Lucama, NC
Population 1,108 · North Carolina
About Lucama, NC
Lucama is a small town located in North Carolina with a population of 1,108 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $34,583 per year, which is 54% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 29.7 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 Lucama features a median home value of $98,200, which is 60% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Lucama one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $1,009, 13% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 407 total housing units, 39% are owner-occupied (148 units) and 61% are renter-occupied (228 units). The higher proportion of renters may reflect a transient population, younger demographics, or high housing costs relative to income.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Lucama shows an unemployment rate of 12.5%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 26.4%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Lucama have an average one-way commute time of 20.6 minutes.
Education & Demographics
13.9% of Lucama 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 23.6% White, 0.4% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 1.0% Asian residents, with 13.3% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Lucama, NC
Compared to national averages, Lucama has a median household income of $34,583 (54% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $98,200, which is 60% below the national median. Monthly rent at $1,009 is 13% below the US average of $1,163. Within North Carolina, Lucama's income is 46% below the state average of $64,468, and home values are 57% below the state median of $228,922.
Why Live in Lucama, NC?
Lucama offers affordable housing with a median home value of $98,200, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $1,009/month, and short commute times averaging just 20.6 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($34,583) that falls below the national average. However, Lucama’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Lucama has a population of 1,108 with a median age of 29.7 years. Compare Lucama with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in North Carolina.
Similar Cities Near Lucama
Cities in North Carolina with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Magnolia | 1,109 | $40,156 | $76,900 | Compare |
| Hayesville | 1,110 | $52,875 | $217,400 | Compare |
| Five Points | 1,096 | $0 | $284,700 | Compare |
| Springdale | 1,120 | $61,250 | $179,600 | Compare |
| Vass | 1,092 | $56,042 | $221,700 | Compare |
| Chocowinity | 1,090 | $34,141 | $116,500 | Compare |
| Faith | 1,090 | $128,274 | $249,800 | Compare |
| Franklinville | 1,129 | $53,942 | $122,400 | 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 Lucama With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Lucama
What is the population of Lucama, NC?
The population of Lucama, NC is 1,108 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 Lucama?
The median household income in Lucama, NC is $34,583 per year, which is 54% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Lucama?
The median home value in Lucama, NC is $98,200, which is 60% below the national median of $244,900. A significant portion of residents rent their homes.
What is the average rent in Lucama?
The median monthly rent in Lucama, NC is $1,009, which is 13% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Lucama?
The unemployment rate in Lucama, NC is 12.5%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Lucama, NC a good place to live?
Lucama offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 1,108 and a median age of 29.7, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Lucama, NC?
13.9% of residents in Lucama 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 Lucama?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Lucama, NC: median home value is $98,200 (60% below national), median rent is $1,009/month, and median household income is $34,583. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.8x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Lucama?
The poverty rate in Lucama, NC is 26.4%, 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 Lucama, NC?
Lucama's population is 23.6% White, 0.4% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 1.0% Asian, and 42.5% two or more races. 13.3% of residents are foreign-born.