Catawba, NC
Population 632 · North Carolina
About Catawba, NC
Catawba is a small community located in North Carolina with a population of 632 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $44,659 per year, which is 41% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 38.3 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Catawba features a median home value of $138,100, which is 44% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Catawba one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $1,098, 6% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 388 total housing units, 73% are owner-occupied (250 units) and 27% are renter-occupied (93 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Catawba shows an unemployment rate of 8.3%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 20.3%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Catawba have an average one-way commute time of 29.8 minutes.
Education & Demographics
7.4% of Catawba residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The lower educational attainment rate may reflect the area's industry mix, with more employment in trades, manufacturing, or agricultural sectors. The community's demographic composition includes 3.8% White, 1.4% Hispanic or Latino, 1.4% Black or African American, and 2.1% Asian residents, with 2.5% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Catawba, NC
Compared to national averages, Catawba has a median household income of $44,659 (41% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $138,100, which is 44% below the national median. Monthly rent at $1,098 is 6% below the US average of $1,163. Within North Carolina, Catawba's income is 31% below the state average of $64,468, and home values are 40% below the state median of $228,922.
Why Live in Catawba, NC?
Catawba offers affordable housing with a median home value of $138,100, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $1,098/month.
Potential considerations include median household income ($44,659) that falls below the national average. However, Catawba’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Catawba has a population of 632 with a median age of 38.3 years. Compare Catawba with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in North Carolina.
Similar Cities Near Catawba
Cities in North Carolina with a similar population size.
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in North Carolina
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare Catawba With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Catawba
What is the population of Catawba, NC?
The population of Catawba, NC is 632 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small community in North Carolina.
What is the median household income in Catawba?
The median household income in Catawba, NC is $44,659 per year, which is 41% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Catawba?
The median home value in Catawba, NC is $138,100, which is 44% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Catawba?
The median monthly rent in Catawba, NC is $1,098, which is 6% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Catawba?
The unemployment rate in Catawba, NC is 8.3%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Catawba, NC a good place to live?
Catawba offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 632 and a median age of 38.3, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Catawba, NC?
7.4% of residents in Catawba aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The educational profile reflects the area's industry mix and employment landscape.
What is the cost of living in Catawba?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Catawba, NC: median home value is $138,100 (44% below national), median rent is $1,098/month, and median household income is $44,659. The home-value-to-income ratio is 3.1x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Catawba?
The poverty rate in Catawba, NC is 20.3%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. Residents and prospective movers should be aware of the economic challenges facing parts of this community.
How diverse is Catawba, NC?
Catawba's population is 3.8% White, 1.4% Hispanic or Latino, 1.4% Black or African American, 2.1% Asian, and 19.0% two or more races. 2.5% of residents are foreign-born.