Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Vale, NC
Considering a move to Vale, NC? This quiet rural community of about 860 offers affordable living, with median home prices around $176,000 and rents near $860. Crime rates are low, commutes average 30 minutes, and residents enjoy 62% sunny days each year. Vale features solid local schools, a strong sense of community, and easy access to nearby healthcare and colleges—making it a great choice for those seeking small-town charm with practical amenities.
Demographics - Vale, NC
Vale, NC is a small rural community with a population of around 860, a median age of 43, and a predominantly White demographic. The area has a balanced gender ratio and a low percentage of non-English speakers, offering a close-knit and homogenous environment. Its low population density provides a quiet, spacious setting ideal for those seeking tranquility.
Population:
860
Density:
70 per sq mi
Median Age:
43.0
Gender Ratio:
97 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
4.2%
Ethnic Composition
White:
90.3%
Black:
3.8%
Asian:
0.5%
Others:
5.4%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Vale, NC?
Living in Vale is highly affordable, with a median home value of $176,000 and average rent of $860 per month. The cost of living index is 83, well below the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals or families. Everyday expenses like groceries and utilities remain reasonable, allowing residents to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without high costs.
Median House Value:
$176,000
Gross Rent:
$860
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,040
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,100
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$370
State Taxes:
Low:
5.25%
|
High:
5.25%
Cost Of Living Index:
83.0
Grocery:
94.2
Housing:
64.7
Utilities:
97.0
Transportation:
81.1
Health Care:
99.0
Miscellaneous:
96.0
Crime
Is Vale, NC a safe place to live?
Vale experiences relatively low crime, with violent crimes at 182 per 100,000 residents and property crimes at 1,760 per 100,000 residents. Residents have a 1 in 549 chance of encountering violent crime, contributing to a sense of safety in the community. This peaceful atmosphere is a key draw for families and retirees.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
182
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,760
Crime Index:
1,942
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 549
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 57
Weather
What is the weather like in Vale, NC year-round?
The climate in Vale features mild winters with lows around 29°F, warm summers reaching up to 89°F, and about 62% of days are sunny. Annual rainfall is moderate at nearly 46 inches, supporting lush surroundings. The comfortable seasonal changes make outdoor activities enjoyable year-round.
Winter
Min:
29°F
Max:
49°F
Spring
Min:
46°F
Max:
72°F
Summer
Min:
65°F
Max:
89°F
Fall
Min:
48°F
Max:
74°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
45.8 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
62%
Neighbors
Vale's households typically earn around $52,300, with a median income of $38,900 and a poverty rate of 13.4%. Most residents have a high school diploma, and the average commute is just under 30 minutes, reflecting a rural yet connected lifestyle. The area is characterized by a strong sense of community and low unemployment.
Median Income:
$38,900
Household Income:
$52,300
Family Income:
$65,400
Per Capita Income:
$25,200
Income Male:
$39,500
Income Female:
$30,800
Poverty Rate:
13.4%
Non English Speakers:
4.2%
Rent:
$860
Unemployment Rate:
4.1%
Public Transport Usage:
0.3%
Commute Time:
29.7 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
83.6%
Bachelors or More:
13.4%
Education
How are the schools in Vale, NC?
Vale offers strong educational options, with local public schools like Union Elementary and West Lincoln Middle maintaining reasonable student-teacher ratios. Private schooling and nearby colleges, such as Catawba Valley Community College and Lenoir-Rhyne University within a 20-mile radius, provide further learning opportunities. Families benefit from a supportive academic environment and access to higher education.
Public Schools
Name:
Union Elementary School
Street:
4875 Reepsville Rd
Phone:
704-276-1493
Students:
480
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.5
Name:
West Lincoln Middle School
Street:
260 Shoal Rd
Phone:
704-276-1760
Students:
520
Student Teacher Ratio:
16.0
Private Schools
Name:
Long Shoals Wesleyan Academy
Street:
3032 Wesleyan Church Rd
Phone:
704-732-0761
Students:
110
Colleges
Name:
Catawba Valley Community College
City:
Hickory
State:
NC
Distance:
19 miles
Students:
4,800
Name:
Lenoir-Rhyne University
City:
Hickory
State:
NC
Distance:
20 miles
Students:
2,700
Healthcare
Vale is served by major hospitals like Atrium Health Lincoln and Catawba Valley Medical Center, both offering comprehensive emergency and surgical services nearby. The community enjoys good health coverage, with 87.3% insured and access to 2.2 physicians per 1,000 people. Healthcare in Vale is reliable, with facilities easily accessible for residents.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Atrium Health Lincoln
Address:
433 McAlister Rd, Lincolnton, NC 28092
Phone:
(980) 212-2000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Catawba Valley Medical Center
Address:
810 Fairgrove Church Rd SE, Hickory, NC 28602
Phone:
(828) 326-3000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.2
Health Insurance Coverage:
87.3%
Health Care Index:
72.4
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Vale, NC?
The housing market in Vale is stable and affordable, with a median home price of $176,000 and an owner-occupied rate above 80%. Rental options are available at an average of $860 for a two-bedroom, and the low foreclosure rate suggests a healthy local market. Modest home appreciation and low vacancy rates make it appealing for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$176,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$860
Owner Occupied Rate:
80.6%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.4%
New Construction Rate:
1.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Residents of Vale are served by the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles, with services accessible online or at the Raleigh office. The DMV provides convenient access to vehicle registration, licensing, and other transportation needs. For more information, residents can visit the official state DMV website or call the Raleigh office.
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.