Sparta City Demographics

As of the 2020 Census, Sparta, located in Alleghany County, NC, has a population of approximately 1,834 residents. The median age is about 47 years, with 53% female and 47% male. The racial composition is 85% White, 2% Black or African American, 0.4% Native American, 0.2% Asian, and 10% Hispanic or Latino of any race. The town features a mix of older adults and a small but growing Hispanic community.

Sparta City Housing

Sparta, Alleghany, NC, has a homeownership rate of around 62%, with median home values near $180,000 and median rents about $700/month. Most homes are single-family houses, with some mobile homes and apartments. Neighborhoods offer rural and suburban vibes, with safe, close-knit communities. Property values have risen roughly 8% year-over-year. Property taxes are relatively low, averaging 0.7% of assessed value, equaling about $1,260 annually on a median-priced home. The housing stock is mostly owner-occupied, attracting families and retirees seeking affordable living within scenic mountain surroundings.

Education in Sparta City

Sparta, located in Alleghany County, NC, is served primarily by Alleghany County Schools, which includes one high school—Alleghany High (grades 9-12). The district has a total of 3 public schools, with an average graduation rate of 89% and a student-teacher ratio of 13:1. Approximately 17.8% of adults possess a bachelor’s degree or higher. School safety is prioritized, with schools reporting low incident rates (less than 2 incidents per 100 students annually). Educational programs include Advanced Placement and career/technical courses, but higher education opportunities locally are limited.

Transportation in Sparta City

Transportation in Sparta, Alleghany County, NC is dominated by private vehicles, with over 85% of workers commuting by car and a vehicle ownership rate above 95%. Public transit usage is minimal (under 1%). The average one-way commute time is about 22 minutes, shorter than the national average. Transportation infrastructure includes US Route 21 and NC Highway 18, connecting to nearby employment hubs such as healthcare, education, and government. Walkability is limited, reflecting the area’s rural character. Few residents carpool (about 8%), and biking or walking to work accounts for less than 2% of commutes.

Sparta City Healthcare

Sparta, the county seat of Alleghany County, NC, is served by Alleghany Health, a 25-bed critical access hospital offering emergency, inpatient, and outpatient care. The town has several primary care clinics and limited specialist access, with 15.7% of residents uninsured (US Census, 2021). The county’s 10,800 residents are 95% White, with a median age of 48. Common health issues include heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory illnesses. Healthcare provider shortages are notable, with just 2.7 physicians per 10,000 residents, compared to the national average of 8.3. Telehealth options have expanded recently.

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