Holly Ridge, NC
Population 4,532 · North Carolina
About Holly Ridge, NC
Holly Ridge is a small town located in North Carolina with a population of 4,532 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $106,230 per year, which is 41% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 35.8 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 Holly Ridge features a median home value of $291,100, which is 19% above the national median of $244,900. This positions Holly Ridge in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,491, 28% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 2,375 total housing units, 86% are owner-occupied (1,520 units) and 14% are renter-occupied (251 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Holly Ridge shows an unemployment rate of 2.0%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 0.8%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Holly Ridge have an average one-way commute time of 31.4 minutes.
Education & Demographics
49.4% of Holly Ridge residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This significantly higher educational attainment rate often correlates with access to knowledge-economy jobs and higher household incomes. The community's demographic composition includes 4.7% White, 4.4% Hispanic or Latino, 0.4% Black or African American, and 1.2% Asian residents, with 2.7% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Holly Ridge, NC
Compared to national averages, Holly Ridge has a median household income of $106,230 (41% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $291,100, which is 19% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,491 is 28% above the US average of $1,163. Within North Carolina, Holly Ridge's income is 65% above the state average of $64,468, and home values are 27% above the state median of $228,922.
Why Live in Holly Ridge, NC?
Holly Ridge offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $106,230, well above the national average, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 2.0%, and a well-educated community where 49.4% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Additionally, the city features a low poverty rate of 0.8%, better than the national average.
Holly Ridge has a population of 4,532 with a median age of 35.8 years. Compare Holly Ridge with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in North Carolina.
Similar Cities Near Holly Ridge
Cities in North Carolina with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Royal Pines | 4,528 | $105,956 | $369,500 | Compare |
| Raeford | 4,545 | $43,311 | $177,900 | Compare |
| Ranlo | 4,556 | $75,843 | $184,500 | Compare |
| Farmville | 4,493 | $50,870 | $184,900 | Compare |
| China Grove | 4,487 | $53,717 | $207,500 | Compare |
| Edenton | 4,480 | $42,721 | $226,800 | Compare |
| Shallotte | 4,465 | $75,642 | $301,300 | Compare |
| Randleman | 4,611 | $51,852 | $164,100 | 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 Holly Ridge With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Holly Ridge
What is the population of Holly Ridge, NC?
The population of Holly Ridge, NC is 4,532 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 Holly Ridge?
The median household income in Holly Ridge, NC is $106,230 per year, which is 41% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Holly Ridge?
The median home value in Holly Ridge, NC is $291,100, which is 19% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Holly Ridge?
The median monthly rent in Holly Ridge, NC is $1,491, which is 28% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Holly Ridge?
The unemployment rate in Holly Ridge, NC is 2.0%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Holly Ridge, NC a good place to live?
Holly Ridge offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and a strong job market. With a population of 4,532 and a median age of 35.8, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Holly Ridge, NC?
49.4% of residents in Holly Ridge aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This above-average educational attainment often reflects a knowledge-based local economy.
What is the cost of living in Holly Ridge?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Holly Ridge, NC: median home value is $291,100 (19% above national), median rent is $1,491/month, and median household income is $106,230. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.7x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Holly Ridge?
The poverty rate in Holly Ridge, NC is 0.8%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Holly Ridge, NC?
Holly Ridge's population is 4.7% White, 4.4% Hispanic or Latino, 0.4% Black or African American, 1.2% Asian, and 4.4% two or more races. 2.7% of residents are foreign-born.