Cleveland, NC
Population 1,053 · North Carolina
About Cleveland, NC
Cleveland is a small town located in North Carolina with a population of 1,053 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $60,063 per year, which is 20% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 33.3 years is notably younger the US median age of 38.9 years, indicating a younger, often more dynamic population base.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Cleveland features a median home value of $205,800, which is 16% below the national median of $244,900. This positions Cleveland in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $748, 36% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 512 total housing units, 73% are owner-occupied (307 units) and 27% are renter-occupied (112 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Cleveland shows an unemployment rate of 8.1%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 18.9%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Cleveland have an average one-way commute time of 31.9 minutes.
Education & Demographics
26.6% of Cleveland residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This is in line with national trends in educational attainment. The community's demographic composition includes 8.5% White, 1.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.2% Black or African American, and 0.1% Asian residents, with 3.2% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Cleveland, NC
Compared to national averages, Cleveland has a median household income of $60,063 (20% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $205,800, which is 16% below the national median. Monthly rent at $748 is 36% below the US average of $1,163. Within North Carolina, Cleveland's income is 7% below the state average of $64,468, and home values are 10% below the state median of $228,922.
Why Live in Cleveland, NC?
Cleveland offers affordable housing with a median home value of $205,800, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $748/month.
Potential considerations include median household income ($60,063) that falls below the national average. However, Cleveland’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Cleveland has a population of 1,053 with a median age of 33.3 years. Compare Cleveland with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in North Carolina.
Similar Cities Near Cleveland
Cities in North Carolina with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Norlina | 1,050 | $34,659 | $88,200 | Compare |
| Holden Beach | 1,047 | $110,000 | $562,500 | Compare |
| Rocky Point | 1,045 | $52,591 | $115,500 | Compare |
| Rhodhiss | 1,062 | $48,125 | $113,400 | Compare |
| Efland | 1,064 | $72,396 | $192,900 | Compare |
| Stem | 1,064 | $85,385 | $207,600 | Compare |
| Toast | 1,066 | $33,914 | $93,900 | Compare |
| Cypress Landing | 1,037 | $80,325 | $418,600 | Compare |
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 Cleveland With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Cleveland
What is the population of Cleveland, NC?
The population of Cleveland, NC is 1,053 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small town in North Carolina.
What is the median household income in Cleveland?
The median household income in Cleveland, NC is $60,063 per year, which is 20% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Cleveland?
The median home value in Cleveland, NC is $205,800, which is 16% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Cleveland?
The median monthly rent in Cleveland, NC is $748, which is 36% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Cleveland?
The unemployment rate in Cleveland, NC is 8.1%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Cleveland, NC a good place to live?
Cleveland offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 1,053 and a median age of 33.3, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Cleveland, NC?
26.6% of residents in Cleveland 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 Cleveland?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Cleveland, NC: median home value is $205,800 (16% below national), median rent is $748/month, and median household income is $60,063. The home-value-to-income ratio is 3.4x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Cleveland?
The poverty rate in Cleveland, NC is 18.9%, 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 Cleveland, NC?
Cleveland's population is 8.5% White, 1.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.2% Black or African American, 0.1% Asian, and 32.5% two or more races. 3.2% of residents are foreign-born.