Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Rutherfordton, NC
Considering a move to Rutherfordton, NC? With a friendly population of just over 4,100, this historic small town offers a low cost of living—median home prices are $157,000 and average rents around $810. Residents enjoy a mild climate with 61% sunny days and short 21-minute commutes. Rutherfordton’s schools are rated strong for the region, and the local hospital ensures convenient healthcare. While crime rates are a bit above national averages, the town’s affordability, scenic charm, and tight-knit community make it a welcoming place to call home.
Demographics - Rutherfordton, NC
Demographics - Rutherfordton, NC
Rutherfordton is home to about 4,166 residents, offering a small-town atmosphere with a predominantly White population and a median age of 44.2 years. The community has a balanced gender ratio and a modest proportion of non-English speakers, fostering a diverse yet close-knit environment.
Population:
4,166
Density:
870 per sq mi
Median Age:
44.2
Gender Ratio:
88 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
5.6%
Ethnic Composition
White:
77.1%
Black:
14.4%
Asian:
1.2%
Others:
7.3%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Rutherfordton, NC?
The cost of living in Rutherfordton is notably affordable, with a median home value of $157,000 and average rents around $810. Utilities and other everyday expenses remain below the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and families.
Median House Value:
$157,000
Gross Rent:
$810
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,050
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:
82.1
Grocery:
93.0
Housing:
62.8
Utilities:
95.6
Transportation:
82.7
Health Care:
94.2
Miscellaneous:
95.0
Crime
Is Rutherfordton, NC a safe place to live?
Crime rates in Rutherfordton are slightly higher than average, with residents facing a 1 in 450 chance of encountering violent crime and a 1 in 50 chance of property crime. While overall safety is a consideration, many find the town’s strong sense of community reassuring.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
222
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,010
Crime Index:
2,232
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 450
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 50
Weather
What is the weather like in Rutherfordton, NC year-round?
Rutherfordton enjoys a mild climate, featuring winter lows around 29°F and summer highs reaching 87°F. The area receives over 50 inches of rainfall annually and boasts 61% sunny days, making it appealing for those who appreciate distinct but gentle seasons.
Winter
Min:
29°F
Max:
49°F
Spring
Min:
45°F
Max:
71°F
Summer
Min:
65°F
Max:
87°F
Fall
Min:
47°F
Max:
71°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
50.2 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
61%
Neighbors
Residents of Rutherfordton benefit from a median household income of $46,800 and an average commute time of about 21 minutes. The community is well-educated, with nearly 89% holding at least a high school diploma, and most neighbors enjoy a friendly, laid-back lifestyle.
Median Income:
$28,550
Household Income:
$46,800
Family Income:
$55,900
Per Capita Income:
$22,300
Income Male:
$35,400
Income Female:
$28,800
Poverty Rate:
18.6%
Non English Speakers:
5.6%
Rent:
$810
Unemployment Rate:
4.9%
Public Transport Usage:
0.2%
Commute Time:
20.8 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
88.8%
Bachelors or More:
20.7%
Education
How are the schools in Rutherfordton, NC?
Rutherfordton supports quality education through its public and private schools, including Rutherfordton Elementary and Thomas Jefferson Classical Academy, and is conveniently located near Isothermal Community College. Students benefit from favorable student-teacher ratios and a range of academic opportunities.
Public Schools
Name:
Rutherfordton Elementary School
Street:
201 Green St
Phone:
828-287-3778
Students:
500
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.5
Name:
R-S Middle School
Street:
545 Charlotte Rd
Phone:
828-287-3480
Students:
630
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.2
Private Schools
Name:
Thomas Jefferson Classical Academy
Street:
2527 US 221A Hwy
Phone:
828-657-9998
Students:
1,350
Colleges
Name:
Isothermal Community College
City:
Spindale
State:
NC
Distance:
7 miles
Students:
2,300
Healthcare
Rutherfordton provides convenient healthcare access through the Rutherford Regional Health System, complemented by a high rate of health insurance coverage at 89.2%. The town maintains a solid healthcare infrastructure with 1.5 physicians per 1,000 residents.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Rutherford Regional Health System
Address:
288 S Ridgecrest Ave, Rutherfordton, NC 28139
Phone:
(828) 286-5000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.5
Health Insurance Coverage:
89.2%
Health Care Index:
76.1
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Rutherfordton, NC?
The housing market in Rutherfordton is accessible, with median home prices at $157,000 and an owner-occupied rate of 64.5%. Homes have experienced modest annual appreciation, and a healthy rental market offers affordable options for newcomers.
Median Home Price:
$157,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$810
Owner Occupied Rate:
64.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.6%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.2%
New Construction Rate:
0.8%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Local DMV services are managed by the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles, with the nearest office located in Morganton. Residents can easily handle licensing and registration needs both in person and online.
State:
North Carolina
Department:
North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles
Address:
1620 S. Sterling St., Morganton, NC 28655
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.