Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Mars Hill, NC
Considering a move to Mars Hill, NC? This small town of 2,115 offers a relaxed pace with affordable living—median home prices are around $248,000 and average rents near $900. Commute times are short at about 21 minutes, crime rates are low, and you’ll enjoy a mild mountain climate with 59% sunny days. With access to Mars Hill University and great elementary schools, Mars Hill is an inviting place for families, students, and those seeking a peaceful community near Asheville.
Demographics - Mars Hill, NC
Demographics - Mars Hill, NC
Mars Hill is a close-knit community of about 2,100 residents, with a notably young median age of 22.6, reflecting its vibrant college town atmosphere. The population is predominantly White, with a small but diverse mix of other backgrounds, and most residents speak English at home. The town's moderate population density provides a friendly, small-town feel for newcomers.
Population:
2,115
Density:
1,040 per sq mi
Median Age:
22.6
Gender Ratio:
85 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
3.9%

Ethnic Composition
White:
87.1%
Black:
6.8%
Asian:
1.3%
Others:
4.8%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Mars Hill, NC?
Mars Hill offers an affordable cost of living, with median home values at $248,000 and average rents around $900 per month. Everyday expenses, including groceries and utilities, are below the national average, making it an appealing option for budget-conscious individuals and families. North Carolina’s flat state income tax rate of 5.25% also helps keep living costs manageable.
Median House Value:
$248,000
Gross Rent:
$900
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$115
Auto Insurance:
$1,120
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,320
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$415
State Taxes:
Low:
5.25%
|
High:
5.25%
Cost Of Living Index:
87.6
Grocery:
95.5
Housing:
73.2
Utilities:
93.0
Transportation:
86.1
Health Care:
94.2
Miscellaneous:
91.0
Crime
Is Mars Hill, NC a safe place to live?
Safety is a highlight in Mars Hill, where violent crime rates are low—about 113 incidents per 100,000 residents—and the chance of experiencing property crime is 1 in 75. The overall crime index indicates a peaceful environment, making it a reassuring choice for families and students. Residents can enjoy a secure, small-town setting with minimal risk.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
113
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,340
Crime Index:
1,453
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 885
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 75
Weather
What is the weather like in Mars Hill, NC year-round?
Mars Hill experiences all four seasons, with mild summers reaching average highs of 83°F and cool winters dipping to 27°F. The area receives about 44.5 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys 59% sunny days, ideal for outdoor activities year-round. The comfortable mountain climate is a draw for those seeking a temperate environment.

Winter
Min:
27°F
Max:
47°F

Spring
Min:
44°F
Max:
69°F

Summer
Min:
62°F
Max:
83°F

Fall
Min:
46°F
Max:
72°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
44.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
59%
Neighbors
Residents of Mars Hill benefit from a strong sense of community and a median household income of $46,800. While the poverty rate is higher than average at 20.4%, most neighbors have at least a high school education, and commutes are short, averaging just over 21 minutes. The town's low unemployment rate and affordable rent support a relaxed lifestyle.
Median Income:
$23,000
Household Income:
$46,800
Family Income:
$61,200
Per Capita Income:
$19,700
Income Male:
$28,900
Income Female:
$22,200
Poverty Rate:
20.4%
Non English Speakers:
3.9%
Rent:
$900
Unemployment Rate:
4.0%
Public Transport Usage:
0.9%
Commute Time:
21.4 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
89.5%
Bachelors or More:
34.1%
Education
How are the schools in Mars Hill, NC?
Mars Hill places a strong emphasis on education, offering quality public schooling such as Mars Hill Elementary, which serves over 500 students with a favorable student-teacher ratio. The town is also home to Mars Hill University, providing higher education opportunities within walking distance. These resources make the area attractive for families and students seeking both primary and collegiate options.

Public Schools
Name:
Mars Hill Elementary School
Street:
200 School House Lane
Phone:
828-689-2922
Students:
510
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.5

Colleges
Name:
Mars Hill University
City:
Mars Hill
State:
NC
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
1,100
Healthcare
Mars Hill residents have access to quality healthcare, with Mission Hospital in nearby Asheville providing comprehensive emergency and general medical services. There are 2.2 physicians per 1,000 people, and nearly 90% of locals have health insurance coverage. The area’s healthcare index reflects reliable services and resources for families and individuals.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Mission Hospital
Address:
509 Biltmore Ave, Asheville, NC 28801
Phone:
(828) 213-1111
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.2
Health Insurance Coverage:
89.7%
Health Care Index:
78.4
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Mars Hill, NC?
The Mars Hill housing market features a median home price of $248,000 and an owner-occupied rate of nearly 62%, making homeownership accessible for many. Rental options are available, with average two-bedroom rents at $900 and a healthy vacancy rate of 7.2%. Home values have appreciated by 6.1% over the past year, signaling a stable and growing market.
Median Home Price:
$248,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$900
Owner Occupied Rate:
61.8%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
6.1%
New Construction Rate:
1.1%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Vehicle and licensing services for Mars Hill residents are managed by the North Carolina DMV, with the nearest office located at 110 Spring St in Marshall. Helpful staff and online resources make it easy to handle car registration, driver’s licenses, and related needs. For convenience, most services can be accessed through the DMV’s official website.
State:
North Carolina
Department:
North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles
Address:
110 Spring St, Marshall, NC 28753
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.