Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Monroe, NC
Thinking of moving to Monroe, NC? With a population of nearly 37,000 and a median home price around $274,000, Monroe offers affordable living, mild weather with 63% sunny days, and a growing housing market. Commute times average 27 minutes, and the city features local schools and healthcare, plus easy access to the Charlotte metro area. While property crime rates are above national average, Monroe’s small-town charm, cost-effective lifestyle, and nearby educational options make it a welcoming spot for families and newcomers alike.
Demographics - Monroe, NC
Demographics - Monroe, NC
Monroe, NC is home to nearly 37,000 residents, with a median age of 34 and a diverse community where over half identify as White and about a quarter as Black. The city features a balanced gender ratio and a vibrant multicultural scene, with about 23% of residents speaking a language other than English at home. Its moderate population density offers a blend of small-town comfort and urban accessibility.
Population:
36,968
Density:
1,400 per sq mi
Median Age:
34.2
Gender Ratio:
96 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
23.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
54.2%
Black:
26.6%
Asian:
1.1%
Others:
18.1%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Monroe, NC?
Monroe offers a cost of living below the national average, with a median home value of about $274,000 and typical rent for a two-bedroom apartment around $1,230. Residents benefit from affordable housing and utility costs, making Monroe an attractive option for budget-conscious families and individuals. State taxes are consistent at 5.25%, and everyday expenses such as groceries and transportation remain reasonable.
Median House Value:
$274,000
Gross Rent:
$1,230
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,180
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,560
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$460
State Taxes:
Low:
5.25%
|
High:
5.25%
Cost Of Living Index:
93.6
Grocery:
97.0
Housing:
90.3
Utilities:
97.2
Transportation:
92.0
Health Care:
103.5
Miscellaneous:
95.0
Crime
Is Monroe, NC a safe place to live?
Monroe experiences a property crime rate higher than the national average, with about 2,237 property crimes per 100,000 people, while violent crime remains relatively moderate at 283 incidents per 100,000. The chance of experiencing a violent crime is about 1 in 354, and 1 in 45 for property crime. Residents should take standard safety precautions, especially regarding property security.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
283
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,237
Crime Index:
2,520
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 354
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 45
Weather
What is the weather like in Monroe, NC year-round?
Monroe enjoys a mild climate, with winter lows around 32°F and summer highs reaching 90°F, making it comfortable for outdoor activities year-round. The area receives about 43 inches of rainfall annually and boasts 63% sunny days, providing plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. Seasonal changes are distinct, offering pleasant springs and colorful autumns.
Winter
Min:
32°F
Max:
52°F
Spring
Min:
46°F
Max:
74°F
Summer
Min:
68°F
Max:
90°F
Fall
Min:
51°F
Max:
75°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
43.1 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
63%
Neighbors
Residents in Monroe typically have a household income of about $62,300, with the median family income slightly higher at $70,400. The community is characterized by a strong sense of local connection and diversity, though about 16% of residents live below the poverty line. Most people commute around 27 minutes to work, and the majority rely on personal vehicles rather than public transport.
Median Income:
$39,800
Household Income:
$62,300
Family Income:
$70,400
Per Capita Income:
$24,500
Income Male:
$42,000
Income Female:
$33,000
Poverty Rate:
15.8%
Non English Speakers:
23.5%
Rent:
$1,230
Unemployment Rate:
4.2%
Public Transport Usage:
0.6%
Commute Time:
27.1 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
82.6%
Bachelors or More:
18.3%
Education
How are the schools in Monroe, NC?
Monroe provides a variety of educational opportunities, featuring well-regarded public schools like Monroe High and Rock Rest Elementary, as well as private and charter options such as Union Academy. Higher education is accessible through South Piedmont Community College in town and Wingate University just seven miles away. The city’s educational environment supports lifelong learning for students of all ages.
Public Schools
Name:
Monroe High School
Street:
1 High School Dr
Phone:
704-296-3130
Students:
1,000
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.6
Name:
Rock Rest Elementary School
Street:
2625 Rock Rest Rd
Phone:
704-290-1523
Students:
650
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.9
Private Schools
Name:
Union Academy Charter School
Street:
675 N. MLK Jr Blvd
Phone:
704-283-5678
Students:
1,900
Colleges
Name:
South Piedmont Community College
City:
Monroe
State:
NC
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
6,000
Name:
Wingate University
City:
Wingate
State:
NC
Distance:
7 miles
Students:
3,600
Healthcare
Monroe is served by Atrium Health Union, a major general and surgical hospital offering emergency services, and there are about 1.7 physicians per 1,000 residents. Approximately 84% of the population has health insurance, supporting access to medical care. The area maintains a favorable healthcare index, contributing to the overall well-being of its residents.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Atrium Health Union
Address:
600 Hospital Dr, Monroe, NC 28112
Phone:
(980) 993-3100
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.7
Health Insurance Coverage:
83.6%
Health Care Index:
78.4
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Monroe, NC?
The Monroe housing market is affordable and growing, with a median home price of $274,000 and an annual appreciation rate of 7.1%. About 62% of homes are owner-occupied, and rental options remain accessible with a vacancy rate of 7.5%. The local market appeals to both first-time buyers and renters seeking stable housing options.
Median Home Price:
$274,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,230
Owner Occupied Rate:
62.4%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.5%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
7.1%
New Construction Rate:
1.6%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.6%
DMV Information
Monroe residents are served by the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles located on Highway 74 West. The DMV offers a full range of licensing and vehicle services, with up-to-date information available on the state website or by phone. This convenient local office makes it easy for newcomers and long-term residents to manage their driving needs.
State:
North Carolina
Department:
North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles
Address:
3122 Highway 74 West, Monroe, NC 28110
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.