool winters with lows around 26°F. The area receives about 54 inches of rainfall annually and boasts 58% sunny days, making it ideal for those who appreciate varied but generally pleasant weather. Residents can enjoy all four seasons in a scenic setting.
Winter
Min:
26°F
Max:
48°F
Spring
Min:
43°F
Max:
72°F
Summer
Min:
61°F
Max:
84°F
Fall
Min:
46°F
Max:
73°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
54.3 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
58%
Neighbors
Franklin’s residents have a median household income of around $38,230, and most neighbors enjoy short average commutes of 18 minutes. The community is predominantly English-speaking, with a high school graduation rate of 84.8%, reflecting a modest but stable standard of living. While the poverty rate is 16.5%, the area’s affordability helps balance local economic challenges.
Median Income:
$26,900
Household Income:
$38,230
Family Income:
$51,400
Per Capita Income:
$22,450
Income Male:
$29,500
Income Female:
$24,200
Poverty Rate:
16.5%
Non English Speakers:
5.3%
Rent:
$775
Unemployment Rate:
4.7%
Public Transport Usage:
0.2%
Commute Time:
18.2 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
84.8%
Bachelors or More:
23.3%
Education
How are the schools in Franklin, NC?
Franklin boasts several well-regarded public and private schools, including Franklin High School and Macon Christian Academy, offering favorable student-to-teacher ratios and strong community involvement. Higher education opportunities are available nearby at Southwestern Community College, located just 21 miles away. The town’s schools provide a solid educational foundation for students of all ages.
Public Schools
Name:
Franklin High School
Street:
100 Panther Dr
Phone:
828-524-6467
Students:
850
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.4
Name:
East Franklin Elementary School
Street:
100 Watauga St
Phone:
828-524-3216
Students:
400
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.7
Private Schools
Name:
Macon Christian Academy
Street:
109 Pauline Ave
Phone:
828-524-5275
Students:
90
Colleges
Name:
Southwestern Community College
City:
Sylva
State:
NC
Distance:
21 miles
Students:
2,800
Healthcare
Franklin offers access to quality healthcare services through Angel Medical Center, which provides general and emergency care. With 1.7 physicians per 1,000 residents and over 91% of locals having health insurance coverage, medical needs are well supported in the community. The healthcare index reflects reasonably good access and affordability for a town of this size.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Angel Medical Center
Address:
120 Riverview St, Franklin, NC 28734
Phone:
(828) 524-8411
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.7
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.6%
Health Care Index:
71.3
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Franklin, NC?
The housing market in Franklin is both affordable and stable, featuring a median home price of $198,000 and average rent for a two-bedroom at $825. With 58.2% owner-occupancy and a home appreciation rate of 6.7% over the past year, the community offers solid investment potential for buyers. Low foreclosure and vacancy rates indicate a healthy, active real estate market.
Median Home Price:
$198,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$825
Owner Occupied Rate:
58.2%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.9%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
6.7%
New Construction Rate:
1.1%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Residents of Franklin access vehicle and licensing services through the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles, conveniently located on Cat Creek Road. The local DMV provides full services and can be reached by phone or online for appointments and information. This ensures that all driving and registration needs are met locally.
State:
North Carolina
Department:
North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles
Address:
470 Cat Creek Rd, Franklin, NC 28734
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.