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Wake Forest, Winston-Salem,NC

Neighborhood Data
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Wake Forest in Winston-Salem, NC, is a charming neighborhood that offers a blend of suburban comfort and urban convenience. Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, it’s a fantastic choice for those relocating to the area who want a welcoming community with plenty of green spaces and local amenities. Residents here enjoy access to well-maintained parks, walking trails, and community events that foster a strong neighborhood spirit. Whether you’re looking for a morning jog or a weekend picnic, Wake Forest’s inviting outdoor spaces make it easy to enjoy the fresh air and stay active.

One of the standout features of Wake Forest is its local shopping and dining options, which provide a unique small-town vibe right within a bustling city. The neighborhood hosts several quaint cafes, restaurants, and specialty shops where you can find everything from homemade treats to handcrafted goods. For families, there are excellent schools nearby, as well as recreational centers that offer programs for kids and adults alike. Plus, the area’s safety and friendly neighbors make it a comfortable place for anyone moving to Winston-Salem to settle down and build connections.

Conveniently situated in the southeast part of Winston-Salem, Wake Forest is just a short drive from Downtown, making it easy for residents to enjoy the city’s cultural attractions, entertainment, and employment opportunities. Whether you want to catch a live show, explore art galleries, or dine at some of the city’s best restaurants, you’re never far from the action. This proximity to Downtown combined with the neighborhood’s peaceful environment creates a perfect balance for those who want the best of both worlds—urban excitement and suburban tranquility.

Community Snapshot

Population 1,948
Density (People/sqml.) 1,813
Median Age 34.7
Married Couples
26%
26% of the population of Wake Forest aged 16 years and older are married.
Have Kids
13%
13% of the population aged 16 years or older have children.

About 26% of the Wake Forest population aged 16 and older are married, which is notably lower than average. This could suggest a community with a younger, more transient population—perhaps made up of students, professionals, or renters. It may also reflect a neighborhood that attracts singles or couples without children, contributing to a more independent, urban lifestyle.

With only 13% 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.

Age Breakdown

Wake Forest neighborhood age breakdown chart

Wake Forest 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 1,948 residents, Wake Forest is notably smaller than many other Winston-Salem 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 1,813 people per square mile, Wake Forest offers a more open and spacious environment compared to many other Winston-Salem 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 35, 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.

Crime in Wake Forest

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Total Crime Incidents
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Types of Crime

Wake Forest neighborhood age breakdown chart

Wake Forest Crime Map

The Wake Forest crime map uses detailed block group boundaries from address-based crime data to visualize crime patterns across the neighborhood, highlighting both low-crime zones and areas with higher levels of reported crime. This crime heat map helps paint a clearer picture of local safety trends, showing how crime can vary from one part of the community to another. Keep in mind that areas with higher activity on the map don’t always equate to dangerous conditions — locations near entertainment districts, major roads, or tourist destinations often see more reports simply due to the larger number of people passing through.

Housing

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Home Price $371,120
Median Rent $1,097
People/Household 1.9

Home Price Breakdown

Wake Forest neighborhood home price breakdown chart

Rent vs Own

Rent 67% Own 33%

Year Moved In

Before 2010 73% After 2010 27%

Types of Homes in the Area

Market Trends

Year-over-Year YoY data

 

Housing prices can reveal a lot about the balance and overall appeal of a neighborhood. In Wake Forest, the median home price is about $371,120, 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 Wake Forest 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 $1,097, 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.

Walkability & Lifestyle

Coffee Shops

Dough-Joe's Coffee & Doughnuts
Coffee Shop
min.
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Starbucks
Coffee Shop
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Entertainment

Museum of Anthropology
Museum
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Kentner Stadium
Stadium
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Food & Drink

Fast Food
Fast Food
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Subway
Fast Food
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Groceries

Dewey's Bakery
Bakery
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Lowes Foods
Grocery Store
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Parks

Groves Stadium
Park
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Polo Park and Recreation Center
Park
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Shops

Sundry
Convenience Store
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Campus Clothing Store
Gift Shop
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Getting Around

Transit Stops

Bus Stop
Bus Stop
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Health & Safety

Medical Facilities

CVS Pharmacy
Pharmacy
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CVS Pharmacy
Pharmacy
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Health Care

Winston Salem Family Dental Care
Dentist
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Robinhood Integrative Health
Doctor
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Safety

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Top Neighborhood Schools

Name Category Grades Rating
St Leo School
333 Springdale Ave, Winston Salem, NC
Elementary School PK - 8 School Score
North Hills Elementary
340 Alspaugh Drive, Winston-Salem, NC
Elementary School PK - 5 School Score
R J Reynolds High
301 N Hawthorne Road, Winston Salem, NC
High School 9 - 12 School Score
Childrens Center
2315 Coliseum Drive, Winston Salem, NC
Elementary School PK - 5 School Score
Speas Elementary
2000 W Polo Road, Winston Salem, NC
Elementary School PK - 5 School Score
Mount Tabor High School
342 Petree Road, Winston Salem, NC
High School 9 - 12 School Score
Whitaker Elementary
2600 Buena Vista Road, Winston Salem, NC
Elementary School PK - 5 School Score

Education Level Achieved

Education is a key factor in understanding the character and opportunities within a community like Wake Forest. School ratings here reflect important indicators such as academic performance, graduation outcomes, and standardized testing, while NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) scores offer a valuable national comparison to gauge how local schools measure up. Looking at the overall education level of residents in Wake Forest can also provide meaningful insight into the neighborhood’s focus on learning and long-term growth, helping families choose a community that aligns with their educational goals.

Economy

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Income Per Capita $34,052
Household Income $58,726
Unemployment 2.7%

Income Breakdown

Wake Forest Income breakdown chart

Employment by Industry

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Local economic factors play a key role in shaping the character and accessibility of a neighborhood, influencing everything from lifestyle to opportunity. Household incomes in Wake Forest average around $58,726, which is lower than average. This affordability contributes to a more accessible lifestyle, making it an appealing choice for first-time homeowners, young families, and those looking to enjoy the benefits of the area without a high price tag.

The strength of a neighborhood’s local economy is often reflected in its employment landscape, shaping daily life and long-term stability for residents. In Wake Forest, the unemployment rate is just 3%, indicating a strong and resilient community with steady economic growth, active local businesses, and a high quality of life.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the overall lifestyle like?

Wake Forest in Winston-Salem offers a balanced suburban lifestyle with a mix of family-friendly activities and access to urban amenities. Residents enjoy a peaceful environment with plenty of green spaces such as Wake Forest University’s campus nearby, along with local parks like Tanglewood Park just a short drive away. The neighborhood supports an active outdoor lifestyle while maintaining a close-knit community feel.

Are there major highways or transit lines nearby?

Yes, Wake Forest is conveniently located near major highways such as Interstate 40 and Business 40, providing easy access to downtown Winston-Salem and surrounding areas. Public transit options include the Winston-Salem Transit Authority’s bus routes, which connect Wake Forest with the city center and other neighborhoods, making commuting relatively straightforward for residents without cars.

What types of homes are common?

The neighborhood features a variety of housing styles, predominantly single-family homes built from the mid-20th century to present. You'll find charming ranch-style houses, traditional Cape Cods, and some newer developments with modern designs. Many homes have spacious yards, reflecting the suburban character of the area. The mix of older and newer homes offers options for different preferences and budgets.

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