Cleveland Public RecordsNorth Carolina

As of 2022, Cleveland County, NC, has a population of approximately 99,600. The gender distribution is about 52% female and 48% male. The median age is roughly 42 years. Racially, the county is 74% White, 20% Black or African American, 1% Asian, and 3% identifying as two or more races; about 4% are Hispanic or Latino (of any race). This reflects modest diversity and an aging population profile.

Cleveland County, NC, has around 65,000 registered voters as of 2024, with registration nearly split between Democrats (40%), Republicans (41%), and Unaffiliated (19%). Elections include federal, state, local, and municipal contests, with voter turnout in the 2020 general election at 69%. The County Board of Elections administers elections at over 25 precincts, such as Shelby and Kings Mountain. Key issues include education funding and economic growth. The Board ensures secure voting procedures and transparent results, with the 2022 county commissioner race favoring Republicans by a 55-45 margin. Major political parties are the Democratic and Republican parties.

Cleveland County, NC has a homeownership rate around 68%, with median home values near $165,000 as of 2023, up about 7% year-over-year. Typical monthly rents average $950–$1,100. Housing predominantly comprises single-family homes, with some townhomes and apartments. Popular neighborhoods include Moss Lake and Shelby, the county seat. Property taxes are approximately $0.75 per $100 of assessed value, lower than the state average. The market trend shows steady appreciation and moderate demand, attracting both buyers and renters seeking affordability within a mix of suburban and rural environments.

As of 2023, Cleveland County, NC, had an employment rate of approximately 56.7%. Major industries include manufacturing (22%), health care and social assistance (18%), and retail trade (11%). Common occupations are production (15%), office/administrative support (13%), and sales (9%). The average commute time is 25.6 minutes, with 83% of workers driving alone to jobs, primarily in Shelby (the county seat), Gaston County, and Mecklenburg County. Around 11% of residents carpool, while less than 1% use public transportation for commuting.

Cleveland County, NC, has 29 public schools, including 4 high schools. The graduation rate is approximately 84%, with 15% of adults holding a bachelor’s degree or higher. Schools like Crest High and Shelby High score around average on state assessments. Adult education is supported by Cleveland Community College. Cleveland County Schools prioritize safety with resource officers in all high schools and invest in vocational and STEM programs. Despite challenges, consistent improvement efforts are evident in educational offerings and student support.

Cleveland County, NC, reported a crime rate of 2,637 incidents per 100,000 residents in 2022, higher than the state average of 2,148. Property crimes made up 76% of reports, with 1,800 burglaries and 500 motor vehicle thefts. Violent crime rate was 444 per 100,000, including 6 homicides and 178 aggravated assaults. The county’s overall crime trend has decreased by 5% since 2020, credited to improved law enforcement collaboration. Residents are encouraged to report incidents to the Cleveland County Sheriff’s Office, which received over 10,000 calls in 2022.