Henderson County Demographics

Henderson County, NC, has a population of approximately 116,200 (2022). The median age is 48.8 years, reflecting a sizeable senior population. Females constitute 52.2% and males 47.8%. Racially, the county is 85.6% White, 4.4% Black or African American, 1.2% Asian, and 6.2% from other races, including 11.2% Hispanic or Latino (of any race). The area’s demographic profile highlights both an aging community and a growing Hispanic presence.

Henderson County Elections

Henderson County, NC, had 87,154 registered voters as of 2024, with 39% Republican, 22% Democrat, and 39% Unaffiliated. Elections include presidential, congressional, state, county, and municipal races; in 2020, 66.5% voted Republican for President. The county operates 35 polling locations, managed by the Board of Elections. Recent issues include election security and absentee ballot procedures. Major parties are GOP and Democrats, with rising interest in Unaffiliated affiliations. Early and absentee voting is offered, contributing to Henderson’s 74% voter turnout in 2020, above the state average.

Henderson County Housing

Henderson County, NC, boasts a homeownership rate of about 77%, with median home values around $345,000 in 2024—a 7% increase year-over-year. Median rent is approximately $1,400/month. Housing stock includes single-family homes (dominant), townhomes, and some multi-family units. Popular neighborhoods include Laurel Park, Flat Rock, and downtown Hendersonville. Property taxes average 0.67% of assessed value, among the lowest in North Carolina. The market remains competitive, featuring both established neighborhoods and newer developments.

Employment in Henderson County

As of 2023, Henderson County, NC, has an employment rate of approximately 61%. Major industries include healthcare & social assistance (22%), retail trade (13%), and manufacturing (12%). Leading occupations are in management, sales, and office support, comprising 42% of jobs. Around 77% of residents commute by car, with a mean commute time of 22 minutes; nearly 44% work outside the county, primarily in Buncombe County, including Asheville. Unemployment rate hovers around 3.5%, reflecting strong local labor market conditions.

Education in Henderson County

Henderson County, NC, is served by Henderson County Public Schools, which includes 13 elementary, 4 middle, and 6 high schools. The county's high school graduation rate is about 90%, while approximately 29% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Schools score an average of 7/10 on GreatSchools ratings. The district offers Advanced Placement, career-technical, and early college programs. School safety initiatives include resource officers and behavioral intervention programs, with the county reporting fewer than 2 incidents per 1,000 students annually. Adult education is supported by Blue Ridge Community College and literacy programs.

Henderson County Crime & Safety

Henderson County, NC, maintains a relatively low crime rate compared to state and national averages. In 2023, the overall crime rate was 1,275 incidents per 100,000 residents, significantly below North Carolina’s average of 2,646. Property crimes, such as burglary and theft, accounted for over 72% of cases, while violent crimes were reported at 170 per 100,000 residents. The sheriff’s office emphasizes community policing and transparent reporting, contributing to a sense of safety among residents. Annual reports and real-time statistics are available on official county websites, promoting public awareness and engagement in crime prevention.