Waynesville, NC

Below Avg · 75

North Carolina · Population 10,408 · Updated March 2026

$1,105
Median Rent / Month
$50,554
Median Income
$254,800
Median Home Value
$902
Owner Costs / Month

Affordability

How far your income goes in Waynesville

26.2%
Rent-to-Income Ratio
Moderate
Rent takes 25-35% of median income — moderate affordability.

Tax Burden in North Carolina

State-level tax rates that affect your costs

4.5%
Income Tax (Top Rate)
4.75%
Sales Tax
0.8%
Property Tax Rate

Estimated Annual Costs

$13,260
Annual Rent
$2,275
State Income Tax
$2,038
Property Tax (est.)

Cost of Living Overview

Waynesville is significantly cheaper than the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and families. With a cost index of 75 (where 100 equals the national median), Waynesville residents can expect to pay median rent of $1,105/month while earning a median household income of $50,554/year.

The median home value in Waynesville, NC is $254,800, with typical monthly owner costs around $902 including mortgage, insurance, and taxes. With a rent-to-income ratio of 26.2%, Waynesville falls within the generally affordable range, though it's approaching the 30% burden threshold.

North Carolina has a moderate income tax rate of 4.5%. Combined with a 4.75% sales tax rate and 0.8% effective property tax rate, the overall tax environment is a factor in the total cost of living in Waynesville.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about living costs in Waynesville

What is the cost of living in Waynesville, NC?
The cost of living index in Waynesville, NC is 75 (US average = 100). Median monthly rent is $1,105, median household income is $50,554/year, and the median home value is $254,800.
Is Waynesville, NC affordable?
Yes, Waynesville is more affordable than the national average with a cost index of 75. The rent-to-income ratio is 26.2%—below the 30%% threshold considered affordable by HUD.
What is the average rent in Waynesville, NC?
The median gross rent in Waynesville, NC is $1,105 per month according to the US Census Bureau ACS 2023 data. Annual rent costs approximately $13,260.
What is the median household income in Waynesville?
The median household income in Waynesville, NC is $50,554 per year. This compares to the national median of approximately $80,000.
What are the taxes like in North Carolina?
North Carolina has a top income tax rate of 4.5%, a sales tax of 4.75%, and an effective property tax rate of 0.8%.