Durham Public RecordsNorth Carolina

As of 2022, Durham County, NC, has a population of approximately 327,900. The gender split is about 52% female and 48% male. The median age is around 36 years. Racially, the county is 48.5% White, 36.9% Black or African American, 6.3% Asian, and 0.6% Native American, with 14.8% identifying as Hispanic or Latino (of any race). The county's population has grown steadily, reflecting its diverse and dynamic community.

Durham County, NC, has over 228,000 registered voters (as of 2024), predominantly Democratic (about 70%). Voters participate in municipal, county, state, and federal elections, including primaries and generals. In the 2020 presidential election, 80% voted for the Democratic candidate. There are 57 polling locations across the county. Key issues include affordable housing, education, and criminal justice reform. Elections are administered by the Durham County Board of Elections. Major parties are Democratic and Republican, with some Libertarian and unaffiliated voters. Voter turnout in major elections often exceeds 65%.

Durham County, NC features a homeownership rate of around 55%, with median home values near $370,000 as of 2024. Median monthly rents are about $1,400. Popular neighborhoods include Downtown Durham, Southpoint, and Trinity Park, offering a mix of single-family homes, townhomes, and apartments. The county’s real estate market has seen property values rise over 7% year-over-year. Durham County property tax rates are approximately $1.227 per $100 assessed value, impacting annual homeowner costs. The area is known for diverse housing options, vibrant community life, and proximity to major research and healthcare institutions.

Durham County, NC, boasts a May 2024 unemployment rate of approximately 3.3%. Major employment sectors include healthcare and social assistance (22%), educational services (17%), and professional, scientific, and technical services (15%). About 45% of workers hold management, business, science, and arts occupations. The average commute time is around 23 minutes, with nearly 70% of residents commuting by car. Significant employment hubs include Duke University and Research Triangle Park, drawing both local and regional commuters.

Durham County, NC, has 53 public schools, including 10 high schools. The graduation rate is 83%, with about 42% of adults holding a bachelor’s degree or higher. Key high schools, like Durham School of the Arts, boast above-average scores (average SAT: 1160). Educational programs include magnet, STEM, and advanced placement tracks. School safety initiatives have led to a reported 22% decrease in disciplinary incidents since 2020. Adult education is bolstered by Durham Tech, which enrolls over 14,000 annually.

Durham County, NC, experienced a 7% increase in violent crimes in 2023, reporting approximately 1,670 incidents, while property crimes decreased by 4% to around 6,200 cases. The overall crime rate is about 36 per 1,000 residents, higher than the national average of 23. Reporting is facilitated through Durham Police Department’s online and phone systems. Despite safety initiatives, certain areas face elevated risks. Residents are encouraged to participate in community safety programs to help reduce crime rates further.