Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Sapphire, NC
Considering a move to Sapphire, NC? With a tranquil population of around 1,060, Sapphire offers a scenic, low-density lifestyle in the mountains. The median home price is $425,000, with average rents near $1,150, and the town boasts low crime rates and short 21-minute commutes. Residents enjoy a mild climate, abundant rainfall, and easy access to quality healthcare and schools, making Sapphire a peaceful, nature-rich choice for families, retirees, and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
Demographics - Sapphire, NC
Demographics - Sapphire, NC
Sapphire, NC is a close-knit community of about 1,060 residents, with a median age of 59, reflecting its appeal to retirees and those seeking a quieter lifestyle. The area is predominantly White, with small representations from other groups, and has a nearly even gender balance. With a low population density of 75 people per square mile, Sapphire offers a relaxed, spacious environment.
Population:
1,060
Density:
75 per sq mi
Median Age:
59.0
Gender Ratio:
96 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
3.7%
Ethnic Composition
White:
90.2%
Black:
3.5%
Asian:
1.2%
Others:
5.1%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Sapphire, NC?
Living in Sapphire comes with a cost of living index slightly above the national average, driven mainly by housing, with the median home value at $425,000 and average rent around $1,150. Utility and grocery costs remain close to average, while state income taxes are a flat 5.25%. Overall, residents enjoy moderate expenses for a mountain community with scenic surroundings.
Median House Value:
$425,000
Gross Rent:
$1,150
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$130
Auto Insurance:
$980
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,625
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$495
State Taxes:
Low:
5.25%
|
High:
5.25%
Cost Of Living Index:
107.1
Grocery:
100.2
Housing:
115.5
Utilities:
98.1
Transportation:
104.7
Health Care:
98.8
Miscellaneous:
96.2
Crime
Is Sapphire, NC a safe place to live?
Sapphire experiences a notably low crime rate, with only 97 violent crimes and 1,025 property crimes per 100,000 people annually. Residents have a low 1 in 1,030 chance of being affected by violent crime, making Sapphire a safe and peaceful place to call home. The overall crime index is well below national averages, providing added peace of mind.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
97
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,025
Crime Index:
1,122
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 1,030
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 98
Weather
What is the weather like in Sapphire, NC year-round?
Sapphire enjoys a mild mountain climate, with summer highs around 80°F and winter lows dipping to 27°F. The area receives abundant rainfall—about 72 inches annually—and experiences about 50% sunny days. These weather patterns support lush landscapes, making it ideal for those who appreciate natural beauty and outdoor activities.
Winter
Min:
27°F
Max:
49°F
Spring
Min:
41°F
Max:
69°F
Summer
Min:
59°F
Max:
80°F
Fall
Min:
42°F
Max:
70°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
72 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
50%
Neighbors
Sapphire residents benefit from a median household income of $58,400 and a relatively low poverty rate of 10.2%. Educational attainment is high, with over 91% holding a high school diploma and 38% possessing a bachelor’s degree or higher. Most neighbors commute about 21 minutes, reflecting the town's laid-back, small-town character.
Median Income:
$36,950
Household Income:
$58,400
Family Income:
$74,600
Per Capita Income:
$36,200
Income Male:
$41,700
Income Female:
$30,200
Poverty Rate:
10.2%
Non English Speakers:
3.7%
Rent:
$1,150
Unemployment Rate:
4.5%
Public Transport Usage:
0.2%
Commute Time:
21.3 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
91.4%
Bachelors or More:
38.2%
Education
How are the schools in Sapphire, NC?
Families in Sapphire have access to quality education options, including Blue Ridge School—a public school with small class sizes—and Summit Charter School as a private alternative. For higher education, Southwestern Community College is located just 28 miles away. The area’s strong educational resources support both young students and adults seeking continued learning.
Public Schools
Name:
Blue Ridge School
Street:
95 Bobcat Dr
Phone:
828-743-2646
Students:
330
Student Teacher Ratio:
11.5
Private Schools
Name:
Summit Charter School
Street:
370 Mitten Ln
Phone:
828-743-5755
Students:
315
Colleges
Name:
Southwestern Community College
City:
Sylva
State:
NC
Distance:
28 miles
Students:
2,700
Healthcare
Access to healthcare in Sapphire is strong, with two major hospitals nearby providing emergency and surgical services. The community has 1.9 physicians per 1,000 residents and nearly 90% health insurance coverage. These factors contribute to reliable healthcare options for families and retirees alike.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Transylvania Regional Hospital
Address:
260 Hospital Dr, Brevard, NC 28712
Phone:
(828) 884-9111
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Highlands-Cashiers Hospital
Address:
190 Hospital Drive, Highlands, NC 28741
Phone:
(828) 526-1200
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.9
Health Insurance Coverage:
89.7%
Health Care Index:
72.3
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Sapphire, NC?
The Sapphire housing market features a median home price of $425,000 and a high owner-occupancy rate of 81.5%. Home values have appreciated by 7.2% in the past year, indicating a healthy and stable market. Rental options are available, with an average two-bedroom rent of $1,150 and a moderate vacancy rate.
Median Home Price:
$425,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,150
Owner Occupied Rate:
81.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
8.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
7.2%
New Construction Rate:
1.5%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.6%
DMV Information
Sapphire residents handle vehicle registration and licensing through the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles, with the nearest central office located in Raleigh. The DMV provides comprehensive services for drivers, vehicles, and identification needs. Information, forms, and appointments can be accessed via the official DMV website.
State:
North Carolina
Department:
North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles
Address:
1100 New Bern Ave, Raleigh, NC 27697
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.