Mills River, NC
Population 7,214 · North Carolina
About Mills River, NC
Mills River is a small town located in North Carolina with a population of 7,214 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $88,359 per year, which is 18% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 46.6 years is notably older the US median age of 38.9 years, suggesting a more established community with a higher proportion of long-term residents.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Mills River features a median home value of $358,500, which is 46% above the national median of $244,900. This positions Mills River in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,611, 39% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 3,122 total housing units, 86% are owner-occupied (2,423 units) and 14% are renter-occupied (395 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Mills River shows an unemployment rate of 4.8%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 2.0%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Mills River have an average one-way commute time of 21 minutes.
Education & Demographics
41.3% of Mills River 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 2.4% White, 0.9% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 1.7% Asian residents, with 5.1% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Mills River, NC
Compared to national averages, Mills River has a median household income of $88,359 (18% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $358,500, which is 46% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,611 is 39% above the US average of $1,163. Within North Carolina, Mills River's income is 37% above the state average of $64,468, and home values are 57% above the state median of $228,922.
Why Live in Mills River, NC?
Mills River offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $88,359, well above the national average, and a well-educated community where 41.3% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, and a low poverty rate of 2.0%, better than the national average. Additionally, the city features short commute times averaging just 21 minutes.
Mills River has a population of 7,214 with a median age of 46.6 years. Compare Mills River with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in North Carolina.
Similar Cities Near Mills River
Cities in North Carolina with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cullowhee | 7,300 | $35,076 | $0 | Compare |
| Porters Neck | 7,102 | $115,417 | $525,100 | Compare |
| King | 7,345 | $60,451 | $227,500 | Compare |
| Trinity | 7,066 | $80,349 | $187,700 | Compare |
| Forest City | 7,368 | $35,897 | $142,100 | Compare |
| St. James | 6,901 | $113,670 | $599,300 | Compare |
| Marion | 7,594 | $44,472 | $131,100 | Compare |
| Unionville | 6,826 | $92,009 | $312,200 | 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 Mills River With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Mills River
What is the population of Mills River, NC?
The population of Mills River, NC is 7,214 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 Mills River?
The median household income in Mills River, NC is $88,359 per year, which is 18% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Mills River?
The median home value in Mills River, NC is $358,500, which is 46% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Mills River?
The median monthly rent in Mills River, NC is $1,611, which is 39% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Mills River?
The unemployment rate in Mills River, NC is 4.8%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Mills River, NC a good place to live?
Mills River offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 7,214 and a median age of 46.6, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Mills River, NC?
41.3% of residents in Mills River 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 Mills River?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Mills River, NC: median home value is $358,500 (46% above national), median rent is $1,611/month, and median household income is $88,359. The home-value-to-income ratio is 4.1x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in Mills River?
The poverty rate in Mills River, NC is 2.0%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Mills River, NC?
Mills River's population is 2.4% White, 0.9% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 1.7% Asian, and 3.0% two or more races. 5.1% of residents are foreign-born.