Stanley, NC
Population 4,014 · North Carolina
About Stanley, NC
Stanley is a small town located in North Carolina with a population of 4,014 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $71,333 per year, which is 5% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 34.9 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 Stanley features a median home value of $229,000, which is 6% below the national median of $244,900. This positions Stanley in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,142, 2% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 1,578 total housing units, 71% are owner-occupied (1,043 units) and 29% are renter-occupied (425 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Stanley shows an unemployment rate of 5.3%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 6.6%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Stanley have an average one-way commute time of 27.6 minutes.
Education & Demographics
23.0% of Stanley 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 1.7% White, 1.0% Hispanic or Latino, 1.8% Black or African American, and 3.0% Asian residents, with 1.2% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Stanley, NC
Compared to national averages, Stanley has a median household income of $71,333 (5% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $229,000, which is 6% below the national median. Monthly rent at $1,142 is 2% below the US average of $1,163. Within North Carolina, Stanley's income is 11% above the state average of $64,468, and home values are 0% above the state median of $228,922.
Why Live in Stanley, NC?
Stanley offers affordable housing with a median home value of $229,000, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $1,142/month, and a low poverty rate of 6.6%, better than the national average.
Potential considerations include median household income ($71,333) that falls below the national average. However, Stanley’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Stanley has a population of 4,014 with a median age of 34.9 years. Compare Stanley with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in North Carolina.
Similar Cities Near Stanley
Cities in North Carolina with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Elkin | 4,025 | $60,434 | $187,200 | Compare |
| Trent Woods | 4,086 | $109,097 | $294,200 | Compare |
| Forest Oaks | 4,095 | $108,250 | $294,400 | Compare |
| Bethlehem | 3,928 | $78,963 | $290,600 | Compare |
| Emerald Isle | 3,915 | $89,432 | $563,600 | Compare |
| Swansboro | 3,887 | $112,382 | $356,900 | Compare |
| Southport | 4,143 | $82,792 | $394,900 | Compare |
| Benson | 4,144 | $65,614 | $176,000 | 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 Stanley With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Stanley
What is the population of Stanley, NC?
The population of Stanley, NC is 4,014 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small town in North Carolina.
What is the median household income in Stanley?
The median household income in Stanley, NC is $71,333 per year, which is 5% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Stanley?
The median home value in Stanley, NC is $229,000, which is 6% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Stanley?
The median monthly rent in Stanley, NC is $1,142, which is 2% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Stanley?
The unemployment rate in Stanley, NC is 5.3%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Stanley, NC a good place to live?
Stanley offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 4,014 and a median age of 34.9, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Stanley, NC?
23.0% of residents in Stanley 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 Stanley?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Stanley, NC: median home value is $229,000 (6% below national), median rent is $1,142/month, and median household income is $71,333. The home-value-to-income ratio is 3.2x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Stanley?
The poverty rate in Stanley, NC is 6.6%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Stanley, NC?
Stanley's population is 1.7% White, 1.0% Hispanic or Latino, 1.8% Black or African American, 3.0% Asian, and 6.4% two or more races. 1.2% of residents are foreign-born.