Rocky Mount

Rocky Mount, North Carolina Overview

Rocky Mount faces challenges across several categories, earning a F grade (38.1/100) and ranking #20 of 20 cities in North Carolina. Even so, the city scores 84/100 in Affordability — a relative bright spot compared to its Outdoor Access score of 14/100.

Income & Employment in Rocky Mount

Rocky Mount’s median income of $52,927 is 21% below the state median, but positive population growth of 0.3% signals that affordability or other factors are still attracting residents. The local unemployment rate is 5.7%.

Safety in Rocky Mount

With a violent crime rate of 881.8 per 100,000, Rocky Mount exceeds the North Carolina average of 380. Safety is a factor prospective residents should weigh carefully. The property crime rate is 3302.7 per 100,000.

Cost of Living in Rocky Mount

With a cost of living index of 88.2, Rocky Mount is well below the national average of 100, offering meaningful savings on everyday expenses. The median home value is $148,300. Median monthly rent is $919. Renters spend 20.8% of income on rent, well within the 30% affordability guideline.

Health & Wellness in Rocky Mount

The adult obesity rate in Rocky Mount is 42.4%, above the national average and a factor in the city’s health profile. Diabetes prevalence is elevated at 17.7%. Residents report an average of 18 poor mental health days per month, above the typical range. North Carolina ranks #32 nationally for overall health.

Education & Schools in Rocky Mount

Rocky Mount has a high school graduation rate of 85.7%. The student-teacher ratio is 17.4:1. Per-pupil spending is $12,360. The city has 20 public schools serving 9,465 students. School data is sourced from the NCES Common Core of Data and EDFacts.

Climate in Rocky Mount

Rocky Mount enjoys a moderate climate with an annual average of 58°F. Summers average 74.7°F. Winters average 43°F. Annual precipitation is 43.9 inches.

Frequently Asked Questions