Cherokee Public RecordsNorth Carolina

As of the 2020 Census, Cherokee County, NC, had a population of 28,774. The median age is about 50 years, reflecting an older population. Approximately 49% are male and 51% female. The racial makeup is predominantly White (93%), with smaller proportions of Native American (2.4%), Black or African American (1.2%), Asian (0.4%), and those identifying as two or more races (2.8%). Hispanic or Latino residents make up about 2.6% of the total population.

Cherokee County, NC, has about 20,000 registered voters, with registrations split mainly between Republicans (55%), Democrats (22%), and unaffiliated voters (~23%). Voters participate in primaries, general, and municipal elections, with the 2020 presidential turnout around 70%. Polling locations include 11 precincts, such as Andrews, Murphy, and Hothouse. The Cherokee County Board of Elections administers elections, ensuring procedures and early voting. Major voting issues in recent cycles have included local economic development and opioid response. Republicans have largely dominated recent results for county, state, and national offices.

Cherokee County, NC, offers a median home value of around $220,000 (2024), with homeownership rates near 77% and median rent about $850/month. The market has seen steady appreciation, with prices up 6% year-over-year. Housing types range from mountain cabins and single-family homes to small apartment complexes, particularly in Murphy and Andrews neighborhoods. Property taxes are low, averaging 0.53% of assessed value. The area attracts retirees and families seeking rural, affordable living with scenic views, making it a desirable spot in western North Carolina.

Cherokee County, NC, had an unemployment rate of approximately 3.7% as of early 2024. The largest employment sectors include health care and social assistance (18%), retail trade (15%), and manufacturing (12%). Most occupations are in management, office support, and service roles. About 83% of workers commute by car, with an average commute time of 24 minutes. Nearly 44% work within the county, while the rest commute primarily to surrounding areas such as Clay County and Georgia, reflecting the region’s rural and cross-border employment dynamics.

Cherokee County, NC, operates 12 public schools, including 2 high schools. The county’s high school graduation rate is approximately 89%, with 17% of adults holding a bachelor’s degree or higher. Cherokee County Schools score an average of 7/10 on GreatSchools ratings. School safety initiatives include resource officers in all schools and anti-bullying programs. Educational offerings feature Advanced Placement (AP), vocational, and dual enrollment courses. Adult education is available through Tri-County Community College, serving over 1,000 learners annually.

Cherokee County, NC, has a crime rate below the national average, with a reported overall crime rate of 15.9 per 1,000 residents in 2023. Violent crime accounts for approximately 2.5 per 1,000, while property crime stands at 13.4 per 1,000. The Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office regularly publishes crime reports and encourages community vigilance and prompt reporting of suspicious activity. Despite its rural setting, the area experiences occasional drug-related offenses, but proactive policing and watch programs help maintain a strong sense of public safety.