Ruth, NC
Population 526 · North Carolina
About Ruth, NC
Ruth is a small community located in North Carolina with a population of 526 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $48,125 per year, which is 36% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 41.6 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Ruth features a median home value of $122,000, which is 50% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Ruth one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $707, 39% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 243 total housing units, 76% are owner-occupied (162 units) and 24% are renter-occupied (51 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Ruth shows an unemployment rate of 3.9%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 29.4%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Ruth have an average one-way commute time of 22.7 minutes.
Education & Demographics
13.6% of Ruth 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 9.7% White, 1.7% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 1.0% Asian residents, with 4.9% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Ruth, NC
Compared to national averages, Ruth has a median household income of $48,125 (36% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $122,000, which is 50% below the national median. Monthly rent at $707 is 39% below the US average of $1,163. Within North Carolina, Ruth's income is 25% below the state average of $64,468, and home values are 47% below the state median of $228,922.
Why Live in Ruth, NC?
Ruth offers affordable housing with a median home value of $122,000, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $707/month, and short commute times averaging just 22.7 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($48,125) that falls below the national average. However, Ruth’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Ruth has a population of 526 with a median age of 41.6 years. Compare Ruth with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in North Carolina.
Similar Cities Near Ruth
Cities in North Carolina with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Teachey | 528 | $49,828 | $182,500 | Compare |
| Minnesott Beach | 529 | $72,344 | $266,200 | Compare |
| Staley | 532 | $61,875 | $133,800 | Compare |
| Carolina Meadows | 536 | $133,090 | $514,900 | Compare |
| Parkton | 515 | $55,000 | $150,400 | Compare |
| Gloucester | 514 | $78,125 | $277,000 | Compare |
| Fair Bluff | 513 | $29,063 | $48,900 | Compare |
| Riegelwood | 539 | $0 | $181,800 | 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 Ruth With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Ruth
What is the population of Ruth, NC?
The population of Ruth, NC is 526 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small community in North Carolina.
What is the median household income in Ruth?
The median household income in Ruth, NC is $48,125 per year, which is 36% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Ruth?
The median home value in Ruth, NC is $122,000, which is 50% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Ruth?
The median monthly rent in Ruth, NC is $707, which is 39% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Ruth?
The unemployment rate in Ruth, 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 Ruth, NC a good place to live?
Ruth offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 526 and a median age of 41.6, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Ruth, NC?
13.6% of residents in Ruth 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 Ruth?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Ruth, NC: median home value is $122,000 (50% below national), median rent is $707/month, and median household income is $48,125. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.5x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Ruth?
The poverty rate in Ruth, NC is 29.4%, 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 Ruth, NC?
Ruth's population is 9.7% White, 1.7% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 1.0% Asian, and 1.0% two or more races. 4.9% of residents are foreign-born.