Stem, NC
Population 1,064 · North Carolina
About Stem, NC
Stem is a small town located in North Carolina with a population of 1,064 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $85,385 per year, which is 14% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 30.4 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 Stem features a median home value of $207,600, which is 15% below the national median of $244,900. This positions Stem in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $983, 15% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 401 total housing units, 97% are owner-occupied (361 units) and 3% are renter-occupied (11 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Stem shows an unemployment rate of 2.1%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 2.6%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Stem have an average one-way commute time of 32 minutes.
Education & Demographics
33.1% of Stem residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This is in line with national trends in educational attainment. The community's demographic composition includes 8.6% White, 0.6% Hispanic or Latino, 0.2% Black or African American, and 0.2% Asian residents, with 4.3% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Stem, NC
Compared to national averages, Stem has a median household income of $85,385 (14% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $207,600, which is 15% below the national median. Monthly rent at $983 is 15% below the US average of $1,163. Within North Carolina, Stem's income is 32% above the state average of $64,468, and home values are 9% below the state median of $228,922.
Why Live in Stem, NC?
Stem offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $85,385, well above the national average, and affordable housing with a median home value of $207,600, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $983/month. Additionally, the city features a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 2.1%, and a low poverty rate of 2.6%, better than the national average.
Stem has a population of 1,064 with a median age of 30.4 years. Compare Stem with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in North Carolina.
Similar Cities Near Stem
Cities in North Carolina with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Efland | 1,064 | $72,396 | $192,900 | Compare |
| Rhodhiss | 1,062 | $48,125 | $113,400 | Compare |
| Toast | 1,066 | $33,914 | $93,900 | Compare |
| Maury | 1,069 | $18,362 | $83,800 | Compare |
| Ellerbe | 1,070 | $48,404 | $107,200 | Compare |
| Camden | 1,072 | $81,583 | $360,200 | Compare |
| Cleveland | 1,053 | $60,063 | $205,800 | Compare |
| Norlina | 1,050 | $34,659 | $88,200 | 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 Stem With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Stem
What is the population of Stem, NC?
The population of Stem, NC is 1,064 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 Stem?
The median household income in Stem, NC is $85,385 per year, which is 14% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Stem?
The median home value in Stem, NC is $207,600, which is 15% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Stem?
The median monthly rent in Stem, NC is $983, which is 15% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Stem?
The unemployment rate in Stem, NC is 2.1%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Stem, NC a good place to live?
Stem offers above-average incomes, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 1,064 and a median age of 30.4, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Stem, NC?
33.1% of residents in Stem 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 Stem?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Stem, NC: median home value is $207,600 (15% below national), median rent is $983/month, and median household income is $85,385. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.4x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Stem?
The poverty rate in Stem, NC is 2.6%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Stem, NC?
Stem's population is 8.6% White, 0.6% Hispanic or Latino, 0.2% Black or African American, 0.2% Asian, and 26.7% two or more races. 4.3% of residents are foreign-born.