Smithfield, NC
Population 11,798 · North Carolina
About Smithfield, NC
Smithfield is a mid-sized city in North Carolina with a population of 11,798 residents. The median household income is $37,827 per year, which is below the national average. The median age in Smithfield is 42.7 years.
Housing in Smithfield has a median home value of $217,000 and median monthly rent of $601. Of the 5,447 total housing units, renting is more common than owning, with 2,353 owner-occupied and 2,412 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Smithfield is 8.2% and the poverty rate is 31.4%. 26.0% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 24 minutes.
How Smithfield Ranks in North Carolina
Cost of Living in Smithfield, NC
Compared to national averages, Smithfield has a median household income of $37,827 (50% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $217,000, which is 11% below the national median. Monthly rent at $601 is 48% below the US average of $1,163. Within North Carolina, Smithfield's income is 41% below the state average of $64,468, and home values are 5% below the state median of $228,922.
Why Live in Smithfield, NC?
Smithfield offers affordable housing with a median home value of $217,000, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $601/month, and short commute times averaging just 24 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($37,827) that falls below the national average. However, Smithfield’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Smithfield has a population of 11,798 with a median age of 42.7 years. Compare Smithfield with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in North Carolina.
Similar Cities Near Smithfield
Cities in North Carolina with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spring Lake | 11,613 | $50,497 | $101,300 | Compare |
| Archdale | 11,992 | $64,984 | $188,200 | Compare |
| Wendell | 11,585 | $93,848 | $316,700 | Compare |
| Lincolnton | 11,503 | $43,294 | $224,600 | Compare |
| Kings Mountain | 11,472 | $45,507 | $177,700 | Compare |
| Elon | 11,325 | $82,717 | $355,800 | Compare |
| Myrtle Grove | 12,404 | $112,139 | $398,600 | Compare |
| Lake Norman of Iredell | 12,496 | $194,519 | $839,900 | 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 Smithfield
What is the population of Smithfield, NC?
The population of Smithfield, NC is 11,798 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Smithfield?
The median household income in Smithfield, NC is $37,827 per year.
What is the median home value in Smithfield?
The median home value in Smithfield, NC is $217,000.
What is the average rent in Smithfield?
The median monthly rent in Smithfield, NC is $601.
What is the unemployment rate in Smithfield?
The unemployment rate in Smithfield, NC is 8.2%.