Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Willow Ridge, NC
Thinking about relocating to Willow Ridge, NC? With a welcoming population of 6,800 and a median home price of $238,000, this small city offers affordable living, moderate rents, and a mild, sunny climate. Crime rates are lower than many urban areas, and most residents enjoy a manageable 27-minute commute. Willow Ridge is known for its close-knit community, convenient healthcare, and solid educational options—making it a great choice for families or anyone seeking a relaxed North Carolina lifestyle.
Demographics - Willow Ridge, NC
Demographics - Willow Ridge, NC
Willow Ridge is home to 6,800 residents, with a median age of 41.2, and a diverse makeup that is predominantly White (68%) and Black (22.5%). The city maintains a balanced gender ratio and a welcoming atmosphere for non-English speakers, who make up just over 7% of the population. Its moderate population density provides a comfortable, small-town feel while supporting a vibrant community.
Population:
6,800
Density:
1,150 per sq mi
Median Age:
41.2
Gender Ratio:
95 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
7.2%

Ethnic Composition
White:
68.0%
Black:
22.5%
Asian:
2.5%
Others:
7.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Willow Ridge, NC?
Willow Ridge features a cost of living index of 91.5, making it more affordable than the national average. Median home values are around $238,000, with typical rents for a two-bedroom apartment at $1,080 per month. Residents also benefit from reasonable utility costs and moderate state income taxes, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious families and individuals.
Median House Value:
$238,000
Gross Rent:
$1,080
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,110
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,270
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$445
State Taxes:
Low:
5.25%
|
High:
5.25%
Cost Of Living Index:
91.5
Grocery:
93.0
Housing:
81.2
Utilities:
97.0
Transportation:
89.6
Health Care:
95.8
Miscellaneous:
94.1
Crime
Is Willow Ridge, NC a safe place to live?
The city maintains relatively low crime rates, with 254 violent crimes and 1,720 property crimes per 100,000 residents. This equates to a 1 in 394 chance of experiencing a violent crime, which is lower than many larger cities. Willow Ridge offers a reassuring level of safety for families and newcomers alike.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
254
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,720
Crime Index:
1,974
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 394
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 58
Weather
What is the weather like in Willow Ridge, NC year-round?
Willow Ridge enjoys a mild, four-season climate with warm summers reaching highs around 89°F and winters that rarely dip below freezing. The area receives about 45.7 inches of rainfall annually and boasts 63% sunny days, creating an inviting environment for outdoor activities year-round. Residents benefit from pleasant springs and falls, making the climate a key appeal.

Winter
Min:
30°F
Max:
51°F

Spring
Min:
50°F
Max:
74°F

Summer
Min:
67°F
Max:
89°F

Fall
Min:
49°F
Max:
73°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
45.7 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
63%
Neighbors
Neighborhoods in Willow Ridge offer a typical household income of $59,600 and a family income of $66,800, with a poverty rate of just over 10%. Most adults have at least a high school diploma, and the area’s average commute time is a manageable 27 minutes. The community is friendly and diverse, reflecting a strong sense of local pride and involvement.
Median Income:
$33,250
Household Income:
$59,600
Family Income:
$66,800
Per Capita Income:
$28,700
Income Male:
$39,200
Income Female:
$31,700
Poverty Rate:
10.4%
Non English Speakers:
7.2%
Rent:
$1,080
Unemployment Rate:
4.2%
Public Transport Usage:
0.8%
Commute Time:
27.1 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
89.3%
Bachelors or More:
23.7%
Education
How are the schools in Willow Ridge, NC?
Willow Ridge offers quality educational opportunities, with public schools like Willow Ridge Elementary and High School providing favorable student-teacher ratios. Private education is also available, and higher learning is easily accessible at Cape Fear Community College, located just 18 miles away. The city’s educational environment supports families and lifelong learners alike.

Public Schools
Name:
Willow Ridge Elementary School
Street:
102 Oak St
Phone:
910-555-0210
Students:
410
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.5
Name:
Willow Ridge High School
Street:
400 Pine St
Phone:
910-555-0230
Students:
710
Student Teacher Ratio:
16.2

Private Schools
Name:
St. Matthew Academy
Street:
215 Maple Ave
Phone:
910-555-0200
Students:
180

Colleges
Name:
Cape Fear Community College - North Campus
City:
Wilmington
State:
NC
Distance:
18 miles
Students:
7,800
Healthcare
Willow Ridge provides convenient access to quality healthcare, with major hospitals like Willow Ridge Community Hospital and Pine Valley Medical Center offering emergency services. The city has 2.3 physicians per 1,000 residents and nearly 88% of people are covered by health insurance. Residents benefit from well-rated healthcare facilities and a responsive medical community.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Willow Ridge Community Hospital
Address:
201 Main St, Willow Ridge, NC 28301
Phone:
(910) 555-0100
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Pine Valley Medical Center
Address:
3800 Pine Valley Rd, Willow Ridge, NC 28301
Phone:
(910) 555-0123
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.3
Health Insurance Coverage:
88.4%
Health Care Index:
72.3
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Willow Ridge, NC?
The housing market in Willow Ridge is affordable and stable, with a median home price of $238,000 and a high owner-occupancy rate of 68.5%. Rental options are available, and the average rent for a two-bedroom home is $1,080. The city has seen moderate home appreciation and low foreclosure rates, making it appealing for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$238,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,080
Owner Occupied Rate:
68.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.1%
New Construction Rate:
1.1%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Willow Ridge residents are served by the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles, located in nearby Raleigh. The DMV offers a full range of licensing and vehicle registration services, with information and online resources available through the state's official website. Access to DMV services is convenient for both new and long-term residents.
State:
North Carolina
Department:
North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles
Address:
1100 New Bern Ave, Raleigh, NC 27697
Phone:
1-919-715-7000
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.