Mills River, NC
Population 7,214 · North Carolina
About Mills River, NC
Mills River is a small community in North Carolina with a population of 7,214 residents. The median household income is $88,359 per year, which is above the national average. The median age in Mills River is 46.6 years.
Housing in Mills River has a median home value of $358,500 and median monthly rent of $1,611. Of the 3,122 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 2,423 owner-occupied and 395 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Mills River is 4.8% and the poverty rate is 2.0%. 41.3% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 21 minutes.
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.
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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 Census data.
What is the median household income in Mills River?
The median household income in Mills River, NC is $88,359 per year.
What is the median home value in Mills River?
The median home value in Mills River, NC is $358,500.
What is the average rent in Mills River?
The median monthly rent in Mills River, NC is $1,611.
What is the unemployment rate in Mills River?
The unemployment rate in Mills River, NC is 4.8%.