Saluda Public RecordsNorth Carolina

Saluda City, Polk County, NC, had a 2022 population of approximately 678. The median age is about 58, with 33% of residents aged 65 or older. Females make up 53% of the population, and males 47%. The racial composition is predominantly White (91%), with Black or African American (3%), Asian (0.7%), and Hispanic or Latino (3.6%). Other races and those identifying as two or more races comprise the remainder.

Saluda, in Polk County, NC, has a homeownership rate of about 78%, with median home values around $350,000 as of early 2024. Rentals are limited, with median rents near $1,200/month. The housing market trends upward, with values increasing approximately 5% annually. Housing types include historic craftsman homes and mountain cottages, mainly in quiet neighborhoods like downtown Saluda and routes along Pace’s Gap. Property tax rates average 0.6% of assessed value, making taxes approximately $2,100/year for a median-priced home. The area remains attractive for buyers seeking small-town charm and scenic mountain living.

Saluda, located in Polk County, NC, is served primarily by Saluda Elementary School (grades K-5); middle and high school students typically attend schools in nearby areas, such as Polk County High School. Polk County Schools district holds a graduation rate of around 91% and average SAT scores near 1090. Approximately 25% of Saluda’s adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. School safety ratings are above state average, and schools offer programs in STEM and the arts. There are no colleges in the city itself, but adult education is available in the county via Isothermal Community College.

Saluda, Polk County, NC, primarily relies on personal vehicles for transportation, with over 85% of workers commuting by car and less than 1% using public transit. The average one-way commute time is approximately 30 minutes, slightly above the national average. Public transportation options are limited, with no fixed-route bus service in Saluda itself. Most households (over 90%) own at least one vehicle. Major employment hubs are located outside the city, in nearby Hendersonville and Asheville, contributing to longer commutes for residents. Transportation infrastructure mainly consists of local and state-maintained roads, including U.S. Highway 176.

Saluda, located in Polk County, NC, lacks its own hospital; residents primarily utilize nearby St. Luke’s Hospital in Columbus (20 beds) and regional clinics, such as Saluda Family Medicine. Polk County's uninsured rate is approximately 13%, with about 27% of residents aged 65+, reflecting an older population. Common health issues include heart disease, diabetes, and obesity. Access to primary care is moderate, with a county average of one primary care provider per 2,100 residents. Medicaid and Medicare cover around 38% of the county’s population, indicating significant reliance on public insurance programs.