Columbus Public RecordsNorth Carolina

As of the 2020 Census, Columbus County, NC had a population of 50,623. The median age is approximately 43 years. The gender distribution is about 51% female and 49% male. Racially, the county is 60% White, 31% Black or African American, 5% Native American, and around 4% Hispanic or Latino of any race. The population under 18 is about 21%, while residents aged 65 and over comprise about 21%.

Columbus County, NC, had about 36,500 registered voters in 2024, with 51% Democrat, 30% Republican, and 19% unaffiliated. Elections include local, state, and federal contests, with the county favoring Republicans in recent cycles; for example, the 2020 presidential vote went 59% for Trump, 40% for Biden. Key issues are economic development and education funding. There are over 20 polling locations managed by the Columbus County Board of Elections. Administration ensures ADA compliance and early voting, with a focus on fair access. Both major parties are active, influencing turnout and local governance.

Columbus County, NC has a homeownership rate of about 67%, with median home values around $130,000 (2023). Median rent is approximately $750 per month. The housing market has seen moderate appreciation, with values increasing by about 7% year-over-year. Housing types include single-family homes, mobile homes, and some apartments, with neighborhoods like Whiteville and Tabor City being the most notable. Property tax rates average 0.97%, making homeownership relatively affordable. Rental options are somewhat limited compared to ownership. Overall, the market offers affordable choices in a mostly rural setting.

As of 2023, Columbus County, NC, had an employment rate of approximately 51.2%. The top industries include health care and social assistance (18%), retail trade (13%), and manufacturing (12%). The leading occupations are in office and administrative support (15%), sales (11%), and production (10%). Around 81% of workers commute by car, with an average travel time of 28 minutes; nearly 56% work outside the county, mainly commuting to Brunswick and New Hanover counties. The civilian labor force totals about 20,000 individuals.

Columbus County, NC, serves over 8,500 students across 18 public schools, including 3 high schools. About 83% of adults hold a high school diploma, while roughly 12% have a bachelor’s degree or higher. School performance scores average 51 (C range, per NCDPI 2022-23). The county offers vocational, STEM, and dual enrollment programs for students. School safety initiatives include resource officers and secured campus access. The district also provides adult education and GED programs through Southeastern Community College.

Columbus County, NC, has higher crime rates than the state average, with a violent crime rate of 7.7 per 1,000 residents compared to North Carolina's 4.3. Property crime is also elevated at 27.5 per 1,000, exceeding the state average of 20.1. Law enforcement agencies actively report incidents to the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation; in 2022, over 500 violent crimes and 1,800 property crimes were recorded. Safety initiatives and community policing efforts aim to reduce these numbers, but residents are encouraged to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity.