Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Newton, NC
Considering a move to Newton, NC? This friendly city of 13,168 offers affordable living with a median home price of $192,000 and average rent around $870. Residents enjoy a moderate climate with 63% sunny days, low commute times averaging 21 minutes, and access to quality local schools. While crime rates are a bit above national averages, Newton stands out for its small-town charm, reasonable cost of living, and proximity to major healthcare and educational facilities—making it a great option for families and retirees alike.
Demographics - Newton, NC
Demographics - Newton, NC
Newton, NC is home to around 13,168 residents, with a population density that gives the city a comfortable, small-town feel. The community is diverse, with a majority White population and notable Hispanic and Black communities, and nearly 10% of residents speak a language other than English at home. The median age of 42.2 suggests a balanced mix of families, professionals, and retirees.
Population:
13,168
Density:
1,034 per sq mi
Median Age:
42.2
Gender Ratio:
94 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
9.8%
Ethnic Composition
White:
70.8%
Black:
12.9%
Asian:
1.5%
Others:
3.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Newton, NC?
Living in Newton is budget-friendly, with a median home value of $192,000 and average rent at $870, well below national averages. The cost of living index is 84.5, indicating overall affordability, especially in housing and utilities. State taxes are moderate and everyday expenses such as groceries and healthcare remain reasonable for most households.
Median House Value:
$192,000
Gross Rent:
$870
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,050
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,230
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$430
State Taxes:
Low:
4.75%
|
High:
4.75%
Cost Of Living Index:
84.5
Grocery:
96.3
Housing:
62.1
Utilities:
97.4
Transportation:
88.6
Health Care:
98.9
Miscellaneous:
95.2
Crime
Is Newton, NC a safe place to live?
Newton experiences a slightly higher-than-average crime rate, with property crimes being more common than violent offenses. Residents have a 1 in 50 chance of experiencing a property crime, while violent crime risk remains relatively low at 1 in 526. Overall, many residents find the city’s safety manageable with proper precautions.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
190
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,010
Crime Index:
2,200
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 526
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 50
Weather
What is the weather like in Newton, NC year-round?
Newton enjoys a mild, four-season climate with warm summers reaching highs near 89°F and winters rarely dropping below 30°F. The area gets about 47 inches of rain annually and benefits from 63% sunny days, making it appealing for outdoor activities year-round. Seasonal changes bring comfortable springs and colorful autumns.
Winter
Min:
30°F
Max:
48°F
Spring
Min:
48°F
Max:
74°F
Summer
Min:
66°F
Max:
89°F
Fall
Min:
50°F
Max:
74°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
47 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
63%
Neighbors
Residents in Newton enjoy a median household income of $52,600 and a typical commute of just over 21 minutes, reflecting the city’s convenient size. The community is generally well-educated, with nearly 85% holding at least a high school diploma, though only about 19% have a bachelor’s degree or higher. The local unemployment rate is a low 4%, but about 15% of the population lives below the poverty line.
Median Income:
$32,100
Household Income:
$52,600
Family Income:
$61,200
Per Capita Income:
$26,400
Income Male:
$38,000
Income Female:
$29,000
Poverty Rate:
15.2%
Non English Speakers:
9.8%
Rent:
$870
Unemployment Rate:
4.0%
Public Transport Usage:
0.2%
Commute Time:
21.3 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
84.7%
Bachelors or More:
19.2%
Education
How are the schools in Newton, NC?
The city features a selection of reputable public and private schools, including Newton-Conover High School and South Newton Elementary, both known for manageable class sizes. Higher education is easily accessible with Catawba Valley Community College just five miles away. Families will find a supportive educational environment and opportunities for lifelong learning.
Public Schools
Name:
Newton-Conover High School
Street:
338 W 15th St
Phone:
828-465-0920
Students:
750
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.2
Name:
South Newton Elementary School
Street:
209 W 6th St
Phone:
828-464-4061
Students:
410
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.5
Private Schools
Name:
Concordia Christian Day School
Street:
215 5th Ave SE
Phone:
828-464-3011
Students:
220
Colleges
Name:
Catawba Valley Community College
City:
Hickory
State:
NC
Distance:
5 miles
Students:
4,800
Healthcare
Newton provides strong access to healthcare, featuring Catawba Valley Medical Center nearby and approximately 2.2 physicians per 1,000 residents. Nearly 89% of people have health insurance, and the area’s healthcare index points to quality and affordable medical services. Emergency care and general medical needs are well served within the community.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Catawba Valley Medical Center
Address:
810 Fairgrove Church Rd SE, Hickory, NC 28602
Phone:
(828) 326-3000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.2
Health Insurance Coverage:
88.9%
Health Care Index:
78.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Newton, NC?
Homebuyers will find Newton’s housing market accessible, with a median home price of $192,000 and average rent for a two-bedroom at $870. About 54% of homes are owner-occupied, and the area has a healthy 4.7% annual home appreciation rate, making it attractive for both renters and buyers. Rental vacancies are moderate, giving newcomers reasonable options.
Median Home Price:
$192,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$870
Owner Occupied Rate:
54.1%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.3%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.7%
New Construction Rate:
0.8%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.6%
DMV Information
Newton residents are served by the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles, conveniently located on Fairgrove Church Road in the city. The DMV offers a full range of vehicle and licensing services, with helpful staff and online resources available through the state’s official website. Local access makes registration and renewals straightforward.
State:
North Carolina
Department:
North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles
Address:
1105 Fairgrove Church Rd SE, Building 1, Newton, NC 28658
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.