Clay Public RecordsNorth Carolina

As of 2023, Clay County, NC has an estimated population of about 11,400. The median age is 52, indicating an older demographic. Gender distribution is nearly balanced, with approximately 49% male and 51% female. The racial and ethnic composition is predominantly White (over 93%), with small percentages of Black or African American (0.9%), Native American (0.8%), Asian (0.3%), and Hispanic or Latino residents (3.7%).

Clay County, NC, had 8,492 registered voters as of November 2022. Elections include federal, state, and local offices, plus referenda. In the 2020 presidential race, 80% voted Republican, 19% Democrat. Polling locations include the Hayesville Board of Elections Office and precinct sites. Key issues are economic development and broadband access. The Board of Elections administers voting, ensuring compliance with state laws. Major parties are Republican (majority) and Democrat (minority), with 1,413 unaffiliated voters. Voter turnout often exceeds 70%.

Clay County, NC, boasts a homeownership rate of around 77%, with median home values at $280,000 as of 2023, reflecting a slight annual increase. Typical housing includes single-family homes and cabins, especially in Hayesville, the county seat. Rental options are limited, with median rents near $900/month. Most neighborhoods are rural or semi-rural, offering spacious lots and mountain views. Property taxes average 0.56% of assessed value, translating to about $1,570 annually on a median-priced home. The market remains stable, driven by retirees and second-home buyers seeking natural beauty and affordability.

As of 2022, Clay County, NC, had an employment rate of approximately 52.3%. The leading industries are Health Care & Social Assistance (18.7%), Retail Trade (14.6%), and Accommodation & Food Services (12.2%). Most workers are employed in Office & Administrative Support (12.5%) and Sales (10.4%) occupations. About 65% of residents commute outside the county for work, with an average commute time of 30.2 minutes. Hayesville is the primary employment center within the county, though significant numbers travel to nearby Cherokee and Macon counties for employment.

Clay County, NC, has one public high school—Hayesville High School—serving approximately 400 students, with a graduation rate of around 90%. About 16% of adults in the county hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. The county has three public schools in total, with an average school rating score of 6/10. School safety is considered above average, with minimal incidents reported. The schools offer vocational programs, AP courses, and dual-enrollment options. Adult education resources are available through Tri-County Community College, supporting continuing education and GED completion for residents.

Clay County, NC maintains a relatively low crime rate compared to national averages. According to recent statistics, the county’s overall crime rate is about 10.6 per 1,000 residents annually, with violent crime making up only 1.5 per 1,000. Property crimes, including burglary and theft, are the most commonly reported incidents. Law enforcement actively encourages community reporting, contributing to transparent data collection. In 2023, fewer than 30 violent crimes and around 200 property crimes were reported, reflecting the county’s emphasis on safety and prevention.