Franklin County Demographics

As of 2023, Franklin County, NC, has an estimated population of about 73,000. The median age is approximately 41 years. Females make up 51%, and males 49% of the population. Racially, the county is 62% White, 27% Black or African American, 7% Hispanic/Latino, 1% Asian, and 3% reporting other or two or more races. The population has grown steadily, reflecting both suburban expansion and an increasingly diverse community.

Franklin County Elections

Franklin County, NC, had approximately 44,000 registered voters in 2022. The Board of Elections oversees municipal, primary, and general elections. In the 2020 general election, turnout reached about 72%. Key polling locations include Franklinton and Louisburg, totaling 13 precincts. Recent issues include school bond referendums and broadband expansion. Democrats and Republicans constitute the primary parties, with Democrats holding a slight registration edge (about 49% Democrat, 26% Republican, 25% unaffiliated). The County Board of Elections administers and certifies results to ensure accessible and secure voting processes.

Franklin County Housing

Franklin County, NC, has a homeownership rate of around 73%, with median home values at approximately $245,000 (2024). Renters pay a median rent near $1,150 per month. The property market has seen annual appreciation of about 6% in recent years. Housing types range from historic single-family homes in Louisburg and Youngsville to newer developments in Franklinton. Popular neighborhoods include Lake Royale and Olde Liberty. Property tax rates average 0.83% of assessed value, making taxes roughly $2,034 annually on a median-priced home. The area offers both rural charm and suburban conveniences.

Employment in Franklin County

Franklin County, NC, has an unemployment rate of approximately 3.4% (April 2024). Key employment sectors include health care and social assistance (13.5%), education (11.7%), retail trade (11.2%), and manufacturing (9.6%). The majority of workers (77%) commute outside the county for work, with Raleigh and Wake County being top destinations. The most common occupations are office and administrative support (13.8%) and sales (10.9%). The average commute time is about 32 minutes.

Education in Franklin County

Franklin County, NC, has 25 public schools serving approximately 8,000 students, with 3 high schools. About 84% of adults hold a high school diploma, and 18% have a bachelor's degree or higher. The average public school rating is 4/10 (GreatSchools). School safety measures include resource officers and anti-bullying programs. Educational programs feature Advanced Placement, career and technical education, and dual-enrollment options. Adult education is available through Vance-Granville Community College.

Franklin County Crime & Safety

Franklin County, NC, has seen fluctuating crime rates in recent years. In 2022, the county reported a violent crime rate of 3.2 per 1,000 residents and a property crime rate of 13.5 per 1,000. The most common incidents were larceny-theft and burglary. The sheriff’s office promotes community safety through neighborhood watch programs and encourages prompt reporting of suspicious activities. Despite a slight increase in property crime, Franklin County’s overall crime rate remains below the state average of 5.4 violent crimes per 1,000 residents, indicating a relatively safe community.