Oakwood, Hickory,NC

Thinking about relocating to Hickory, NC? Oakwood is a charming neighborhood in the southeast part of the city that offers a perfect blend of suburban comfort and local charm. This area is known for its friendly community vibe, tree-lined streets, and well-maintained homes, making it an appealing spot for families, professionals, and retirees alike. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful place to settle down or a neighborhood with easy access to city amenities, Oakwood provides a welcoming atmosphere that feels like home from the moment you arrive.

One of the standout features of Oakwood is its proximity to some of Hickory’s best attractions. Residents enjoy easy access to the Hickory Community Theatre, which offers a variety of performances and cultural events throughout the year. For those who love the outdoors, the nearby Oakwood Park is a fantastic spot for picnics, jogging, and weekend relaxation. Plus, the neighborhood boasts several local eateries and shops that add to its small-town charm, making it convenient to run errands or grab a bite without venturing far. The community also hosts seasonal events that bring neighbors together and foster a strong sense of belonging.

When it comes to commuting or exploring downtown Hickory, Oakwood’s location is quite convenient. Situated just northwest of downtown, the neighborhood is only a short drive away—typically under 10 minutes—making it easy to enjoy the vibrant downtown scene filled with art galleries, unique boutiques, and a variety of dining options. This close proximity means residents can easily take advantage of the city’s amenities while still enjoying the tranquility of a quieter neighborhood. For those moving to Hickory, Oakwood offers the best of both worlds: a peaceful residential setting with quick access to everything the city has to offer.

In Oakwood, 24% of residents aged 16 and older are married, which is notably higher than the national average. This could point to a more settled, community-driven neighborhood where long-term residents and homeowners are common. It’s the kind of place where stability, and a close-knit atmosphere make it especially appealing to families and couples looking to put down roots.

With only 24% of people over 16 having children, you can expect an easygoing environment that tends to attract residents seeking a quieter lifestyle. The atmosphere here leans more toward adult-oriented living. Without the constant rhythm of school schedules or kid-centered events, the community maintains a slower, more relaxed pace. This makes it especially appealing to singles, couples, and empty nesters who appreciate tranquil streets, and recreation on their own terms.

Oakwood demographics offer valuable insights into the character and lifestyle of the neighborhood, helping you understand who lives there and what daily life might feel like. Home to only about 809 residents, Oakwood is notably smaller than many other Hickory neighborhoods, creating a more peaceful and community-oriented atmosphere. Its lower population can translate to quieter streets, a more relaxed pace of life, and easier access to local amenities — all without sacrificing the vibrant urban lifestyle the city is known for.

With a lower than average population density of 1,571 people per square mile, Oakwood offers a more open and spacious environment compared to many other Hickory neighborhoods. This often means quieter streets, less congestion, and a relaxed atmosphere — all while still providing access to the amenities and conveniences of city living.

With an average age of 41, you're likely to find a well-balanced community where multiple generations live side by side. This mix of age groups contributes to a neighborhood atmosphere that’s both active and welcoming, offering a blend of fresh perspectives and long-standing community values.

The Oakwood crime map provides an in-depth look at crime rates throughout the community, using block group data to reveal both safer pockets and places with more frequent incidents. By visualizing these patterns, the crime map helps residents and newcomers alike better understand the dynamics of neighborhood safety. It’s worth noting that higher-crime areas on the map aren’t always indicative of danger — spots near busy commercial centers, transportation hubs, or popular attractions may naturally show more reports due to increased activity.

Housing prices can reveal a lot about the balance and overall appeal of a neighborhood. In Oakwood, the median home price is about $246,825, which is on par with many comparable areas. This average pricing reflects a stable, affordable housing market and makes the neighborhood an appealing choice for a wide range of buyers seeking both value and long-term potential. Examining how home prices and appreciation rates in Oakwood have shifted over time can reveal important clues about the neighborhood’s future value. These trends help potential buyers and investors understand market momentum and determine whether the area is likely to deliver strong returns over the long term.

The median rent is around $831, which is on par with many comparable neighborhoods. This balanced pricing offers a mix of affordability and value, making it a practical choice for a wide range of renters.

School quality plays an important role in shaping the overall appeal of a neighborhood like Oakwood. Ratings based on student achievement, graduation rates, and standardized tests — supported by national benchmarks like the NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) — help paint a clearer picture of how local schools perform. Additionally, understanding the education levels of residents in Oakwood offers valuable context about the community’s emphasis on learning and opportunity, helping families make confident decisions about where to settle and invest in their children’s future.