Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Granite Falls, NC
Thinking of moving to Granite Falls, NC? With a small-town feel and a population of about 4,750, Granite Falls offers affordable living with median home prices around $181,000 and average rents at $810. The city features a low violent crime rate of 172 per 100K, commutes averaging just 23 minutes, and over 62% sunny days each year. You'll find friendly neighborhoods, accessible healthcare, and local schools with reasonable class sizes—making Granite Falls a smart choice for families and those seeking a relaxed lifestyle.
Demographics - Granite Falls, NC
Demographics - Granite Falls, NC
Granite Falls is a close-knit community of about 4,750 residents, with a median age of 41.2 and a population density that offers a small-town atmosphere. The city is predominantly White, but also includes Black, Asian, and other ethnic groups, and nearly 8% of residents speak a language other than English at home. The gender ratio is balanced, making the town appealing for families and individuals alike.
Population:
4,750
Density:
1,200 per sq mi
Median Age:
41.2
Gender Ratio:
95 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
7.7%
Ethnic Composition
White:
84.5%
Black:
6.1%
Asian:
1.0%
Others:
8.4%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Granite Falls, NC?
Living in Granite Falls is quite affordable, with a cost of living index well below the national average at 83.1. Median home values are around $181,000 and average rents are $810, making housing accessible for most residents. Everyday expenses, including utilities and groceries, are also budget-friendly, providing a comfortable lifestyle without high costs.
Median House Value:
$181,000
Gross Rent:
$810
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,025
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,180
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$405
State Taxes:
Low:
5.25%
|
High:
5.25%
Cost Of Living Index:
83.1
Grocery:
95.2
Housing:
65.1
Utilities:
97.7
Transportation:
92.3
Health Care:
98.5
Miscellaneous:
93.4
Crime
Is Granite Falls, NC a safe place to live?
Granite Falls boasts a low violent crime rate of 172 per 100,000 people, and the chance of being a victim of property crime is about 1 in 74. Overall, the city offers a safe environment for residents, making it an attractive place for families and retirees. Community vigilance and a small-town atmosphere contribute to the area's security.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
172
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,360
Crime Index:
1,532
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 581
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 74
Weather
What is the weather like in Granite Falls, NC year-round?
Granite Falls experiences all four seasons, with mild winters averaging lows of 29°F and warm summers peaking near 88°F. The city enjoys about 62% sunny days annually and receives an average of 46.5 inches of rainfall. This pleasant climate allows for year-round outdoor activities and a comfortable lifestyle.
Winter
Min:
29°F
Max:
49°F
Spring
Min:
47°F
Max:
71°F
Summer
Min:
65°F
Max:
88°F
Fall
Min:
48°F
Max:
72°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
46.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
62%
Neighbors
The Granite Falls community has a median household income of $44,800 and a poverty rate of 16.2%, reflecting a diverse range of economic backgrounds. Most residents commute about 23 minutes to work, with public transportation usage being minimal. Education levels are strong, with over 85% holding a high school diploma or higher.
Median Income:
$27,100
Household Income:
$44,800
Family Income:
$56,900
Per Capita Income:
$23,700
Income Male:
$37,400
Income Female:
$28,800
Poverty Rate:
16.2%
Non English Speakers:
7.7%
Rent:
$810
Unemployment Rate:
4.7%
Public Transport Usage:
0.2%
Commute Time:
23.1 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
85.3%
Bachelors or More:
17.8%
Education
How are the schools in Granite Falls, NC?
Granite Falls offers well-rated public schools with manageable class sizes, including Granite Falls Elementary and Middle Schools. Families also have access to private education and nearby higher learning institutions like Caldwell Community College just 5 miles away. The community values education, making it a supportive environment for students of all ages.
Public Schools
Name:
Granite Falls Elementary School
Street:
90 N Main St
Phone:
828-396-2222
Students:
520
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.7
Name:
Granite Falls Middle School
Street:
90 North Main St
Phone:
828-396-2341
Students:
600
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.9
Private Schools
Name:
Christian Family Academy
Street:
520 Carpenter St
Phone:
828-396-1381
Students:
100
Colleges
Name:
Caldwell Community College & Technical Institute
City:
Hudson
State:
NC
Distance:
5 miles
Students:
3,800
Name:
Lenoir-Rhyne University
City:
Hickory
State:
NC
Distance:
13 miles
Students:
2,500
Healthcare
Quality healthcare is readily accessible in Granite Falls, with major hospitals like Caldwell Memorial Hospital and Frye Regional Medical Center nearby. There are about 2.2 physicians per 1,000 people and over 86% of residents have health insurance coverage. The area benefits from reliable emergency services and general medical care.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Caldwell Memorial Hospital
Address:
321 Mulberry St SW, Lenoir, NC 28645
Phone:
(828) 757-5100
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Frye Regional Medical Center
Address:
420 N Center St, Hickory, NC 28601
Phone:
(828) 315-5000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.2
Health Insurance Coverage:
86.3%
Health Care Index:
62.8
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Granite Falls, NC?
Granite Falls features an affordable housing market, with a median home price of $181,000 and average two-bedroom rents at $810. Homeownership is common, as nearly 63% of residences are owner-occupied and the area sees a low foreclosure rate. Modest home appreciation and a stable rental market make it a practical choice for buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$181,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$810
Owner Occupied Rate:
62.7%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.2%
New Construction Rate:
1.1%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Residents of Granite Falls are served by the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles, conveniently located in nearby Hickory. The DMV provides essential services such as licensing and vehicle registration, with helpful resources available online and by phone. Access to DMV services is straightforward for local drivers.
State:
North Carolina
Department:
North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles
Address:
1105 E. US 70, Hickory, NC 28602
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.