Waco City Demographics

Waco city in Cleveland County, North Carolina, had a population of approximately 315 as of the 2020 Census. The median age is around 47 years, indicating an older population. Females slightly outnumber males, comprising about 52% of residents. Racially, Waco is predominantly White (over 85%), with African Americans making up roughly 10%, and other races, including Hispanic or Latino, accounting for less than 5%.

Waco City Housing

Waco, a small community near Cleveland in Rowan County, NC, offers predominantly single-family homes, with homeownership rates around 75%. Median home values average $220,000, rising about 5% annually. Rentals are limited, with median monthly rents near $1,100. Popular neighborhoods include nearby Barber Junction and Mount Ulla. Property taxes are relatively low, averaging 0.68% of assessed value. The area appeals to families seeking affordable, spacious housing in a rural setting with easy access to amenities in Cleveland and Statesville.

Education in Waco City

Waco, a small unincorporated community near Cleveland, NC, is served by Rowan-Salisbury Schools, with West Rowan High School as the primary high school nearby. The area has 3 public schools within a 10-mile radius and an average school rating of 5/10. Around 15% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. School safety scores average 6/10, and educational programs include career-technical pathways and college-credit options through Rowan-Cabarrus Community College. Adult education opportunities, including GED programs, are available locally.

Transportation in Waco City

Waco is an unincorporated community in Cleveland County, NC, not directly near Cleveland city or significant urban centers. Transportation primarily relies on personal vehicles; over 95% of commuters drive alone, with negligible public transit usage due to limited service. The average one-way commute time is around 25–28 minutes, consistent with county data. Most households own at least two vehicles. Major thoroughfares include NC Highway 226. Employment hubs are centered in nearby Shelby, Gastonia, and Kings Mountain. Public transit options, such as Cleveland County Transit, see low ridership, underscoring the area’s auto-dependence.

Waco City Healthcare

Waco, located near Cleveland in Cleveland County, NC, is served primarily by Atrium Health Cleveland (in nearby Shelby) with no major hospital in Waco itself. Residents access care through small local clinics and providers such as Cleveland County Health Department. The area serves a rural population (county population ~99,500; Waco town ~300), with about 15% uninsured and 20% on Medicaid. Common health issues include cardiovascular disease, diabetes (12%), and obesity (40% adult rate). Access barriers include transportation and cost, while primary care ratio in Cleveland County is about 1 provider per 2,010 people.

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