Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Murphy, NC
Considering a move to Murphy, NC? This charming small town of 1,630 residents offers affordable living, with median home prices around $195,000 and average rents at $780. Murphy boasts a crime rate close to national averages, a low average commute of just under 20 minutes, and abundant sunny days (61%) in a mild mountain climate. With well-rated local schools, key hospital access, and plenty of community spirit, Murphy is a welcoming choice for those seeking a relaxed pace and natural Appalachian beauty.
Demographics - Murphy, NC
Demographics - Murphy, NC
Murphy, NC is a small community of 1,630 people with a median age of 51.6, reflecting a mature population. The town is predominantly White (almost 90%) and features a balanced gender ratio, with about 7% of residents speaking a language other than English at home. Its low population density and diverse backgrounds create a friendly, close-knit atmosphere.
Population:
1,630
Density:
430 per sq mi
Median Age:
51.6
Gender Ratio:
92 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
7.3%
Ethnic Composition
White:
89.5%
Black:
2.2%
Asian:
0.7%
Others:
7.6%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Murphy, NC?
Living in Murphy is quite affordable, with a median home value of $195,000 and average rents around $780 per month. The overall cost of living index is significantly below the national average, making everyday expenses and housing accessible for most budgets. State taxes remain moderate, further supporting an economical lifestyle.
Median House Value:
$195,000
Gross Rent:
$780
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,010
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,140
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$370
State Taxes:
Low:
4.75%
|
High:
5.25%
Cost Of Living Index:
81.2
Grocery:
95.7
Housing:
65.3
Utilities:
95.4
Transportation:
82.9
Health Care:
86.0
Miscellaneous:
88.5
Crime
Is Murphy, NC a safe place to live?
Murphy experiences a relatively low violent crime rate, with a resident's chance of being affected at about 1 in 455. Property crime is more common, but the overall crime index is close to national averages, providing peace of mind for most families. Residents enjoy a generally safe and secure environment.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
220
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,540
Crime Index:
1,760
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 455
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 65
Weather
What is the weather like in Murphy, NC year-round?
Murphy enjoys a mild mountain climate, with warm summers averaging highs around 84°F and winters staying above freezing. The area receives about 58 inches of rainfall annually and sees sunshine 61% of the year, making it ideal for outdoor activities and enjoying the Appalachian scenery. Seasonal changes are distinct yet comfortable.
Winter
Min:
27°F
Max:
50°F
Spring
Min:
42°F
Max:
69°F
Summer
Min:
60°F
Max:
84°F
Fall
Min:
45°F
Max:
72°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
58.3 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
61%
Neighbors
Murphy's neighborhoods are defined by a median household income of $40,200 and a poverty rate of 17.5%, reflecting a modest but stable community. Most adults (86%) have at least a high school diploma, and residents benefit from short average commutes of about 20 minutes. The area features a strong sense of local connection and affordability.
Median Income:
$26,400
Household Income:
$40,200
Family Income:
$49,300
Per Capita Income:
$23,900
Income Male:
$32,000
Income Female:
$25,000
Poverty Rate:
17.5%
Non English Speakers:
7.3%
Rent:
$780
Unemployment Rate:
4.6%
Public Transport Usage:
0.2%
Commute Time:
19.8 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
86.4%
Bachelors or More:
18.2%
Education
How are the schools in Murphy, NC?
Murphy offers quality educational options, including public schools like Murphy High and Murphy Elementary with favorable student-teacher ratios. A local charter school and nearby Tri-County Community College provide additional choices for families and adult learners. The community values education, with a strong rate of high school completion among residents.
Public Schools
Name:
Murphy High School
Street:
234 High School Cir
Phone:
828-837-2426
Students:
410
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.5
Name:
Murphy Elementary School
Street:
1350 Valley River Ave
Phone:
828-837-2424
Students:
500
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.9
Private Schools
Name:
The Learning Center Charter School
Street:
945 Conaheeta St
Phone:
828-835-7240
Students:
205
Colleges
Name:
Tri-County Community College
City:
Murphy
State:
NC
Distance:
2 miles
Students:
1,100
Healthcare
Murphy is served by Erlanger Western Carolina Hospital, providing comprehensive general and emergency care to the community. With nearly 85% of residents covered by health insurance and 1.8 physicians per 1,000 people, access to healthcare is reliable. The healthcare index also indicates generally favorable conditions for medical services.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Erlanger Western Carolina Hospital
Address:
3990 E US Highway 64 Alt, Murphy, NC 28906
Phone:
(828) 837-8161
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.8
Health Insurance Coverage:
84.7%
Health Care Index:
67.3
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Murphy, NC?
Murphy’s housing market is attractive for buyers and renters alike, with median home prices at $195,000 and rent for a two-bedroom averaging $780. About two-thirds of homes are owner-occupied, and home values have appreciated by over 6% in the past year. Low vacancy and foreclosure rates make the market stable for newcomers.
Median Home Price:
$195,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$780
Owner Occupied Rate:
67.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.9%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
6.3%
New Construction Rate:
0.7%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.6%
DMV Information
DMV services in Murphy are provided by the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles at 137 Peachtree St, making it convenient for residents to handle licensing and registration locally. The office is easily accessible, and more information is available through the state DMV website or by phone. Local access streamlines required vehicle and driver services.
State:
North Carolina
Department:
North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles
Address:
137 Peachtree St, Murphy, NC 28906
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.