Staley, NC
Population 532 · North Carolina
About Staley, NC
Staley is a small community located in North Carolina with a population of 532 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $61,875 per year, which is 18% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 34.5 years is notably younger the US median age of 38.9 years, indicating a younger, often more dynamic population base.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Staley features a median home value of $133,800, which is 45% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Staley one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $905, 22% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 204 total housing units, 70% are owner-occupied (125 units) and 30% are renter-occupied (54 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Staley shows an unemployment rate of 5.0%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 10.2%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Staley have an average one-way commute time of 32.1 minutes.
Education & Demographics
12.1% of Staley 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 3.8% White, 1.7% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 10.0% Asian residents, with 8.3% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Staley, NC
Compared to national averages, Staley has a median household income of $61,875 (18% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $133,800, which is 45% below the national median. Monthly rent at $905 is 22% below the US average of $1,163. Within North Carolina, Staley's income is 4% below the state average of $64,468, and home values are 42% below the state median of $228,922.
Why Live in Staley, NC?
Staley offers affordable housing with a median home value of $133,800, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $905/month, and a low poverty rate of 10.2%, better than the national average.
Potential considerations include median household income ($61,875) that falls below the national average. However, Staley’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Staley has a population of 532 with a median age of 34.5 years. Compare Staley with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in North Carolina.
Similar Cities Near Staley
Cities in North Carolina with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Minnesott Beach | 529 | $72,344 | $266,200 | Compare |
| Carolina Meadows | 536 | $133,090 | $514,900 | Compare |
| Teachey | 528 | $49,828 | $182,500 | Compare |
| Ruth | 526 | $48,125 | $122,000 | Compare |
| Riegelwood | 539 | $0 | $181,800 | Compare |
| Atlantic | 541 | $48,750 | $157,000 | Compare |
| Polkville | 542 | $66,607 | $155,600 | Compare |
| Deep Run | 548 | $46,913 | $65,900 | 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.
Compare Staley With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Staley
What is the population of Staley, NC?
The population of Staley, NC is 532 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 Staley?
The median household income in Staley, NC is $61,875 per year, which is 18% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Staley?
The median home value in Staley, NC is $133,800, which is 45% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Staley?
The median monthly rent in Staley, NC is $905, which is 22% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Staley?
The unemployment rate in Staley, NC is 5.0%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Staley, NC a good place to live?
Staley offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 532 and a median age of 34.5, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Staley, NC?
12.1% of residents in Staley 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 Staley?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Staley, NC: median home value is $133,800 (45% below national), median rent is $905/month, and median household income is $61,875. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.2x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Staley?
The poverty rate in Staley, NC is 10.2%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Staley, NC?
Staley's population is 3.8% White, 1.7% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 10.0% Asian, and 16.0% two or more races. 8.3% of residents are foreign-born.