Vander, NC
Population 1,614 · North Carolina
About Vander, NC
Vander is a small town located in North Carolina with a population of 1,614 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $63,611 per year, which is 15% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 49.4 years is notably older the US median age of 38.9 years, suggesting a more established community with a higher proportion of long-term residents.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Vander features a median home value of $219,900, which is 10% below the national median of $244,900. This positions Vander in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $916, 21% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 732 total housing units, 76% are owner-occupied (488 units) and 24% are renter-occupied (156 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Vander shows an unemployment rate of 5.3%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 29.7%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Vander have an average one-way commute time of 28.2 minutes.
Education & Demographics
21.1% of Vander 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 0.0% White, 3.3% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 1.5% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Vander, NC
Compared to national averages, Vander has a median household income of $63,611 (15% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $219,900, which is 10% below the national median. Monthly rent at $916 is 21% below the US average of $1,163. Within North Carolina, Vander's income is 1% below the state average of $64,468, and home values are 4% below the state median of $228,922.
Why Live in Vander, NC?
Vander offers affordable housing with a median home value of $219,900, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $916/month.
Potential considerations include median household income ($63,611) that falls below the national average. However, Vander’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Vander has a population of 1,614 with a median age of 49.4 years. Compare Vander with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in North Carolina.
Similar Cities Near Vander
Cities in North Carolina with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stedman | 1,613 | $105,491 | $205,800 | Compare |
| Nebo | 1,608 | $47,907 | $104,100 | Compare |
| Hoopers Creek | 1,623 | $64,792 | $297,300 | Compare |
| Sharpsburg | 1,629 | $39,792 | $116,700 | Compare |
| Cherokee | 1,631 | $48,173 | $192,700 | Compare |
| Pilot Mountain | 1,584 | $48,239 | $185,200 | Compare |
| Plain View | 1,647 | $75,058 | $205,700 | Compare |
| West Jefferson | 1,567 | $54,306 | $217,900 | 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 Vander With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Vander
What is the population of Vander, NC?
The population of Vander, NC is 1,614 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 Vander?
The median household income in Vander, NC is $63,611 per year, which is 15% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Vander?
The median home value in Vander, NC is $219,900, which is 10% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Vander?
The median monthly rent in Vander, NC is $916, which is 21% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Vander?
The unemployment rate in Vander, 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 Vander, NC a good place to live?
Vander offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 1,614 and a median age of 49.4, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Vander, NC?
21.1% of residents in Vander 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 Vander?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Vander, NC: median home value is $219,900 (10% below national), median rent is $916/month, and median household income is $63,611. The home-value-to-income ratio is 3.5x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Vander?
The poverty rate in Vander, NC is 29.7%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. Residents and prospective movers should be aware of the economic challenges facing parts of this community.
How diverse is Vander, NC?
Vander's population is 0.0% White, 3.3% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 35.1% two or more races. 1.5% of residents are foreign-born.