Avery County, North Carolina
Income Data
At a Glance
How Avery County Compares
Detailed Income Statistics
Data Story
About Household Income in Avery County, North Carolina
Avery earns less than national average
Avery County's median household income of $57,657 trails the national median of $74,755 by $17,098, placing it in the lower-middle tier of U.S. counties. Still, the county performs better than roughly 35% of American counties.
Slightly below North Carolina average
Avery's $57,657 median household income falls 5.6% below the state average of $61,072, ranking it in the middle-to-lower range among North Carolina counties. The county benefits from pockets of tourism and small-business activity.
Among region's stronger earners
Avery's $57,657 median income exceeds Ashe County ($50,827), Alleghany County ($44,272), and Anson County ($44,245), though it lags Alamance ($64,445) and Alexander ($65,268). The county's mountain setting and outdoor economy support more stability than its poorest rural neighbors.
Balanced housing costs at 16.5%
Avery's rent-to-income ratio of 16.5% signals healthy housing affordability, with families dedicating only one-sixth of income to rent. However, the median home value of $233,200 exceeds the county median income, reflecting property value pressures from tourism and retiree migration.
Stable foundation for long-term investing
Avery's favorable rent-to-income ratio of 16.5% frees up money for retirement and investment accounts. Households should consider opening or maximizing contributions to 401(k)s and IRAs to build generational wealth and combat the county's below-average income position.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Income Comparison Calculator
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County median: $57,657 per year
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vs. State Average
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vs. National Median
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Compare RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.