Rutherford County, North Carolina
Income Data
At a Glance
How Rutherford County Compares
Detailed Income Statistics
Data Story
About Household Income in Rutherford County, North Carolina
Rutherford earns 33% below national average
Rutherford County's median household income of $49,771 falls significantly short of the national median of $74,755, a gap of $25,000 per year. This places the county in the lower third nationally for household earning power. The disparity reflects broader economic challenges in rural North Carolina compared to more prosperous urban and suburban regions across the U.S.
Below average among North Carolina counties
At $49,771, Rutherford's median household income trails the state average of $61,072 by more than $11,000 annually. The county ranks in the lower half of North Carolina's 100 counties for household income. This gap suggests limited access to higher-wage employment sectors that drive earnings in more economically dynamic regions of the state.
Less prosperous than surrounding piedmont
Rutherford's $49,771 median income lags behind neighboring Stanly County ($61,631) and Transylvania County ($64,523), both within the state's upper-middle income range. Compared to peer rural counties like Sampson ($53,159) and Surry ($56,095), Rutherford consistently underperforms. This regional income disparity reflects differences in industrial base and employment opportunities across the piedmont.
Housing costs manageable but income tight
At 18% of household income, Rutherford's rent-to-income ratio remains affordable—well below the 30% threshold that signals housing cost burden. However, the median home value of $180,800 requires annual income well above the county median, creating barriers for homeownership. For renters and existing homeowners, the income level leaves limited cushion for other essential expenses like healthcare and education.
Strategic saving builds long-term security
Rutherford families earning the median $49,771 can build wealth through disciplined saving and investment, starting even with modest monthly contributions to retirement accounts. Employer-sponsored 401(k) plans with matching contributions offer immediate returns on investment. Community resources like financial literacy programs and low-cost investment platforms help households bridge the income gap through wealth accumulation over time.
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Income Comparison Calculator
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Your income is above the Rutherford County median
County median: $49,771 per year
vs. County Median
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vs. State Average
-19%
vs. National Median
-33%
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Your monthly income ($4,148) vs. median rent ($748/mo). A ratio of 3.3x or higher means rent is under 30% of income.
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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.