Clayton City Demographics

Clayton, in Johnston County, NC, has an estimated 2023 population of around 30,000. The median age is about 36 years. Gender distribution is roughly even: 51% female and 49% male. Racial and ethnic composition is approximately 60% White, 23% Black or African American, 2% Asian, and 11% Hispanic or Latino. The city has seen steady growth due to its proximity to Raleigh and its appeal to families and young professionals.

Clayton City Housing

Clayton, in Johnston County, NC, offers a median home value around $335,000 (2024), with homeownership rates at 70% and median rents near $1,600/month. The housing market has seen 6% annual price growth, driven by new subdivisions and family-friendly neighborhoods like Flowers Plantation and Riverwood. Housing types range from single-family homes to modern townhouses. Property tax rates average 0.87%, lower than the national average, making Clayton attractive for buyers. Rental demand remains strong, bolstered by local job growth and proximity to Raleigh.

Education in Clayton City

Clayton, a city in Johnston County, NC, features 7 public schools, including Clayton High School, with a graduation rate of 91%. The average school rating is 6/10 according to GreatSchools. About 30% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. The town consistently invests in school safety measures, implementing controlled access and resource officers. Clayton offers diverse educational programs, including STEM and Advanced Placement. Johnston Community College in nearby Smithfield supports adult education. Overall, Clayton's educational environment is strong and steadily improving.

Transportation in Clayton City

Clayton, Johnston County, NC, relies heavily on personal vehicles, with over 90% of commuters driving to work and less than 1% using public transit. The average one-way commute time is approximately 30 minutes, slightly above the national average. Limited public transportation is available, mainly via JCATS, serving Johnston County. Most households own two or more vehicles. Transportation infrastructure includes US-70 Business and NC-42, connecting residents to major employment hubs in Raleigh and Research Triangle Park, about 20 miles away, with many residents commuting outside Clayton for work.

Clayton City Healthcare

Clayton, in Johnston County, NC, is served by Johnston UNC Health Care's Clayton hospital and several clinics, such as FastMed Urgent Care and local primary care providers. With Johnston County’s population nearing 250,000, ~10,000 reside in Clayton. Approximately 89% of residents have health insurance. The median age is 35, with common health issues including hypertension, diabetes (prevalence ~12%), and obesity (adult rate ~33%). Healthcare access is considered good, with most residents living within 10 miles of a provider. Minorities make up about 40% of the population, influencing service demand and outreach.

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