Winston-Salem offers a refreshing alternative to the typical American city, a place where affordability meets a vibrant lifestyle. Imagine strolling along streets with an impressive Walk Score of 86, easily accessing local shops and cafes. The city's commitment to walkability is matched by its affordability, with a median home value of just $178,000, significantly lower than the national average. You won't just find a place to live, but a community that's easy to navigate, with an incredibly high Affordability Index of 131, making homeownership attainable for many. The city's charm is further amplified by a Bike Score of 73, encouraging an active and engaged lifestyle.
From an investment standpoint, Winston-Salem presents a compelling case. The unemployment rate is a favorable 3.6%, reflecting a stable job market. The median rent of $1,608 provides a good balance between cost and quality of life. Property crime rates are moderate, at 25.4 per 1,000 residents, and the violent crime rate is 4.1 per 1,000 residents, which contributes to overall safety, and the homeownership rate is 16.0%. This city is ideal for first-time homebuyers, young professionals, and those seeking a more relaxed pace of life without sacrificing career opportunities.
Beyond the practicalities, Winston-Salem offers an excellent quality of life. The air quality is moderate, with an AQI of 52, ensuring residents can enjoy the outdoors with peace of mind. The noise level is rated as "Quiet," providing a serene environment. With an electricity rate of 10.2¢/kWh, utility costs are also reasonable. Winston-Salem's combination of affordability, walkability, and a focus on community makes it a genuinely appealing place to call home.
Median Home Value
$178,000
Median Income
$42,710
Population
249,545
Walk Score
86
Air Quality
AQI 52
Moderate
Climate Risk
Relatively Low
- Population
- 249,545
- Median Age
- N/A
- Median Household Income
- $42,710
- Bachelor's Degree+
- N/A
- Poverty Rate
- N/A
- Median Home Value
- $178,000
- Median Rent
- $1,608
- Homeownership Rate
- 16.0%
- Affordability Index
- 131
- Violent Crime Rate
- 4.1 per 1K
- Property Crime Rate
- 25.4 per 1K
- AQI
- 52
- Category
- Moderate
- Overall Risk
- Relatively Low
- Risk Score
- 27.5
Top Hazards
- Overall
- Quiet
- Road Traffic
- 0 dBA
- Aviation
- 0 dBA
- Rail
- 0 dBA
- Electricity Rate
- 10.2¢/kWh
- Est. Monthly Electric
- $92
- Unemployment Rate
- 3.6%
- Poverty Rate
- N/A
Weather & Climate in Winston-Salem
Avg High
70°F
Avg Low
50°F
Annual Rainfall
40.2"
Avg Humidity
68%
Political Landscape
→ Politically stable
Based on Forsyth County county-level presidential election data
Culture & Things to Do in Winston-Salem
RiverRun International Film Festival
A week-long film festival showcasing independent films.
Carolina Classic Fair
An annual fair featuring rides, food, and entertainment.
National Black Theatre Festival
A biennial festival celebrating Black theatre.
Fall Festival at Tanglewood Park
A fall festival with hayrides, pumpkin patches, and family activities.
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