Waynesville City Demographics

Waynesville, located in Haywood County, NC, had a 2020 population of approximately 10,140. The median age is about 46.9 years, reflecting a relatively older community. Females make up 53% of the population, while males account for 47%. Racially, Waynesville is 92% White, 3% Black or African American, 2% Hispanic or Latino, 1% Asian, and 2% from other or mixed races. The town’s demographics highlight its predominantly White and aging population.

Waynesville City Housing

Waynesville, Haywood County, NC, offers a median home value of around $325,000 (2024), with approximately 68% homeownership and 32% rentals; median rent is about $1,150/month. Housing includes historic craftsman homes, mountain cabins, and new developments like Laurel Ridge. Popular neighborhoods are Hazelwood and Eagle Nest. Property values have risen 8% year-over-year due to high demand and limited inventory. The county property tax rate is approximately $0.54 per $100 assessed value, below the national average. Rental vacancies remain low, reflecting strong demand.

Education in Waynesville City

Waynesville, located in Haywood County, NC, is served by Haywood County Schools, which includes 3 elementary, 1 middle, and 1 high school (Tuscola High School). Tuscola High has a graduation rate of 90% and offers AP and vocational programs. Roughly 28% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. School safety measures are strong, with all schools participating in state safety initiatives. The district’s average overall school rating is 7/10 (GreatSchools). Adult education is supported by Haywood Community College. Enrichment programs in arts, STEM, and sports are widely available.

Transportation in Waynesville City

Waynesville, Haywood County, NC, primarily relies on personal vehicles for transportation, with approximately 85% of residents commuting by car and less than 1% using public transit. The average commute time is around 22 minutes, slightly below the national average. Public transit options are limited, mainly served by Haywood Public Transit for seniors and disabled riders. Most households (over 90%) have access to at least one vehicle. Key employment hubs include Mission Hospital, Haywood County Schools, and retail centers along Russ Avenue and Main Street, supported by US Route 23/74 and NC Highway 209 as main thoroughfares.

Waynesville City Healthcare

Waynesville, the largest town in Haywood County, NC, is primarily served by Haywood Regional Medical Center, a 154-bed hospital, alongside several clinics and urgent care centers. The area has approximately 8.8 primary care physicians per 10,000 residents, with an uninsured rate of 13% (as of 2021). The population skews older, with 28% aged 65+, contributing to prevalent health issues such as heart disease, diabetes, and COPD. Medicaid and Medicare cover a significant portion of patients, with most residents accessing healthcare within the county’s medical facilities or nearby Asheville.

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