Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Wanchese, NC
Considering a move to Wanchese, NC? With a small, welcoming population of around 1,650, this coastal village offers affordable living—median home prices sit at $277,000 and average rents are $1,175. Enjoy a mild climate with 64% sunny days each year and a short average commute of just 21.5 minutes. Crime rates are relatively low and schools are well-rated, making it a peaceful spot for families or retirees. Explore the laid-back lifestyle, local schools, and community amenities as you plan your next chapter in Wanchese!
Demographics - Wanchese, NC
Demographics - Wanchese, NC
Wanchese is a tight-knit community of about 1,650 residents, with a median age of 46.2 and a balanced gender ratio. The population is predominantly White, and the area features a modest percentage of non-English speakers, contributing to a friendly small-town atmosphere.
Population:
1,650
Density:
260 per sq mi
Median Age:
46.2
Gender Ratio:
97 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
5.2%

Ethnic Composition
White:
89.1%
Black:
1.3%
Asian:
0.8%
Others:
8.8%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Wanchese, NC?
Living in Wanchese is relatively affordable, with a median home value of $277,000 and average rents around $1,175 per month. The cost of living index is just below the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious families and retirees.
Median House Value:
$277,000
Gross Rent:
$1,175
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$130
Auto Insurance:
$985
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,375
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$515
State Taxes:
Low:
4.75%
|
High:
4.75%
Cost Of Living Index:
95.6
Grocery:
98.0
Housing:
89.3
Utilities:
102.7
Transportation:
90.9
Health Care:
96.4
Miscellaneous:
94.5
Crime
Is Wanchese, NC a safe place to live?
Wanchese experiences a low violent crime rate of 198 incidents per 100,000 people and property crime remains moderate, giving residents peace of mind. The chance of encountering violent crime is about 1 in 505, supporting the village's reputation for safety.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
198
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,750
Crime Index:
1,948
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 505
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 57
Weather
What is the weather like in Wanchese, NC year-round?
Residents enjoy a mild coastal climate, with summer highs reaching 86°F and winter lows averaging 36°F. The area receives around 50.5 inches of rainfall annually and boasts sunny weather 64% of the year, perfect for outdoor activities.

Winter
Min:
36°F
Max:
53°F

Spring
Min:
52°F
Max:
71°F

Summer
Min:
70°F
Max:
86°F

Fall
Min:
56°F
Max:
74°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
50.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
64%
Neighbors
The community features a median household income of $54,700 and an unemployment rate of just 4.7%. Most residents have at least a high school education, and the average commute time is a quick 21.5 minutes, reflecting a relaxed and accessible lifestyle.
Median Income:
$37,400
Household Income:
$54,700
Family Income:
$61,300
Per Capita Income:
$28,900
Income Male:
$36,100
Income Female:
$29,200
Poverty Rate:
13.2%
Non English Speakers:
5.2%
Rent:
$1,175
Unemployment Rate:
4.7%
Public Transport Usage:
0.5%
Commute Time:
21.5 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
86.5%
Bachelors or More:
20.3%
Education
How are the schools in Wanchese, NC?
Families have access to well-rated local schools, such as Wanchese Christian Academy and Manteo Elementary, both offering favorable student-teacher ratios. Higher education needs are met by the nearby College of The Albemarle - Dare Campus, just five miles away.

Public Schools
Name:
Wanchese Christian Academy
Street:
295 Old Schoolhouse Rd
Phone:
252-473-6466
Students:
110
Student Teacher Ratio:
12.5
Name:
Manteo Elementary School
Street:
701 North Hwy 64/264, Manteo
Phone:
252-473-2742
Students:
550
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.3

Colleges
Name:
College of The Albemarle - Dare Campus
City:
Manteo
State:
NC
Distance:
5 miles
Students:
450
Healthcare
Wanchese offers access to quality healthcare, with The Outer Banks Hospital nearby and 89.5% of residents covered by health insurance. With 1.7 physicians per 1,000 people, healthcare needs are well supported for a town of its size.

Major Hospitals
Name:
The Outer Banks Hospital
Address:
4800 S Croatan Hwy, Nags Head, NC 27959
Phone:
(252) 449-4500
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.7
Health Insurance Coverage:
89.5%
Health Care Index:
72.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Wanchese, NC?
The local housing market is stable, with a median home price of $277,000 and a high owner-occupied rate of 74.6%. Home values have appreciated by 4.7% over the past year, indicating steady growth and investment potential.
Median Home Price:
$277,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,175
Owner Occupied Rate:
74.6%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.8%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.7%
New Construction Rate:
1.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Residents of Wanchese are served by the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles, offering comprehensive services both online and at statewide branches. The nearest main office is located in Raleigh and provides essential licensing and registration support.
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.