Rutherfordton, NC
Population 3,669 · North Carolina
About Rutherfordton, NC
Rutherfordton is a small community in North Carolina with a population of 3,669 residents. The median household income is $59,750 per year, which is near the national average. The median age in Rutherfordton is 39 years.
Housing in Rutherfordton has a median home value of $226,900 and median monthly rent of $901. Of the 1,691 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 935 owner-occupied and 503 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Rutherfordton is 9.0% and the poverty rate is 19.1%. 29.5% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 21.3 minutes.
Cost of Living in Rutherfordton, NC
Compared to national averages, Rutherfordton has a median household income of $59,750 (20% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $226,900, which is 7% below the national median. Monthly rent at $901 is 23% below the US average of $1,163. Within North Carolina, Rutherfordton's income is 7% below the state average of $64,468, and home values are 1% below the state median of $228,922.
Why Live in Rutherfordton, NC?
Rutherfordton offers affordable housing with a median home value of $226,900, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $901/month, and short commute times averaging just 21.3 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($59,750) that falls below the national average. However, Rutherfordton’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Rutherfordton has a population of 3,669 with a median age of 39 years. Compare Rutherfordton with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in North Carolina.
Similar Cities Near Rutherfordton
Cities in North Carolina with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Eastover | 3,666 | $80,000 | $238,900 | Compare |
| Wilkesboro | 3,664 | $41,175 | $197,600 | Compare |
| Glen Raven | 3,684 | $64,189 | $204,000 | Compare |
| Jamestown | 3,685 | $90,542 | $266,600 | Compare |
| Welcome | 3,649 | $65,342 | $171,100 | Compare |
| Tabor City | 3,695 | $37,014 | $109,600 | Compare |
| Gamewell | 3,701 | $55,977 | $154,100 | Compare |
| Tyro | 3,635 | $57,198 | $182,000 | 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 Rutherfordton With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Rutherfordton
What is the population of Rutherfordton, NC?
The population of Rutherfordton, NC is 3,669 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Rutherfordton?
The median household income in Rutherfordton, NC is $59,750 per year.
What is the median home value in Rutherfordton?
The median home value in Rutherfordton, NC is $226,900.
What is the average rent in Rutherfordton?
The median monthly rent in Rutherfordton, NC is $901.
What is the unemployment rate in Rutherfordton?
The unemployment rate in Rutherfordton, NC is 9.0%.