Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Mabel, NC
Considering a move to Mabel, NC? This small, close-knit mountain community has a population of about 1,500, offering affordable living with median home prices around $210,000 and rents averaging $820. Residents enjoy low crime rates (134 violent crimes per 100k), a short average commute of 25 minutes, and easy access to outdoor recreation. With strong owner-occupancy, a peaceful climate, and access to quality schools and healthcare in nearby Boone, Mabel is ideal for those seeking a quiet, affordable lifestyle in the North Carolina High Country.
Demographics - Mabel, NC
Mabel, NC is a small and predominantly White community of about 1,500 residents, with a median age of 45.2, reflecting a mature and stable population. The area is known for its low population density and a gender ratio close to parity, making it a relaxed and welcoming place for families and retirees. With only 4.5% non-English speakers, the town offers a close-knit and familiar atmosphere.
Population:
1,500
Density:
120 per sq mi
Median Age:
45.2
Gender Ratio:
96 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
4.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
93.0%
Black:
3.0%
Asian:
1.0%
Others:
3.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Mabel, NC?
Living in Mabel is budget-friendly, with a cost of living index of 85.4—well below the national average. Median home values hover around $210,000, and average rent for a two-bedroom is an affordable $820, making it attractive for homebuyers and renters alike. Residents benefit from reasonable utility costs and moderate state tax rates, supporting a comfortable lifestyle.
Median House Value:
$210,000
Gross Rent:
$820
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$125
Auto Insurance:
$1,050
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,150
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$375
State Taxes:
Low:
5.25%
|
High:
5.25%
Cost Of Living Index:
85.4
Grocery:
94.2
Housing:
71.6
Utilities:
97.8
Transportation:
86.2
Health Care:
95.0
Miscellaneous:
89.6
Crime
Is Mabel, NC a safe place to live?
Mabel is a safe community with low crime rates, reporting only 134 violent crimes per 100,000 residents and a 1 in 746 chance of experiencing violent crime. Property crime is also relatively low, contributing to a secure and peaceful environment for families and individuals. This makes Mabel an appealing choice for those prioritizing safety.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
134
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,040
Crime Index:
1,174
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 746
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 96
Weather
What is the weather like in Mabel, NC year-round?
The town enjoys four distinct seasons, with mild summers peaking at 80°F and crisp winters dipping to 23°F. With 58% sunny days and about 55.5 inches of annual rainfall, residents can expect a pleasant climate suited for outdoor adventures. The balanced weather is ideal for those who appreciate a change in seasons without extreme conditions.
Winter
Min:
23°F
Max:
41°F
Spring
Min:
45°F
Max:
68°F
Summer
Min:
59°F
Max:
80°F
Fall
Min:
42°F
Max:
70°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
55.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
58%
Neighbors
Mabel’s residents have a median household income of $50,200 and a low unemployment rate of 3.8%, indicating economic stability. Most neighbors are well-educated, with nearly 90% holding a high school diploma or higher, and the average commute is a manageable 25 minutes. The community is tight-knit, with a low poverty rate and friendly local atmosphere.
Median Income:
$33,000
Household Income:
$50,200
Family Income:
$59,000
Per Capita Income:
$28,500
Income Male:
$36,000
Income Female:
$29,000
Poverty Rate:
13.2%
Non English Speakers:
4.5%
Rent:
$820
Unemployment Rate:
3.8%
Public Transport Usage:
0.5%
Commute Time:
24.8 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
89.8%
Bachelors or More:
28.1%
Education
How are the schools in Mabel, NC?
Families in Mabel have access to quality education, including Bethel Elementary School and nearby private options like Two Rivers Community School. For higher learning, Appalachian State University is just 13 miles away in Boone, offering a range of academic and cultural opportunities. The local schools provide favorable student-teacher ratios and a supportive educational environment.
Public Schools
Name:
Bethel Elementary School
Street:
138 Bethel School Rd
Phone:
828-297-2240
Students:
260
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.5
Private Schools
Name:
Two Rivers Community School
Street:
1018 Archie Carroll Rd
Phone:
828-262-5411
Students:
190
Colleges
Name:
Appalachian State University
City:
Boone
State:
NC
Distance:
13 miles
Students:
20,000
Healthcare
Residents have access to quality healthcare, with Watauga Medical Center just a short drive away in Boone and 2.2 physicians per 1,000 people. Over 90% of locals have health insurance, ensuring that medical needs are well-covered. Mabel’s healthcare index reflects reliable services and peace of mind for families and retirees.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Watauga Medical Center
Address:
336 Deerfield Rd, Boone, NC 28607
Phone:
(828) 262-4100
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.2
Health Insurance Coverage:
90.1%
Health Care Index:
68.4
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Mabel, NC?
Mabel’s housing market is affordable, with a median home price of $210,000 and a strong owner-occupied rate of nearly 78%. Homes have appreciated by 6.3% in the past year, signaling steady growth, while rental options remain accessible with an average two-bedroom rent of $820. Low vacancy and foreclosure rates provide stability for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$210,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$820
Owner Occupied Rate:
77.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.9%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
6.3%
New Construction Rate:
1.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.6%
DMV Information
The North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles serves Mabel residents from its Boone location at 841 Fairview Dr, offering convenient access for vehicle registration and licensing needs. The DMV’s reliable services can be reached by phone or online, making local transportation management straightforward. Residents benefit from the proximity and efficiency of the state’s DMV resources.
State:
North Carolina
Department:
North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles
Address:
841 Fairview Dr, Boone, NC 28607
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.