Waynesville, NC
Population 10,408 · North Carolina
About Waynesville, NC
Waynesville is a mid-sized city in North Carolina with a population of 10,408 residents. The median household income is $50,554 per year, which is near the national average. The median age in Waynesville is 47.4 years.
Housing in Waynesville has a median home value of $254,800 and median monthly rent of $1,105. Of the 5,866 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 2,834 owner-occupied and 2,039 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Waynesville is 2.5% and the poverty rate is 15.3%. 31.3% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 18.7 minutes.
Cost of Living in Waynesville, NC
Compared to national averages, Waynesville has a median household income of $50,554 (33% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $254,800, which is 4% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,105 is 5% below the US average of $1,163. Within North Carolina, Waynesville's income is 22% below the state average of $64,468, and home values are 11% above the state median of $228,922.
Why Live in Waynesville, NC?
Waynesville offers rent that’s lower than the national average at $1,105/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 2.5%, and short commute times averaging just 18.7 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($50,554) that falls below the national average. However, Waynesville’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Waynesville has a population of 10,408 with a median age of 47.4 years. Compare Waynesville with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in North Carolina.
Similar Cities Near Waynesville
Cities in North Carolina with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rolesville | 10,200 | $148,250 | $467,400 | Compare |
| Winterville | 10,624 | $82,783 | $226,600 | Compare |
| Mount Airy | 10,631 | $39,873 | $176,600 | Compare |
| Tarboro | 10,705 | $49,386 | $155,500 | Compare |
| Pineville | 10,780 | $64,257 | $344,700 | Compare |
| Summerfield | 11,031 | $151,131 | $490,100 | Compare |
| Washington | 9,754 | $41,723 | $193,800 | Compare |
| Spout Springs | 11,073 | $87,905 | $310,100 | 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 Waynesville
What is the population of Waynesville, NC?
The population of Waynesville, NC is 10,408 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Waynesville?
The median household income in Waynesville, NC is $50,554 per year.
What is the median home value in Waynesville?
The median home value in Waynesville, NC is $254,800.
What is the average rent in Waynesville?
The median monthly rent in Waynesville, NC is $1,105.
What is the unemployment rate in Waynesville?
The unemployment rate in Waynesville, NC is 2.5%.