Cherokee City Demographics

Cherokee city, located in Swain County, NC, has a population of around 2,200. The population is predominantly Native American (about 80%), with White residents comprising about 16%, and other races making up the remainder. The median age is approximately 37 years. Gender distribution is fairly balanced, with females making up about 51% and males 49%. Hispanics or Latinos account for around 2% of the population. (Source: U.S. Census Bureau 2020 data)

Cherokee City Housing

Cherokee, located in Swain County, NC, features a homeownership rate around 45%, with median home values near $160,000, below the national average. Median rent is approximately $800 per month. The housing market trends stable, with modest annual appreciation of about 2-3%. Housing types include single-family homes, cabins, and some apartments, with neighborhoods ranging from rural to small-town settings close to natural attractions. Property taxes are relatively low, averaging 0.69% of assessed value. The area's proximity to natural parks and the tourism economy influences both values and rental demand.

Education in Cherokee City

Cherokee, located in Swain County, NC, is served by Cherokee Central Schools, which includes an elementary, middle, and high school—totaling three main schools on one campus. The high school graduation rate is approximately 88%, while around 12% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. School safety measures include on-site resource officers and secure entrances. Academic programs feature Cherokee language courses and cultural education. The district’s overall school performance score is around 63 (out of 100), according to state education data. Adult education is available through local community college partnerships.

Transportation in Cherokee City

Transportation in Cherokee city, Swain County, NC, is largely car-dependent, with over 90% of workers commuting by private vehicle and less than 1% using public transit, reflecting limited bus services. Average commute times are relatively short, about 17 minutes. Vehicle ownership is high, with most households having two or more vehicles. Major transportation infrastructure includes US Highway 441 and US Highway 19, connecting to nearby employment hubs such as Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Walking and biking rates are low due to the rural layout and limited dedicated infrastructure.

Cherokee City Healthcare

Cherokee, in Swain County, NC, is primarily served by the Cherokee Indian Hospital, offering inpatient, outpatient, and emergency care for the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians and area residents. As of 2023, the hospital served roughly 18,000 patients annually. Primary care clinics like Cherokee Family Care supplement services. Around 20% of Swain County residents lack health insurance. The patient population is 56% Native American, 37% White. Common health issues include diabetes (prevalence ≈15%), heart disease, and substance use disorders. Healthcare provider-to-patient ratios are lower than state averages, with about 2 physicians per 1,000 residents.

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