Gastonia

Gastonia, North Carolina Overview

Gastonia faces challenges across several categories, earning a D grade (45.0/100) and ranking #15 of 20 cities in North Carolina. Even so, the city scores 77/100 in Affordability — a relative bright spot compared to its Outdoor Access score of 14/100.

Income & Employment in Gastonia

The median household income in Gastonia is $63,597, 5% below the statewide median of $66,880. The local unemployment rate of 3.9% is higher than the state’s 3.5%. Population grew 1.5% recently.

Safety in Gastonia

With a violent crime rate of 813.2 per 100,000, Gastonia exceeds the North Carolina average of 380. Safety is a factor prospective residents should weigh carefully. The property crime rate is 3893.1 per 100,000.

Cost of Living in Gastonia

Gastonia has a cost of living index of 97 (where 100 equals the national average), slightly below the national benchmark. The median home value is $250,000. Median monthly rent is $1,145. Renters spend 21.6% of income on rent, well within the 30% affordability guideline.

Health & Wellness in Gastonia

The adult obesity rate in Gastonia is 37.8%, above the national average and a factor in the city’s health profile. The diabetes prevalence rate is 13.5%. Residents report an average of 17.6 poor mental health days per month, above the typical range. North Carolina ranks #32 nationally for overall health.

Education & Schools in Gastonia

Gastonia has a high school graduation rate of 88.3%. The student-teacher ratio is 17:1. Per-pupil spending is $11,659. The city has 23 public schools serving 15,089 students. School data is sourced from the NCES Common Core of Data and EDFacts.

Climate in Gastonia

Gastonia enjoys a moderate climate with an annual average of 62.9°F. Summers average 77.7°F. Winters average 49.9°F. Annual precipitation is 50.6 inches.

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