Catawba Public RecordsNorth Carolina

Catawba, a small city in Catawba County, NC, had a population of approximately 602 in the 2020 Census. The median age is about 43 years. Gender distribution is fairly even, with around 51% male and 49% female residents. Racially, the city is roughly 88% White, 7% Black or African American, 2% two or more races, and 3% Hispanic or Latino. The community remains predominantly non-Hispanic and has seen stable demographic trends in recent years.

Catawba, NC, offers a mix of homeownership (about 78%) and rentals (22%), with a median home value around $220,000 (2023). Property values have increased roughly 8% year-over-year. Housing types include single-family homes, mobile homes, and some townhomes. Neighborhoods vary from historic downtown to newer developments near Lake Norman. Median rent is approximately $1,100/month. Property tax rates in Catawba County are about $0.575 per $100 assessed value, making taxes relatively affordable. The market remains competitive yet accessible for first-time buyers.

Catawba, NC, part of Catawba County, is served by Catawba County Schools, including Catawba Elementary and Bunker Hill High School. Public schools in the area have an average GreatSchools rating of 6/10. Around 89% of adults hold a high school diploma, while approximately 15% possess a bachelor’s degree or higher. Educational programs focus on STEM and vocational training, with safety protocols and a low incident rate (<1 per 100 students annually). The area has two main public schools and several nearby adult education centers, offering continuous learning opportunities for residents.

Transportation in Catawba, NC is predominantly car-dependent, with over 90% of commuters driving alone and fewer than 1% utilizing public transit. The average commute time is approximately 26 minutes, consistent with county averages. Most households own two or more vehicles, with a vehicle ownership rate exceeding 95%. Public transportation options are limited, and major highways such as US-70 and NC-10 serve the area. Major employment hubs are located in nearby Hickory and Newton, driving outbound commuting patterns. Local roads and minimal transit infrastructure reflect the town’s small size and rural character.

Catawba, NC, is served by nearby hospitals such as Catawba Valley Medical Center (258 beds) and Frye Regional Medical Center (355 beds), both in Hickory. The city hosts limited primary care clinics and relies on regional providers for specialty care. Approximately 90% of residents have health insurance, slightly above North Carolina’s average; Medicare and Medicaid are significant payers. The area’s population is predominantly White (78%), with an aging demographic—18% over 65. Common health issues include hypertension, diabetes, and obesity, mirroring regional trends. Healthcare access challenges persist for low-income and rural residents due to transportation and provider shortages.