What to know when moving to Winston Salem, NC
Winston Salem at a Glance
- The Vibe:
- A community where 34.4% of residents hold a bachelor's degree and 66.6% are renters.
- The Major Draw:
- Median gross rent sits at $970, making it relatively affordable.
- The Reality Check:
- With a poverty rate of 25%, many residents face economic challenges.
- Commute:
- Only 4% of residents use public transit for their commute.
- Top Tip:
- Budget for $970 per month in rent, as that is the median gross rent here.
The 'Vibe' Check: Who Thrives Here?
Winston Salem has a population of 21,881, with a median household income of $44,611. The area is characterized by a significant renter population, with over two-thirds of residents renting their homes. Education levels are moderate, with 34.4% of the population holding a bachelor's degree. However, the poverty rate is notably high at 25%, indicating that economic hardship affects a substantial portion of the community.
Probably not your spot if you prefer areas with lower poverty rates and a higher percentage of homeowners.
Your Money: Housing & Cost Snapshot
- Median gross rent is $970, while the median home value is $201,500, making homeownership a more expensive option compared to renting.
- 34.4% of residents hold a bachelor's degree, suggesting a fairly educated community.
- The poverty rate is 25%, which reflects significant economic challenges.
- 66.6% of the population are renters, indicating a strong rental market.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 5-Year Data Profiles.
Crime & Safety: What the Numbers Say
In North Carolina, the property crime rate is 1,780.6 per 100,000 people, which is 15.1% higher than the national average of 1,546.9. The violent crime rate stands at 321 per 100,000, slightly lower than the national average of 325.3.
- Violent crime: 321 per 100k (North Carolina) vs. 325.3 per 100k (national average), showing a 21.5% decrease since 2022.
- Property crime: 1,780.6 per 100k (North Carolina) vs. 1,546.9 per 100k (national average), with a 15.1% decrease since 2022.
- Notable trend: Homicide rates have decreased by 23.2% since 2022, with a current rate of 6.4 per 100k.
Source: FBI Crime Data Explorer (state-level summarized data for North Carolina).
Schools & Higher Ed
Winston Salem has access to a total of 9 postsecondary institutions, all within Forsyth County.
- Carolina Christian College
- University of North Carolina School of the Arts
- Carolina University
- Empire Beauty School-Winston-Salem
- Forsyth Technical Community College
- Salem College
- Wake Forest University
- Winston Salem Barber School
- Winston-Salem State University
Source: ArcGIS Postsecondary School Locations (NCES) + College Scorecard (ED).
Weather & Getting Outside
While weather data is unavailable, Winston Salem offers several parks and outdoor spots that are worth visiting.
- Tanglewood Park - 4.7 stars (4,437 reviews)
- Old Salem Museums & Gardens - 4.7 stars (1,436 reviews)
- Fourth of July Park - 4.6 stars (1,417 reviews)
- Triad Park Field of Honor - 4.8 stars (1,318 reviews)
- Bailey Park - 4.7 stars (1,253 reviews)
Source: Google Places API (New).