Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Purlear, NC
Considering a move to Purlear, NC? This small rural community of about 1,200 residents offers a peaceful lifestyle with a low cost of living and affordable median home prices around $189,000. Residents enjoy a low violent crime rate (120 per 100K), friendly neighborhoods, and beautiful weather with 62% sunny days. Commute times average under 30 minutes, and local schools and healthcare facilities are easily accessible. If you’re seeking tranquility, budget-friendly living, and scenic surroundings, Purlear could be your next home.
Demographics - Purlear, NC
Demographics - Purlear, NC
Purlear is a close-knit rural community with a population of around 1,200 residents, predominantly White, and a median age of 46.2, reflecting a mature and stable population. The area features a balanced gender ratio and low population density, offering plenty of space and a quiet atmosphere. A small percentage of residents speak languages other than English, contributing to the area's modest diversity.
Population:
1,200
Density:
35 per sq mi
Median Age:
46.2
Gender Ratio:
97 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
4.1%
Ethnic Composition
White:
93.0%
Black:
2.5%
Asian:
0.7%
Others:
3.8%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Purlear, NC?
Purlear offers a notably affordable cost of living, with a median home value of $189,000 and average rent around $830, making it attractive for budget-conscious families. Utility and transportation expenses are below the national average, and the overall cost of living index is 82.7. North Carolina’s flat tax rate ensures predictable tax planning for residents.
Median House Value:
$189,000
Gross Rent:
$830
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,010
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,120
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$410
State Taxes:
Low:
5.25%
|
High:
5.25%
Cost Of Living Index:
82.7
Grocery:
91.4
Housing:
62.9
Utilities:
97.2
Transportation:
85.3
Health Care:
94.1
Miscellaneous:
88.6
Crime
Is Purlear, NC a safe place to live?
The community experiences a low violent crime rate of 120 incidents per 100,000 people and a property crime rate of 900 per 100,000, providing peace of mind for families and retirees. Residents enjoy a safer environment than many similarly sized towns, with a 1 in 830 chance of being affected by violent crime. Property crimes remain relatively infrequent, further enhancing Purlear's appeal.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
120
Property Crimes Per 100k:
900
Crime Index:
1,020
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 830
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 133
Weather
What is the weather like in Purlear, NC year-round?
Purlear enjoys four distinct seasons, with mild winters averaging lows of 27°F and warm summers peaking at 84°F. The area receives nearly 50 inches of annual rainfall and boasts 62% sunny days, making it ideal for those who appreciate both lush landscapes and ample sunshine. This climate supports outdoor activities year-round and contributes to the town’s scenic beauty.
Winter
Min:
27°F
Max:
48°F
Spring
Min:
45°F
Max:
68°F
Summer
Min:
63°F
Max:
84°F
Fall
Min:
46°F
Max:
72°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
49.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
62%
Neighbors
Households in Purlear have a median income of $54,000, with a family income of $62,100, reflecting a modest and stable local economy. The community enjoys a low unemployment rate and high rates of high school graduation, while average commutes are just under 30 minutes. A poverty rate of 12.7% and limited public transportation usage highlight the area’s rural character and reliance on personal vehicles.
Median Income:
$37,500
Household Income:
$54,000
Family Income:
$62,100
Per Capita Income:
$28,400
Income Male:
$36,800
Income Female:
$31,100
Poverty Rate:
12.7%
Non English Speakers:
4.1%
Rent:
$830
Unemployment Rate:
4.7%
Public Transport Usage:
0.2%
Commute Time:
29.7 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
84.2%
Bachelors or More:
18.5%
Education
How are the schools in Purlear, NC?
Purlear is served by well-regarded public schools, including Mount Pleasant Elementary and West Wilkes High School, offering favorable student-teacher ratios and supportive learning environments. Higher education is easily accessible at Wilkes Community College, just 13 miles away, catering to both recent graduates and adults seeking continuing education. The community values education, with over 84% of residents holding at least a high school diploma.
Public Schools
Name:
Mount Pleasant Elementary School
Street:
532 Champion Mt Pleasant Rd
Phone:
336-921-3432
Students:
320
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.2
Name:
West Wilkes High School
Street:
6598 Boone Trail
Phone:
336-973-4503
Students:
730
Student Teacher Ratio:
16.8
Colleges
Name:
Wilkes Community College
City:
Wilkesboro
State:
NC
Distance:
13 miles
Students:
3,500
Healthcare
Purlear residents have convenient access to Wilkes Medical Center, a major general and surgical hospital offering emergency services. The area provides an average of 1.5 physicians per 1,000 people and a high health insurance coverage rate of 88.5%. Healthcare is both accessible and affordable, contributing to the community's overall quality of life.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Wilkes Medical Center
Address:
1370 West D St, North Wilkesboro, NC 28659
Phone:
(336) 651-8100
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.5
Health Insurance Coverage:
88.5%
Health Care Index:
72.1
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Purlear, NC?
The Purlear housing market is affordable and stable, with a median home price of $189,000 and an owner-occupancy rate of nearly 78%. Rental options are available, with average rent for a two-bedroom at $830, and the area has seen a healthy home appreciation rate of 6.3% over the past year. Low foreclosure and vacancy rates indicate a strong, appealing market for buyers and renters alike.
Median Home Price:
$189,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$830
Owner Occupied Rate:
77.8%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
9.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
6.3%
New Construction Rate:
0.7%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.6%
DMV Information
Vehicle services for Purlear are provided by the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles located in nearby North Wilkesboro. Residents can access driver licensing, registration, and other DMV services both in person and online. The convenient location and comprehensive website make handling motor vehicle needs straightforward for locals.
State:
North Carolina
Department:
North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles
Address:
801 E. Sunset Dr, North Wilkesboro, NC 28659
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.