Shelby City Demographics

Shelby city, in Cleveland County, North Carolina, has an estimated population of around 19,700. The median age is about 40 years. Females comprise approximately 54% of the population, while males make up 46%. Racially, Shelby is about 54% White, 37% Black or African American, 4% Hispanic or Latino, and 2% identifying as two or more races. Other racial groups, such as Asian and Native American, each represent less than 1% of residents.

Shelby City Housing

Shelby, a city in Cleveland County, NC, offers affordable homeownership, with a median home value around $180,000 and average rents near $1,000/month. The housing market has seen steady annual growth of about 5%. Most homes are single-family, with some apartments and townhouses in neighborhoods like Spring Forest and Deer Brook. The homeownership rate is approximately 55%. Property taxes in Cleveland County average 0.78% of assessed value, making it relatively budget-friendly for residents.

Education in Shelby City

Shelby city in Cleveland County, NC, is served primarily by Cleveland County Schools, featuring 1 public high school (Shelby High) and several elementary and middle schools in the district. The high school graduation rate is approximately 87%, while around 18% of adults hold a bachelor's degree or higher. Schools average a GreatSchools rating of 5/10, and school safety is generally regarded as adequate with ongoing resource officer presence. Educational programs include Advanced Placement and vocational training, supporting over 2,000 students. Adult education opportunities are also available through Cleveland Community College in nearby Shelby.

Transportation in Shelby City

Shelby, in Cleveland County, NC, relies heavily on personal vehicles, with about 90% of workers commuting by car and less than 0.5% using public transit. The average one-way commute is roughly 23 minutes. Public transportation options are limited, primarily served by the Cleveland County Transit. Major employment hubs include Atrium Health Cleveland and local manufacturing plants. Vehicle ownership is high, with over 93% of households owning at least one car. Transportation infrastructure includes access to US-74 and NC-18, connecting residents to nearby cities and supporting commuter mobility within the region.

Shelby City Healthcare

Shelby, located in Cleveland County, NC, is served by Atrium Health Cleveland, a 241-bed hospital, and multiple clinics such as Shelby Children’s Clinic and Cleveland Pediatrics. The county has approximately 1 physician per 1,600 residents, with 85% insured (2021 Census). The population is 56% White, 34% Black, 6% Hispanic, and faces higher rates of diabetes (14%) and heart disease compared to the state average. Healthcare access is challenged by a 16% poverty rate, with Medicaid covering about 23% of residents. Despite resources, preventable hospitalizations remain above North Carolina’s average.

Other Cities in North Carolina