Roanoke Rapids City Demographics

Roanoke Rapids, located in Halifax County, NC, has a 2020 population of about 15,000. The median age is around 40 years. Gender distribution is nearly even, with approximately 52% female and 48% male. Racially, the city is 49% White, 44% Black or African American, 3% Hispanic or Latino, 1% Asian, and 3% other/multiracial. This demographically diverse city reflects the broader population trends of eastern North Carolina.

Roanoke Rapids City Housing

Roanoke Rapids, Halifax County, NC, features a median home value of about $92,000, with roughly 51% owner-occupied homes and 49% rentals; average rent hovers near $750/month. Predominant housing types include single-family homes and some apartments. Neighborhoods like Becker Drive and West Roanoke offer family-friendly environments. Property values have seen a mild annual increase of 2–3% in recent years. Property tax rates are around 1.1%, equating to approximately $1,000 annually on a median-valued home. The city offers affordable living compared to state and national averages, attracting both first-time buyers and renters.

Education in Roanoke Rapids City

Roanoke Rapids, Halifax County, NC, has a public school system serving over 2,800 students across 6 schools, including Roanoke Rapids High School. The high school graduation rate is around 84%, while only about 13% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. School safety ratings are average, with reported incidents below state averages. The district offers Career & Technical Education and Advanced Placement programs. Adult education is available via Halifax Community College. However, Niche gives the school district a "C+" score, reflecting room for academic improvement.

Transportation in Roanoke Rapids City

Roanoke Rapids, Halifax County, NC, relies heavily on personal vehicles, with an estimated 93% of commuters driving alone and less than 1% using public transit. The city's average commute time is about 21 minutes, below the national average. Vehicle ownership is high—over 90% of households own at least one car. Public transportation options are limited, though the Choanoke Public Transportation Authority provides regional services. U.S. Highway 158 and Interstate 95 are key routes, supporting travel to major employers such as the Halifax Regional Medical Center and the J.P. Stevens textile mill area.

Roanoke Rapids City Healthcare

Roanoke Rapids, located in Halifax County, NC, is primarily served by ECU Health North Hospital, offering 204 beds and emergency services, alongside several clinics and primary care practices. As of 2023, Halifax County had an uninsured rate of approximately 15% (higher than the state average), with 57% of adults reporting at least one chronic disease. The area faces high rates of hypertension, diabetes, and heart disease, reflecting its largely older, African American population. Healthcare access remains limited, with a provider-to-resident ratio of 1:2,300, well below national averages, affecting timely and comprehensive care.

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