Everything You Should Know Before Moving to West Jefferson, NC
Considering a move to West Jefferson, NC? This charming mountain town of 1,440 residents offers affordable living, with median home prices around $237,000 and average rents near $870. You'll enjoy a low crime rate (139 violent crimes per 100k) and short commutes averaging 18 minutes. The area boasts scenic beauty, a friendly community, and access to quality local schools. With mild summers, 56% sunny days, and proximity to Appalachian State University, it's a great spot for those seeking small-town comfort and Blue Ridge Mountain vibes.
Demographics - West Jefferson, NC
Demographics - West Jefferson, NC
West Jefferson is a small, close-knit community of 1,440 residents, with a median age of 46.3, and a population density of 1,050 per square mile. The town is predominantly White, with some diversity, and about 6.5% of residents speak a language other than English at home. The gender balance is fairly even, making it a welcoming environment for families and individuals alike.
Population:
1,440
Density:
1,050 per sq mi
Median Age:
46.3
Gender Ratio:
91 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
6.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
90.7%
Black:
1.3%
Asian:
0.7%
Others:
7.3%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in West Jefferson, NC?
Living in West Jefferson is quite affordable, with a cost of living index of 83.2 compared to the national average. Median home values are around $237,000 and average rents are about $870, making housing costs accessible for many. Utilities and groceries are also reasonably priced, contributing to a modest overall monthly budget.
Median House Value:
$237,000
Gross Rent:
$870
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$950
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,140
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$410
State Taxes:
Low:
5.25%
|
High:
5.25%
Cost Of Living Index:
83.2
Grocery:
95.1
Housing:
76.0
Utilities:
97.5
Transportation:
86.2
Health Care:
92.3
Miscellaneous:
90.0
Crime
Is West Jefferson, NC a safe place to live?
West Jefferson experiences low crime rates, with just 139 violent crimes per 100,000 people and a 1 in 720 chance of being a victim of a violent crime. Property crime is also below the national average, providing residents with a sense of safety and peace of mind. The town’s secure environment is ideal for families and retirees.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
139
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,220
Crime Index:
1,359
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 720
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 82
Weather
What is the weather like in West Jefferson, NC year-round?
Residents enjoy four distinct seasons, with mild summers peaking around 79°F and winters rarely dropping below 22°F. The area receives an average of 49 inches of rainfall annually and 56% of days are sunny, offering plenty of opportunities to enjoy the scenic mountain surroundings. These pleasant weather patterns make outdoor activities accessible year-round.
Winter
Min:
22°F
Max:
39°F
Spring
Min:
40°F
Max:
65°F
Summer
Min:
58°F
Max:
79°F
Fall
Min:
42°F
Max:
67°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
49.1 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
56%
Neighbors
The typical household income in West Jefferson is $41,300, with a median income of $29,000 and a poverty rate of 17.3%. Most residents commute about 18 minutes to work and public transport use is minimal, reflecting the town’s rural charm. Educational attainment is moderate, with over 84% having at least a high school diploma.
Median Income:
$29,000
Household Income:
$41,300
Family Income:
$54,800
Per Capita Income:
$22,600
Income Male:
$31,200
Income Female:
$23,900
Poverty Rate:
17.3%
Non English Speakers:
6.5%
Rent:
$870
Unemployment Rate:
4.2%
Public Transport Usage:
0.2%
Commute Time:
18.4 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
84.1%
Bachelors or More:
22.8%
Education
How are the schools in West Jefferson, NC?
Families in West Jefferson have access to quality public schools with favorable student-teacher ratios, such as Westwood Elementary and Ashe County High School. Private education options and proximity to Appalachian State University (just 26 miles away) provide additional opportunities. This makes the town appealing for students of all ages and those seeking higher education.
Public Schools
Name:
Westwood Elementary School
Street:
8998 NC Highway 163
Phone:
336-877-2921
Students:
395
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.1
Name:
Ashe County High School
Street:
184 Campus Drive
Phone:
336-846-2400
Students:
850
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.6
Private Schools
Name:
Mountain Pathways School
Street:
453 Howard Street, Boone, NC
Phone:
828-262-5787
Students:
110
Colleges
Name:
Appalachian State University
City:
Boone
State:
NC
Distance:
26 miles
Students:
20,600
Healthcare
Healthcare in West Jefferson is supported by facilities like Ashe Memorial Hospital, offering general and emergency services. The area has a physician rate of 1.7 per 1,000 residents and over 91% have health insurance coverage. Access to care is reliable, with a healthcare index of 77.4 indicating solid local services.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Ashe Memorial Hospital
Address:
200 Hospital Ave, Jefferson, NC 28640
Phone:
(336) 846-7101
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.7
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.8%
Health Care Index:
77.4
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in West Jefferson, NC?
West Jefferson’s housing market is stable and affordable, with a median home price of $237,000 and average rent for a two-bedroom at $870. About 62% of homes are owner-occupied, and the area has a low foreclosure rate of 0.7%. Home values have appreciated about 5% in the past year, reflecting steady demand.
Median Home Price:
$237,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$870
Owner Occupied Rate:
61.9%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.6%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
5.1%
New Construction Rate:
1.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
West Jefferson residents are served by the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles, conveniently located in nearby Wilkesboro. The DMV offers essential licensing and registration services both in person and online. For more information, residents can visit the state DMV website or call the main office number.
State:
North Carolina
Department:
North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles
Address:
1103 S US Highway 421, Wilkesboro, NC 28697
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.