Mooresville, NC vs. Gastonia, NC: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
This article provides a cost of living comparison: Mooresville vs Gastonia. It is perfect for families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real-life cost of Mooresville vs Gastonia in 2025.
Housing Costs
Housing is often the biggest factor in cost of living differences. Here’s how typical rent and home prices compare in Mooresville and Gastonia:
| Housing Type | Mooresville | Gastonia |
|---|---|---|
| 2BR Apartment Rent | $1,450 | $1,100 |
| 3BR Home Price | $450,000 | $325,000 |
🏆 Winner: Gastonia. Housing costs are significantly lower in Gastonia, with apartments renting for about $350 less per month and homes costing over $100,000 less to purchase compared to Mooresville.
Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility bills are another important monthly expense. In Mooresville, expect to pay around $180 per month for electricity, water, and gas for a 2BR apartment. Costs are similar in Gastonia, averaging $175 monthly.
Both cities experience hot summers and mild winters. Air conditioning usage peaks in July and August. Gastonia offers an off-peak electricity plan that can help reduce summer bills.
🏆 Winner: Gastonia, but only by a slight margin. Utility costs are comparable between the two cities.
Groceries and Daily Expenses
Groceries, dining out, and everyday purchases are key components of a monthly budget. Expect to spend around $400 per month on groceries for a couple in Mooresville. Prices are about 5% lower in Gastonia, where the same items average $380.
A meal at a mid-range restaurant costs $18 in Mooresville vs $16 in Gastonia. However, Mooresville has a wider variety of dining options, especially for farm-to-table and organic fare.
🏆 Winner: Gastonia. Groceries and dining out are more affordable, but Mooresville offers more upscale options.
Taxes and Fees
Mooresville’s property tax rate is 0.52%, while Gastonia’s is 0.87%. For a $350,000 home, annual property taxes would be $1,820 in Mooresville and $3,045 in Gastonia.
Both cities charge a vehicle property tax and various service fees. Mooresville has slightly lower vehicle taxes but higher solid waste and stormwater fees. HOA fees in Mooresville typically include landscaping and trash service.
🏆 Winner: Mooresville. Lower property tax rates make a big difference, especially for higher-value homes.
Cost Summary
| Expense | Mooresville | Gastonia |
|---|---|---|
| Housing (3BR Home) | $2,500 | $1,800 |
| Utilities | $180 | $175 |
| Groceries | $400 | $380 |
| Transportation | $300 | $250 |
| Taxes & Fees | $450 | $600 |
| Miscellaneous | $500 | $450 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $4,330 | $3,655 |
These estimates are based on a gross monthly income (pre-tax) and represent typical expenses for a professional couple or small family. Your actual cost of living will depend on your unique needs and lifestyle.
Lifestyle Fit
Mooresville offers more space, newer construction, and a quaint downtown area. It’s great for families who value excellent schools and outdoor recreation on Lake Norman. Traffic and noise are low, but expect a 35-minute drive to Charlotte.
Gastonia provides an easier commute to Charlotte, just 25 minutes away. It’s more walkable and has better public transit. Summers are about 2°F warmer in Gastonia than Mooresville. Gastonia is a better fit for young professionals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Mooresville more affordable than Gastonia?
Gastonia has a lower overall cost of living, primarily due to more affordable housing. However, Mooresville is less expensive in a few categories like property taxes.
Which city has lower rent?
Rent prices are significantly lower in Gastonia. A typical 2BR apartment costs $1,100 per month in Gastonia compared to $1,450 in Mooresville.
Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
Gastonia offers lower home prices. The median price of a 3BR house is around $325,000 in Gastonia versus $450,000 in Mooresville.
Conclusion
Gastonia comes out ahead in this cost of living comparison, with lower expenses for housing, groceries, and transportation. However, Mooresville has an edge in property taxes and offers a more family-friendly suburban lifestyle.
Young professionals and those who value an easy commute to Charlotte may prefer Gastonia. Families looking for top-rated schools and lakeside living are a great fit for Mooresville. Of course, your individual budget and preferences are the most important factors.
Considering other cities in North Carolina? Our Mooresville monthly budget guide can help you estimate your expenses and decide if Mooresville fits your lifestyle.