Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Kinston, NC
Considering a move to Kinston, NC? This welcoming city of 19,900 offers an affordable cost of living with median home prices around $114,000 and average rents near $820. Commutes are a breeze at just 18 minutes on average, and the mild, sunny climate brings 62% sunny days each year. While Kinston features a strong community and low housing costs, crime rates are higher than average; however, you'll find friendly neighbors and access to local healthcare and schools. Explore the details below to see if Kinston fits your lifestyle needs.
Demographics - Kinston, NC
Demographics - Kinston, NC
Kinston is home to about 19,900 residents, with a population density of 1,300 people per square mile and a median age of 41.7. The city boasts a diverse community, with a majority Black population and a smaller proportion of non-English speakers, contributing to its unique local culture.
Population:
19,900
Density:
1,300 per sq mi
Median Age:
41.7
Gender Ratio:
86 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
5.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
30.5%
Black:
64.3%
Asian:
0.6%
Others:
4.6%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Kinston, NC?
Living in Kinston is highly affordable, with a median house value around $114,000 and average rents of $820, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious movers. The overall cost of living index is well below the national average, especially for housing and utilities, allowing residents to stretch their dollars further.
Median House Value:
$114,000
Gross Rent:
$820
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,100
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,050
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$375
State Taxes:
Low:
4.75%
|
High:
4.75%
Cost Of Living Index:
77.5
Grocery:
93.1
Housing:
46.4
Utilities:
98.3
Transportation:
82.0
Health Care:
104.2
Miscellaneous:
95.0
Crime
Is Kinston, NC a safe place to live?
Kinston experiences higher-than-average crime rates, with a chance of property crime at 1 in 18 and violent crime at 1 in 89. While safety is a concern, being aware of neighborhoods and community resources can help residents make informed decisions.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
1,120
Property Crimes Per 100k:
5,500
Crime Index:
6,620
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 89
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 18
Weather
What is the weather like in Kinston, NC year-round?
Residents enjoy a mild climate, with winter lows averaging 34°F and summer highs reaching 89°F. The area receives about 49 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine 62% of the year, making for pleasant weather most seasons.
Winter
Min:
34°F
Max:
54°F
Spring
Min:
51°F
Max:
74°F
Summer
Min:
68°F
Max:
89°F
Fall
Min:
52°F
Max:
76°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
49.2 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
62%
Neighbors
Kinston's households have a median income of about $36,900, and the area faces a higher poverty rate compared to national averages. Most residents have at least a high school diploma, and daily commutes are short, averaging under 20 minutes, fostering a close-knit, accessible community.
Median Income:
$39,400
Household Income:
$36,900
Family Income:
$48,500
Per Capita Income:
$22,300
Income Male:
$34,800
Income Female:
$27,900
Poverty Rate:
28.3%
Non English Speakers:
5.5%
Rent:
$820
Unemployment Rate:
7.5%
Public Transport Usage:
0.7%
Commute Time:
18.4 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
81.7%
Bachelors or More:
15.4%
Education
How are the schools in Kinston, NC?
Kinston offers a variety of educational opportunities, including public and private schools with manageable class sizes, as well as nearby colleges like Lenoir Community College. Families and students benefit from local options for both K-12 and higher education within the city and surrounding area.
Public Schools
Name:
Kinston High School
Street:
2601 N Queen St
Phone:
252-527-8067
Students:
725
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.5
Name:
Northeast Elementary School
Street:
2100 N Edwards St
Phone:
252-527-4161
Students:
500
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.2
Private Schools
Name:
Arendell Parrott Academy
Street:
500 Greenhill Rd
Phone:
252-522-4222
Students:
1,200
Colleges
Name:
Lenoir Community College
City:
Kinston
State:
NC
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
2,600
Name:
East Carolina University
City:
Greenville
State:
NC
Distance:
28 miles
Students:
28,000
Healthcare
Healthcare in Kinston is anchored by UNC Lenoir Health Care, offering comprehensive services and emergency care. With 2 physicians per 1,000 residents and over 86% health insurance coverage, essential medical needs are well-supported locally.
Major Hospitals
Name:
UNC Lenoir Health Care
Address:
100 Airport Rd, Kinston, NC 28501
Phone:
(252) 522-7000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.0
Health Insurance Coverage:
86.1%
Health Care Index:
67.0
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Kinston, NC?
Kinston's housing market is favorable for buyers and renters, with median home prices around $114,000 and average two-bedroom rents at $820. Nearly half of the homes are owner-occupied, and the market is seeing modest appreciation, making it a stable option for settling down.
Median Home Price:
$114,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$820
Owner Occupied Rate:
48.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
10.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
5.2%
New Construction Rate:
0.5%
Foreclosure Rate:
1.0%
DMV Information
The North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles serves Kinston at a convenient local office, providing essential services for drivers and vehicle owners. Residents can easily access DMV resources both in person and online for licensing, registration, and more.
State:
North Carolina
Department:
North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles
Address:
1306 W. Vernon Ave, Kinston, NC 28501
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.