Stanley, NC
Population 4,014 · North Carolina
About Stanley, NC
Stanley is a small community in North Carolina with a population of 4,014 residents. The median household income is $71,333 per year, which is above the national average. The median age in Stanley is 34.9 years.
Housing in Stanley has a median home value of $229,000 and median monthly rent of $1,142. Of the 1,578 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 1,043 owner-occupied and 425 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Stanley is 5.3% and the poverty rate is 6.6%. 23.0% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 27.6 minutes.
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.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Stanley
What is the population of Stanley, NC?
The population of Stanley, NC is 4,014 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Stanley?
The median household income in Stanley, NC is $71,333 per year.
What is the median home value in Stanley?
The median home value in Stanley, NC is $229,000.
What is the average rent in Stanley?
The median monthly rent in Stanley, NC is $1,142.
What is the unemployment rate in Stanley?
The unemployment rate in Stanley, NC is 5.3%.