High Point, NC: A 2026 Relocation Deep Dive

1. High Point: The Data Profile (2026)

High Point represents a specific tier of mid-sized Southern cities: economically accessible but statistically distinct from national averages. The city's population stands at 116,205, placing it in the "smaller city" demographic. The primary economic friction point for incoming professionals is the income gap; the median household income is $57,436, which is 23.0% lower than the US median of $74,580.

However, the educational attainment rate offers a nuance: 31.5% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher, trailing the US average of 33.1% by a marginal 1.6%.

Statistical Target Demographic:
The data suggests High Point is optimized for remote-first workers earning above the local median, or dual-income households where one earner leverages a national salary. The cost-of-living offset (12.0% lower housing index) mathematically neutralizes the 23.0% income deficit, making it a high-value proposition for those not tethered to local wages.

2. Cost of Living Analysis

The Cost of Living Index (COLI) in High Point is 88.0, meaning a resident can live comfortably on 12.0% less than the national baseline. While the income is lower, the purchasing power is higher.

Table 1: Cost of Living Breakdown (Monthly Budgets)

Note: Utility costs derived from verified rate of 14.13 cents/kWh vs US avg 16.0 cents/kWh.

Disposable Income Analysis:
A single person earning the median income of $57,436 (approx. $3,600 monthly take-home) faces a surplus of $875/month after the budget outlined above. However, a family of 4 on a single median income would be cash-flow negative. The economic viability of High Point for families relies on dual incomes or earnings significantly above the local median.

3. Housing Market Deep Dive

The housing market is High Point's strongest asset. The 12.0% discount on the housing index drives significant affordability. The rental market is particularly attractive for those priced out of national metros.

Table 2: Housing Market Data (Buying vs Renting Analysis)

Buy vs. Rent Analysis:
With a median home price of $245,000, the buy vs. rent break-even horizon is short. A $1,330 monthly rent payment translates to a mortgage payment on roughly $220,000 (assuming 6.5% rates). Given the median price is $245,000, renting is currently cash-flow positive compared to buying, but buying offers equity capture in a market 41.1% cheaper than the US median.

4. Economic & Job Market Outlook

High Point's economy is anchored by furniture and logistics, but the 2026 post-remote landscape has shifted the dynamic. The local unemployment rate is 3.8%, slightly better than the US average of 4.0%, indicating a tight labor market.

However, the 23.0% income deficit suggests that local employers are not paying national wages. For the "Hybrid" commuter, High Point is geographically strategic. It sits between Greensboro and Winston-Salem, offering access to the Piedmont Triad International Airport (GSO).

Commute & RTO Impact:
Average commute times remain low at 23 minutes, significantly better than the national average of 28 minutes. For remote workers, the $57,436 local median is irrelevant; earning a national salary ($80k+) while living in High Point creates a massive wealth-generation delta.

5. Quality of Life Audit

Health metrics in High Point require attention. While the aggregate Health Score is 79.0/100 (Good), specific risk factors are elevated.

Table 3: Quality of Life Metrics

Safety & Environment:

• Violent Crime: 419 per 100k (US Avg: 380). This is 10.3% higher than the national average.
• Property Crime: 2,457 per 100k (US Avg: 2,000). This is 22.9% higher than the national average.
• Air Quality: Excellent. AQI of 44 and PM2.5 of 7.0 µg/m³ (well below the WHO limit of 10.0 µg/m³).
• Schools: Educational attainment is 31.5%, suggesting K-12 public schools may lag in funding compared to wealthier suburbs.
• Weather: Current conditions show 57.0°F with patchy fog. High Point experiences four distinct seasons, with hot summers and mild winters.

6. The Verdict

Pros:

• Housing Value: You get 41.1% more housing for your dollar compared to the US median.
• Air Quality: AQI of 44 is a significant health asset.
• Remote Work Arbitrage: Living here on a national salary creates a financial advantage.

Cons:

• Income Ceiling: Local median income is $57,436, which is $17,144 below the national average.
• Health Risks: Obesity (37.7%) and Diabetes (13.0%) rates are statistically high.
• Crime: Property crime is 22.9% higher than the US average.

Final Recommendation:
High Point is a Buy for remote workers and a Rent for local hires. If your income is derived locally, the $57,436 median limits your ability to leverage the low cost of living. However, if you earn a national salary, the $1,330 rent or $245,000 home price allows for aggressive savings rates that are impossible in major metros.

7. FAQs

1. What salary do I need to live comfortably in High Point?
For a single person, a salary of $55,000 provides a comfortable buffer after the $2,725 monthly budget. For a family, a household income of $95,000+ is recommended to maintain savings rates.

2. How does the value compare to other cities?
High Point offers 29.5% cheaper housing per square foot than the national average. It is significantly more affordable than Charlotte ($320/sqft) or Raleigh ($310/sqft), though with lower local earning potential.

3. Is High Point safe?
Safety is mixed. Violent crime is 10.3% above the national average. However, the data suggests this is often property-related rather than random. Neighborhood selection is critical.

4. When is the best time to move?
The current weather (57°F) is ideal for moving. Avoid July and August, when temperatures frequently exceed 90°F with high humidity, which exacerbates the local pollen count.