Rocky Mount City Demographics

Rocky Mount city in Edgecombe County, NC, has a population of about 53,957 (2022 estimate). The median age is 39.8 years. Females make up 53% and males 47% of the population. Racially, the city is 63% Black or African American, 31% White, 2% Hispanic or Latino, and 1% Asian, with other groups comprising the remainder. The city’s diverse demographic profile reflects its rich cultural heritage.

Rocky Mount City Housing

Rocky Mount, located in Edgecombe County, NC, has a homeownership rate of around 52%, with median home values near $140,000 as of 2024. The median rent is approximately $950 per month. Housing types include single-family homes, townhouses, and some apartments, with historic neighborhoods like West Haven and Edgemont. Home values have seen a year-over-year increase of about 4%. Property tax rates in Edgecombe County average 1.15%, making homeownership relatively affordable. The city offers a mix of established communities and newer developments, supporting diverse housing needs for residents.

Education in Rocky Mount City

Rocky Mount, Edgecombe County, NC, offers 20+ public schools, including Rocky Mount High School (serving ~1,200 students; graduation rate: 85%). About 16% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Schools average a 4/10 GreatSchools rating. Nash Community College and Edgecombe Community College provide adult and technical education. Safety initiatives include resource officers in schools. Programs include STEM, early college, and career/technical education.

Transportation in Rocky Mount City

Rocky Mount, Edgecombe County, NC, relies heavily on personal vehicles, with about 87% of workers commuting by car and only around 0.3% using public transit (U.S. Census, 2022 ACS). The average one-way commute is roughly 22.5 minutes, shorter than the national average. Public bus service is provided by Tar River Transit, but ridership remains limited. Most households (over 92%) own at least one vehicle. Major employment hubs include healthcare, manufacturing, and distribution centers, with major highways like I-95 and US-64 supporting regional connectivity.

Rocky Mount City Healthcare

Rocky Mount, Edgecombe County, NC, is primarily served by UNC Nash General Hospital (282 beds) and several clinics, including OIC Family Medical Center. In Edgecombe County, 16% of residents under 65 are uninsured. About 65% of the population is Black or African American, and 29% live below the poverty line. Common health concerns include diabetes (14% prevalence), hypertension (43%), and heart disease. Local healthcare access is challenged by provider shortages, with roughly 1 primary care physician per 2,000 residents, compared to the U.S. average of 1:1,200.

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