West Canton, NC
Population 1,369 · North Carolina
About West Canton, NC
West Canton is a small town located in North Carolina with a population of 1,369 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $35,583 per year, which is 53% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 45.9 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 West Canton features a median home value of $190,200, which is 22% below the national median of $244,900. This positions West Canton in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,129, 3% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 649 total housing units, 68% are owner-occupied (429 units) and 32% are renter-occupied (200 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in West Canton shows an unemployment rate of 6.6%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 9.1%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in West Canton have an average one-way commute time of 24.1 minutes.
Education & Demographics
14.2% of West Canton 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 2.8% White, 0.6% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 1.2% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in West Canton, NC
Compared to national averages, West Canton has a median household income of $35,583 (53% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $190,200, which is 22% below the national median. Monthly rent at $1,129 is 3% below the US average of $1,163. Within North Carolina, West Canton's income is 45% below the state average of $64,468, and home values are 17% below the state median of $228,922.
Why Live in West Canton, NC?
West Canton offers affordable housing with a median home value of $190,200, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $1,129/month, and a low poverty rate of 9.1%, better than the national average. Additionally, the city features short commute times averaging just 24.1 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($35,583) that falls below the national average. However, West Canton’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
West Canton has a population of 1,369 with a median age of 45.9 years. Compare West Canton with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in North Carolina.
Similar Cities Near West Canton
Cities in North Carolina with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bonnetsville | 1,368 | $41,217 | $89,300 | Compare |
| Alamance | 1,358 | $88,438 | $404,700 | Compare |
| Murphy | 1,356 | $36,989 | $221,100 | Compare |
| Hays | 1,355 | $54,063 | $158,900 | Compare |
| Pine Knoll Shores | 1,387 | $108,393 | $583,900 | Compare |
| Chadbourn | 1,347 | $19,853 | $100,300 | Compare |
| Cordova | 1,343 | $65,801 | $155,200 | Compare |
| Robbins | 1,398 | $50,023 | $102,900 | 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 West Canton With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about West Canton
What is the population of West Canton, NC?
The population of West Canton, NC is 1,369 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 West Canton?
The median household income in West Canton, NC is $35,583 per year, which is 53% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in West Canton?
The median home value in West Canton, NC is $190,200, which is 22% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in West Canton?
The median monthly rent in West Canton, NC is $1,129, which is 3% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in West Canton?
The unemployment rate in West Canton, NC is 6.6%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is West Canton, NC a good place to live?
West Canton offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 1,369 and a median age of 45.9, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is West Canton, NC?
14.2% of residents in West Canton 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 West Canton?
Key cost-of-living indicators for West Canton, NC: median home value is $190,200 (22% below national), median rent is $1,129/month, and median household income is $35,583. The home-value-to-income ratio is 5.3x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in West Canton?
The poverty rate in West Canton, NC is 9.1%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is West Canton, NC?
West Canton's population is 2.8% White, 0.6% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 4.8% two or more races. 1.2% of residents are foreign-born.