Locust, NC
Population 5,529 · North Carolina
About Locust, NC
Locust is a small town located in North Carolina with a population of 5,529 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $78,280 per year, which is 4% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 35.4 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 Locust features a median home value of $285,800, which is 17% above the national median of $244,900. This positions Locust in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $887, 24% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 2,099 total housing units, 88% are owner-occupied (1,663 units) and 12% are renter-occupied (225 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Locust shows an unemployment rate of 3.9%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 8.2%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Locust have an average one-way commute time of 33.1 minutes.
Education & Demographics
18.9% of Locust 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, 0.5% Hispanic or Latino, 1.0% Black or African American, and 0.6% Asian residents, with 1.0% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Locust, NC
Compared to national averages, Locust has a median household income of $78,280 (4% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $285,800, which is 17% above the national median. Monthly rent at $887 is 24% below the US average of $1,163. Within North Carolina, Locust's income is 21% above the state average of $64,468, and home values are 25% above the state median of $228,922.
Why Live in Locust, NC?
Locust offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $78,280, well above the national average, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $887/month, and a low poverty rate of 8.2%, better than the national average.
Locust has a population of 5,529 with a median age of 35.4 years. Compare Locust with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in North Carolina.
Similar Cities Near Locust
Cities in North Carolina with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bessemer City | 5,508 | $48,784 | $173,000 | Compare |
| Wrightsboro | 5,434 | $72,867 | $220,700 | Compare |
| Moyock | 5,669 | $109,700 | $391,800 | Compare |
| Nashville | 5,672 | $63,553 | $191,700 | Compare |
| Cramerton | 5,376 | $94,390 | $322,900 | Compare |
| Angier | 5,746 | $51,162 | $236,100 | Compare |
| Walkertown | 5,793 | $80,761 | $230,800 | Compare |
| Northchase | 5,879 | $56,659 | $286,700 | 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 Locust With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Locust
What is the population of Locust, NC?
The population of Locust, NC is 5,529 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 Locust?
The median household income in Locust, NC is $78,280 per year, which is 4% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Locust?
The median home value in Locust, NC is $285,800, which is 17% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Locust?
The median monthly rent in Locust, NC is $887, which is 24% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Locust?
The unemployment rate in Locust, NC is 3.9%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Locust, NC a good place to live?
Locust offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 5,529 and a median age of 35.4, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Locust, NC?
18.9% of residents in Locust 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 Locust?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Locust, NC: median home value is $285,800 (17% above national), median rent is $887/month, and median household income is $78,280. The home-value-to-income ratio is 3.7x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in Locust?
The poverty rate in Locust, NC is 8.2%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Locust, NC?
Locust's population is 3.8% White, 0.5% Hispanic or Latino, 1.0% Black or African American, 0.6% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 1.0% of residents are foreign-born.