Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Mills River, NC
Considering a move to Mills River, NC? This scenic small town of about 7,200 residents offers a relaxed mountain lifestyle with a median home price of $425,000 and average rents near $1,250. Mills River boasts low crime rates (103 violent crimes per 100K) and quick commutes averaging 22 minutes, plus excellent access to outdoor recreation and sunny weather. With strong local schools, abundant green spaces, and a welcoming community, Mills River is ideal for those seeking a safe, affordable, and nature-rich setting in western North Carolina.
Demographics - Mills River, NC
Demographics - Mills River, NC
Mills River is a close-knit community of approximately 7,200 residents, characterized by a predominantly White population and a median age of 48.3 years, reflecting a mature and settled demographic. The area offers moderate population density and a nearly balanced gender ratio, making it well-suited for families and retirees alike.
Population:
7,200
Density:
270 per sq mi
Median Age:
48.3
Gender Ratio:
97 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
5.2%
Ethnic Composition
White:
93.7%
Black:
1.8%
Asian:
0.8%
Others:
3.7%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Mills River, NC?
Living in Mills River is slightly above the national average, with a cost of living index of 102.1 and a median house value of $425,000. While housing costs are somewhat higher, utilities and groceries remain close to national norms, making daily expenses manageable for most households.
Median House Value:
$425,000
Gross Rent:
$1,250
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,060
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,720
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$520
State Taxes:
Low:
5.25%
|
High:
5.25%
Cost Of Living Index:
102.1
Grocery:
99.8
Housing:
109.2
Utilities:
97.5
Transportation:
96.3
Health Care:
99.6
Miscellaneous:
97.2
Crime
Is Mills River, NC a safe place to live?
Mills River enjoys a notably low crime rate, with just 103 violent crimes per 100,000 residents and a 1 in 970 chance of experiencing violent crime. Property crime is also relatively uncommon, providing residents with a strong sense of safety and security.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
103
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,010
Crime Index:
1,113
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 970
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 99
Weather
What is the weather like in Mills River, NC year-round?
Residents experience four distinct seasons, with mild winters averaging lows of 28°F and warm summers peaking at 84°F. The area receives about 44 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine around 62% of the year, making it ideal for outdoor activities.
Winter
Min:
28°F
Max:
48°F
Spring
Min:
40°F
Max:
69°F
Summer
Min:
62°F
Max:
84°F
Fall
Min:
43°F
Max:
70°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
44 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
62%
Neighbors
The community features a median household income of $72,300 and a low poverty rate of 7.1%. Most neighbors are well-educated, with over 92% holding at least a high school diploma, and average commute times are a convenient 22.5 minutes.
Median Income:
$44,500
Household Income:
$72,300
Family Income:
$85,200
Per Capita Income:
$36,900
Income Male:
$48,900
Income Female:
$37,200
Poverty Rate:
7.1%
Non English Speakers:
5.2%
Rent:
$1,250
Unemployment Rate:
3.4%
Public Transport Usage:
0.8%
Commute Time:
22.5 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
92.1%
Bachelors or More:
32.8%
Education
How are the schools in Mills River, NC?
Mills River offers quality educational opportunities, with local public schools like Mills River Elementary and West Henderson High serving the community. Nearby options include private schools and higher education institutions such as Blue Ridge Community College and UNC Asheville, providing a range of academic choices.
Public Schools
Name:
Mills River Elementary School
Street:
94 School House Rd
Phone:
828-891-6563
Students:
530
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.1
Name:
West Henderson High School
Street:
3600 Haywood Rd
Phone:
828-891-6571
Students:
1,090
Student Teacher Ratio:
16.2
Private Schools
Name:
Immaculata Catholic School
Street:
711 Buncombe St, Hendersonville, NC
Phone:
828-693-3277
Students:
220
Colleges
Name:
Blue Ridge Community College
City:
Flat Rock
State:
NC
Distance:
7 miles
Students:
2,400
Name:
University of North Carolina at Asheville
City:
Asheville
State:
NC
Distance:
17 miles
Students:
3,400
Healthcare
Mills River is served by nearby hospitals such as AdventHealth Hendersonville and Mission Hospital, ensuring access to a range of medical services and emergency care. With 2.6 physicians per 1,000 residents and nearly 89% of the population insured, healthcare is reliable and accessible.
Major Hospitals
Name:
AdventHealth Hendersonville
Address:
100 Hospital Dr, Hendersonville, NC 28792
Phone:
(828) 681-2150
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Mission Hospital
Address:
509 Biltmore Ave, Asheville, NC 28801
Phone:
(828) 213-1111
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.6
Health Insurance Coverage:
88.9%
Health Care Index:
72.3
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Mills River, NC?
The housing market in Mills River is robust, with a median home price of $425,000 and an owner-occupancy rate of 80.2%. The area sees steady home appreciation and low foreclosure rates, making it attractive for both buyers and long-term residents.
Median Home Price:
$425,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,250
Owner Occupied Rate:
80.2%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
7.2%
New Construction Rate:
2.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Residents can access driver and vehicle services through the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles office in nearby Hendersonville. The DMV provides comprehensive support for licensing, registration, and other transportation needs.
State:
North Carolina
Department:
North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles
Address:
125 Baystone Dr, Hendersonville, NC 28791
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.