Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Salisbury, NC
Considering Salisbury, NC for your next move? This welcoming city of 35,760 offers affordable living, with median home prices around $192,000 and average rents under $1,000. Residents enjoy a mild climate with 62% sunny days, short 21-minute commutes, and access to local colleges. While property crime rates are higher than average, the city features a vibrant community, convenient healthcare, and solid educational options. Salisbury is a great value for those seeking small-city charm and a lower cost of living.
Demographics - Salisbury, NC
Demographics - Salisbury, NC
Salisbury, NC is home to about 35,760 residents with a population density of 1,520 per square mile and a median age of 37.6. The city is diverse, with nearly half the population identifying as White and over a third as Black, and about 10% are non-English speakers. This mix provides a welcoming environment for individuals and families from various backgrounds.
Population:
35,760
Density:
1,520 per sq mi
Median Age:
37.6
Gender Ratio:
91 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
10.2%

Ethnic Composition
White:
49.3%
Black:
34.2%
Asian:
2.0%
Others:
14.5%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Salisbury, NC?
Salisbury offers an affordable cost of living, with a median home value of $192,000 and average rent around $965. The overall cost of living index is notably lower than the national average, making everyday expenses like utilities and groceries more manageable for residents. State taxes remain consistent at 5.25%, contributing to the city’s budget-friendly appeal.
Median House Value:
$192,000
Gross Rent:
$965
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,060
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,220
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$410
State Taxes:
Low:
5.25%
|
High:
5.25%
Cost Of Living Index:
81.6
Grocery:
94.2
Housing:
58.4
Utilities:
97.6
Transportation:
80.3
Health Care:
97.1
Miscellaneous:
93.4
Crime
Is Salisbury, NC a safe place to live?
While Salisbury provides a lively community, it experiences higher property crime rates, with a chance of 1 in 31, and a violent crime chance of about 1 in 180. Residents should be mindful of safety precautions, though many neighborhoods remain friendly and active. Staying informed and engaged with local resources can help foster a safer living environment.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
557
Property Crimes Per 100k:
3,210
Crime Index:
3,767
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 180
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 31
Weather
What is the weather like in Salisbury, NC year-round?
Salisbury features a mild climate, with winter lows around 30°F and summer highs nearing 89°F. Residents enjoy about 62% sunny days each year, alongside a moderate annual rainfall of 45 inches. The pleasant weather supports an active outdoor lifestyle for much of the year.

Winter
Min:
30°F
Max:
50°F

Spring
Min:
49°F
Max:
73°F

Summer
Min:
68°F
Max:
89°F

Fall
Min:
51°F
Max:
74°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
45.1 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
62%
Neighbors
Local households in Salisbury typically earn a median income of $45,600, though the poverty rate is higher than average at 23.7%. The area boasts strong community ties, with most residents commuting just over 21 minutes and a majority having at least a high school diploma. The neighborhood atmosphere is friendly, although economic diversity is noticeable.
Median Income:
$24,600
Household Income:
$45,600
Family Income:
$56,300
Per Capita Income:
$24,600
Income Male:
$32,800
Income Female:
$26,200
Poverty Rate:
23.7%
Non English Speakers:
10.2%
Rent:
$965
Unemployment Rate:
5.6%
Public Transport Usage:
0.7%
Commute Time:
21.2 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
84.7%
Bachelors or More:
22.3%
Education
How are the schools in Salisbury, NC?
Salisbury supports a range of educational options, including reputable public schools, private institutions, and two local colleges—Catawba College and Livingstone College—located within the city. Public schools offer manageable class sizes and diverse programs, while higher education is readily accessible for students of all ages. The community values educational attainment, fostering lifelong learning.

Public Schools
Name:
Salisbury High School
Street:
500 Lincolnton Rd
Phone:
704-636-1221
Students:
800
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.2
Name:
Knox Middle School
Street:
1625 W Park Rd
Phone:
704-633-2922
Students:
650
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.7

Private Schools
Name:
North Hills Christian School
Street:
2970 W Innes St
Phone:
704-636-3005
Students:
400

Colleges
Name:
Catawba College
City:
Salisbury
State:
NC
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
1,200
Name:
Livingstone College
City:
Salisbury
State:
NC
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
900
Healthcare
Salisbury is served by Novant Health Rowan Medical Center, offering comprehensive emergency and general care to residents. There are 2.1 physicians per 1,000 people, and nearly 87% of locals have some form of health insurance. Healthcare access is reliable, contributing to the city’s overall quality of life.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Novant Health Rowan Medical Center
Address:
612 Mocksville Ave, Salisbury, NC 28144
Phone:
(704) 210-5000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
86.8%
Health Care Index:
72.4
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Salisbury, NC?
The Salisbury housing market is accessible, with a median home price of $192,000 and an average two-bedroom rent of $965. About 47% of homes are owner-occupied, and the area has seen a healthy home appreciation rate of 6.4% over the past year. The market offers both buying and renting opportunities for newcomers.
Median Home Price:
$192,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$965
Owner Occupied Rate:
47.0%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
8.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
6.4%
New Construction Rate:
1.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.8%
DMV Information
Residents handle vehicle registration and licensing through the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles located at 601 W Innes St in Salisbury. The office provides standard DMV services and support, ensuring drivers can easily maintain compliance. Helpful staff and online resources make the process convenient for locals.
State:
North Carolina
Department:
North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles
Address:
601 W Innes St, Salisbury, NC 28144
Phone:
(704) 633-5873
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.