Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Lenoir, NC
Considering a move to Lenoir, NC? This welcoming city of 18,352 offers affordable living, with median home prices at $161,000 and average rents around $800. Residents enjoy a mild climate with 60% sunny days, short commutes averaging 21 minutes, and close-knit neighborhoods. While crime rates are moderate, the city features accessible healthcare, good local schools, and easy access to scenic mountain recreation—making Lenoir a comfortable and budget-friendly place to call home.
Demographics - Lenoir, NC
Demographics - Lenoir, NC
Lenoir has a population of just over 18,000, with a median age of 42.1, reflecting a balanced mix of families and older adults. The community is predominantly White at 77%, with Black and other ethnicities adding diversity, and about 8% of residents speaking a language other than English at home. The city maintains a moderate population density, offering a comfortable small-town atmosphere.
Population:
18,352
Density:
1,090 per sq mi
Median Age:
42.1
Gender Ratio:
94 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
8.2%
Ethnic Composition
White:
77.3%
Black:
10.5%
Asian:
1.7%
Others:
10.5%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Lenoir, NC?
Living in Lenoir is affordable, with a median home value of $161,000 and average rents near $800, making it attractive for budget-conscious families and retirees. The overall cost of living index is well below the national average, and utilities and groceries remain reasonably priced. State tax rates are steady at 5.25%, helping residents keep more of their income.
Median House Value:
$161,000
Gross Rent:
$800
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$980
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,090
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$390
State Taxes:
Low:
5.25%
|
High:
5.25%
Cost Of Living Index:
82.5
Grocery:
95.8
Housing:
64.3
Utilities:
101.4
Transportation:
87.5
Health Care:
97.9
Miscellaneous:
90.3
Crime
Is Lenoir, NC a safe place to live?
Lenoir experiences moderate crime rates, with violent crime lower than many urban areas and property crime being more common. The chance of experiencing a violent crime is about 1 in 420, while property crime is 1 in 50, so residents benefit from staying vigilant. Overall, the city provides a generally safe environment for families and individuals.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
238
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,010
Crime Index:
2,248
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 420
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 50
Weather
What is the weather like in Lenoir, NC year-round?
Lenoir enjoys a mild four-season climate, with summer highs reaching the mid-80s and winter lows dipping to the upper 20s. Annual rainfall is moderate at just over 46 inches, and the city boasts 60% sunny days, ideal for outdoor activities. Spring and fall are especially pleasant, making the area appealing year-round.
Winter
Min:
28°F
Max:
48°F
Spring
Min:
45°F
Max:
72°F
Summer
Min:
63°F
Max:
86°F
Fall
Min:
47°F
Max:
73°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
46.2 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
60%
Neighbors
Neighborhoods in Lenoir are close-knit, with a median household income of $41,320 and about 20% of residents living below the poverty line. Commute times are short, averaging around 21 minutes, and public transportation usage is low. The community values education, with over 80% of adults holding at least a high school diploma.
Median Income:
$31,800
Household Income:
$41,320
Family Income:
$52,500
Per Capita Income:
$22,900
Income Male:
$37,400
Income Female:
$31,200
Poverty Rate:
20.2%
Non English Speakers:
8.2%
Rent:
$800
Unemployment Rate:
4.6%
Public Transport Usage:
0.6%
Commute Time:
20.8 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
81.6%
Bachelors or More:
17.4%
Education
How are the schools in Lenoir, NC?
Families in Lenoir benefit from a variety of educational options, including public schools with favorable student-teacher ratios and several private institutions. Nearby colleges, such as Caldwell Community College and Appalachian State University, provide opportunities for higher education within easy driving distance. The city supports lifelong learning for residents of all ages.
Public Schools
Name:
William Lenoir Middle School
Street:
332 Greenhaven Dr NW
Phone:
828-726-3910
Students:
590
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.0
Name:
Lower Creek Elementary
Street:
630 Lower Creek Dr NE
Phone:
828-754-4022
Students:
460
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.2
Private Schools
Name:
Heritage Christian School
Street:
PO Box 490, Hudson, NC 28638
Phone:
828-728-8407
Students:
160
Colleges
Name:
Caldwell Community College & Technical Institute
City:
Hudson
State:
NC
Distance:
6 miles
Students:
3,800
Name:
Appalachian State University
City:
Boone
State:
NC
Distance:
27 miles
Students:
20,600
Healthcare
Lenoir residents have access to quality healthcare, anchored by UNC Health Caldwell, a full-service hospital with emergency care. The city offers 1.6 physicians per 1,000 residents and nearly 87% of people have health insurance. Healthcare services are reliable and accessible for families and seniors alike.
Major Hospitals
Name:
UNC Health Caldwell
Address:
321 Mulberry St SW, Lenoir, NC 28645
Phone:
(828) 757-5100
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.6
Health Insurance Coverage:
87.4%
Health Care Index:
71.3
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Lenoir, NC?
The housing market in Lenoir is favorable for both buyers and renters, with a median home price of $161,000 and average rent for a two-bedroom at $800. About 62% of homes are owner-occupied, and vacancy rates remain manageable, offering a range of options for new residents. Home values have appreciated steadily, reflecting a stable and attractive market.
Median Home Price:
$161,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$800
Owner Occupied Rate:
61.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.4%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
5.2%
New Construction Rate:
0.7%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Lenoir's DMV is conveniently located on Blowing Rock Blvd and operated by the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles. Residents can access a full range of vehicle and licensing services locally, with helpful online resources available. This makes handling vehicle registration and licensing straightforward for newcomers.
State:
North Carolina
Department:
North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles
Address:
1420 Blowing Rock Blvd, Lenoir, NC 28645
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.