Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Watha, NC
Considering a move to Watha, NC? This small, welcoming town has a population of around 190 and offers affordable living, with median home prices at $172,000 and average rents near $820. Residents enjoy a mild climate, low density, and quick commutes averaging 27 minutes. Violent crime rates are lower than many cities, and while educational attainment is modest, local schools and healthcare options serve the community well. Watha’s friendly atmosphere and budget-friendly lifestyle are perfect for those seeking a quiet, rural setting in North Carolina.
Demographics - Watha, NC
Watha is a small, close-knit community of about 190 residents, with a median age of 45.1, reflecting a mature population. The town is predominantly White (65%) and Black (28%), with a nearly even gender balance and a modest proportion of non-English speakers, contributing to a diverse yet neighborly atmosphere.
Population:
190
Density:
115 per sq mi
Median Age:
45.1
Gender Ratio:
98 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
5.2%
Ethnic Composition
White:
65.0%
Black:
28.0%
Asian:
0.5%
Others:
6.5%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Watha, NC?
The cost of living in Watha is notably affordable, with a median home value of $172,000 and average rents around $820. Utilities and transportation costs are also below the national average, making this town an attractive option for budget-conscious families and retirees.
Median House Value:
$172,000
Gross Rent:
$820
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,020
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,060
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$410
State Taxes:
Low:
5.25%
|
High:
5.25%
Cost Of Living Index:
83.7
Grocery:
96.4
Housing:
73.2
Utilities:
98.5
Transportation:
87.3
Health Care:
101.9
Miscellaneous:
90.4
Crime
Is Watha, NC a safe place to live?
Watha experiences relatively low crime rates, with a 1 in 435 chance of violent crime and a 1 in 81 chance of property crime annually. This offers residents a reassuring sense of safety compared to many larger cities.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
230
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,240
Crime Index:
1,470
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 435
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 81
Weather
What is the weather like in Watha, NC year-round?
Residents enjoy a mild climate, with winter lows around 35°F and summer highs reaching 91°F, complemented by about 63% sunny days each year. The area receives ample rainfall, averaging 54.5 inches annually, supporting lush local landscapes.
Winter
Min:
35°F
Max:
57°F
Spring
Min:
51°F
Max:
76°F
Summer
Min:
70°F
Max:
91°F
Fall
Min:
54°F
Max:
77°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
54.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
63%
Neighbors
Watha's households have a median income of $49,000 and a poverty rate of 15.8%, with most adults having at least a high school diploma. Commutes average 27 minutes, and public transportation is rarely used, reflecting the town's rural character and reliance on personal vehicles.
Median Income:
$30,500
Household Income:
$49,000
Family Income:
$57,000
Per Capita Income:
$26,100
Income Male:
$33,700
Income Female:
$27,800
Poverty Rate:
15.8%
Non English Speakers:
5.2%
Rent:
$820
Unemployment Rate:
4.7%
Public Transport Usage:
0.5%
Commute Time:
27.2 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
84.7%
Bachelors or More:
14.5%
Education
How are the schools in Watha, NC?
Families in Watha benefit from supportive public and private school options, with student-teacher ratios fostering personalized attention. For higher education, reputable institutions such as Cape Fear Community College and UNC Wilmington are within a 30-mile drive, offering a range of academic opportunities.
Public Schools
Name:
Malpass Corner Elementary School
Street:
4992 Malpass Corner Rd
Phone:
910-285-3476
Students:
330
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.5
Name:
Pender High School
Street:
5380 NC Hwy 53 W
Phone:
910-259-0162
Students:
780
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.0
Private Schools
Name:
Cape Fear Christian Academy
Street:
1247 Penderlea Hwy
Phone:
910-259-7313
Students:
120
Colleges
Name:
Cape Fear Community College
City:
Wilmington
State:
NC
Distance:
27 miles
Students:
22,000
Name:
University of North Carolina Wilmington
City:
Wilmington
State:
NC
Distance:
30 miles
Students:
18,000
Healthcare
Healthcare access in Watha is supported by nearby facilities like Pender Memorial Hospital and Novant Health New Hanover Regional Medical Center, both offering emergency services. Most residents (86.3%) have health insurance, and the area maintains a moderate healthcare index, ensuring essential medical needs are met.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Pender Memorial Hospital
Address:
507 Fremont St, Burgaw, NC 28425
Phone:
(910) 259-5451
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Novant Health New Hanover Regional Medical Center
Address:
2131 S 17th St, Wilmington, NC 28401
Phone:
(910) 667-7000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.7
Health Insurance Coverage:
86.3%
Health Care Index:
63.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Watha, NC?
The local housing market features a median home price of $172,000 and a strong owner-occupancy rate of over 70%. With steady appreciation and moderate vacancy rates, Watha offers stable and affordable housing for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$172,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$820
Owner Occupied Rate:
70.6%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.0%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.2%
New Construction Rate:
0.4%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.8%
DMV Information
Residents handle vehicle registration and licensing through the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles, conveniently accessible online or at the main office in Raleigh. The DMV provides comprehensive motor vehicle services for Watha and the surrounding region.
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.