Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Unaka, NC
Considering a move to Unaka, NC? This peaceful rural community of about 350 residents offers affordable living, with median home prices around $165,000 and average rents at just $800. Residents enjoy mild mountain weather and easy access to nature, while commute times average 28 minutes. Crime rates are low, and the local elementary school serves as a community hub. Though amenities are basic, Unaka’s scenic beauty and small-town feel make it ideal for those seeking a quiet lifestyle in western North Carolina.
Demographics - Unaka, NC
Unaka, NC is a small rural community with a population of about 350, predominantly White, and a median age of 47.2, reflecting a mature and close-knit atmosphere. The area features a balanced gender ratio and a low percentage of non-English speakers, making it a welcoming place for new residents.
Population:
350
Density:
25 per sq mi
Median Age:
47.2
Gender Ratio:
99 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
3.2%
Ethnic Composition
White:
92.0%
Black:
3.5%
Asian:
0.5%
Others:
4.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Unaka, NC?
Living in Unaka is affordable, with the cost of living index at 84.0 and median home values at $165,000. Residents benefit from low housing and utility costs, making it an attractive option for those seeking value in a scenic mountain setting.
Median House Value:
$165,000
Gross Rent:
$800
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,010
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,100
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$395
State Taxes:
Low:
5.25%
|
High:
5.25%
Cost Of Living Index:
84.0
Grocery:
91.2
Housing:
72.0
Utilities:
98.8
Transportation:
84.5
Health Care:
92.0
Miscellaneous:
88.0
Crime
Is Unaka, NC a safe place to live?
Unaka boasts low crime rates, with just 210 violent crimes and 1,310 property crimes per 100,000 residents, translating to a 1 in 475 chance of experiencing violent crime. This helps create a safe and peaceful environment for families and retirees.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
210
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,310
Crime Index:
1,520
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 475
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 76
Weather
What is the weather like in Unaka, NC year-round?
The climate in Unaka features mild winters with lows around 28°F and warm summers reaching 84°F, along with generous rainfall of 54 inches annually. With 56% sunny days, residents enjoy a pleasant mix of seasons ideal for outdoor activities.
Winter
Min:
28°F
Max:
46°F
Spring
Min:
45°F
Max:
70°F
Summer
Min:
62°F
Max:
84°F
Fall
Min:
44°F
Max:
72°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
54 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
56%
Neighbors
Unaka's neighbors experience modest incomes, with a median household income of $44,200 and a poverty rate of 17.5%. Most adults have at least a high school diploma, and the average commute is about 28 minutes, reflecting the rural nature and laid-back pace of the community.
Median Income:
$28,500
Household Income:
$44,200
Family Income:
$52,600
Per Capita Income:
$21,800
Income Male:
$30,200
Income Female:
$25,500
Poverty Rate:
17.5%
Non English Speakers:
3.2%
Rent:
$800
Unemployment Rate:
4.8%
Public Transport Usage:
0.3%
Commute Time:
28.0 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
85.0%
Bachelors or More:
11.5%
Education
How are the schools in Unaka, NC?
Unaka Elementary School serves as the cornerstone of local education, offering small class sizes and a community-focused environment. Higher education is accessible via Tri-County Community College, located just 22 miles away in Murphy.
Public Schools
Name:
Unaka Elementary School
Street:
568 Unaka School Rd
Phone:
828-321-4415
Students:
140
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.5
Colleges
Name:
Tri-County Community College
City:
Murphy
State:
NC
Distance:
22 miles
Students:
2,300
Healthcare
Residents have access to quality healthcare, with two nearby hospitals offering emergency services and a physician rate of 1.6 per 1,000 people. Health insurance coverage stands at 86%, ensuring most locals have access to essential medical care.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Cherokee Indian Hospital
Address:
1 Hospital Rd, Cherokee, NC 28719
Phone:
(828) 497-9163
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Angel Medical Center
Address:
120 Riverview St, Franklin, NC 28734
Phone:
(828) 524-8411
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.6
Health Insurance Coverage:
86.0%
Health Care Index:
64.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Unaka, NC?
Unaka’s housing market is stable, with a median home price of $165,000 and a high owner-occupancy rate of 78.5%. Modest rent prices and a low foreclosure rate make the area accessible for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$165,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$800
Owner Occupied Rate:
78.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.5%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.0%
New Construction Rate:
0.8%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Unaka residents are served by the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles, which offers convenient online and in-person services from its Raleigh headquarters. The DMV provides comprehensive vehicle registration and licensing resources for state residents.
State:
North Carolina
Department:
North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles
Address:
3101 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, NC 27699
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.