Gastonia City Demographics

Gastonia, the largest city in Gaston County, NC, has a 2022 estimated population of about 81,000. The median age is around 38 years. Females comprise approximately 53% and males 47% of the population. The racial/ethnic composition is 56% White, 28% Black or African American, 2% Asian, and about 11% Hispanic or Latino of any race. Gastonia continues to show modest population growth and increasing diversity.

Gastonia City Housing

Gastonia, Gaston County, NC, boasts a median home price of around $270,000 as of 2024, with an average monthly rent near $1,400. Homeownership rates are approximately 56%, with popular neighborhoods including Cramer Woods and Gardner Park. Single-family homes dominate, but townhomes and apartments are available. Over the past year, property values have risen by roughly 5%. The county property tax rate is about $0.83 per $100 assessed value. Gastonia offers affordable living compared to Charlotte, contributing to steady population growth and demand in various housing options.

Education in Gastonia City

Gastonia, in Gaston County, NC, is served by Gaston County Schools, which operates 10 high schools among its 56 schools overall. Around 85% of residents hold at least a high school diploma, while about 21% possess a bachelor’s degree or higher. The district’s average graduation rate is 85%, and several schools score 5-7 out of 10 on GreatSchools. Adult education is offered through Gaston College. School safety initiatives are in place, with resource officers in every school. Various educational programs, including STEM and advanced placement, enhance learning opportunities for students.

Transportation in Gastonia City

Gastonia, NC, features a transport network dominated by personal vehicles, with about 91% of commuters driving to work and only around 0.6% using public transit. The average one-way commute is approximately 25 minutes. Public transportation is provided by Gastonia Transit, operating several fixed routes. Vehicle ownership is high, with roughly 92% of households owning at least one car. Major employment hubs include CaroMont Regional Medical Center, manufacturing plants, and retail centers. Key infrastructure includes I-85 and US-321, facilitating regional connectivity and access to nearby Charlotte.

Gastonia City Healthcare

Gastonia, Gaston County, NC, features major healthcare providers like CaroMont Regional Medical Center (435 beds) and numerous clinics. The city has over 300 primary care physicians and specialists. About 87% of Gaston County residents have health insurance coverage. Patient demographics are 59% White, 27% Black, and 10% Hispanic/Latino. Common health issues include heart disease, diabetes, and obesity, with county adult obesity rates at 37%. Access to care is good, with a median wait time of 14 minutes at urgent care clinics. Gastonia's healthcare system blends public and private providers, enhancing accessibility.

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