Lee County Public RecordsNorth Carolina

As of the 2020 Census, Lee County, NC, had a population of 63,285. The median age is 39.3 years. The population is 49% male and 51% female. Racially, the county is 61% White, 20% Black or African American, 2% Asian, and 14% identifying as two or more races. Approximately 23% of residents are Hispanic or Latino of any race, reflecting growing diversity in the area.

Lee County, NC, experiences a moderate crime rate, with recent statistics showing an overall crime rate of approximately 23.7 crimes per 1,000 residents. Property crime is the most common, accounting for about 20.3 incidents per 1,000 people, while violent crime rates remain lower at 3.4 per 1,000. Crime reports are managed by local law enforcement and published annually. Compared to national averages, Lee County’s violent crime rate is slightly below average, though property crime is marginally higher. Residents are encouraged to report suspicious activities promptly to maintain community safety.

Lee County, NC, had approximately 41,000 registered voters in 2024. The county conducts primary, general, and municipal elections, with polling at 13 locations, including the Board of Elections office in Sanford. In the 2020 presidential election, Republicans received 56% and Democrats 43% of the vote. Key issues include economic development and education. The Board of Elections oversees registration and voting processes, ensuring compliance. Party affiliation is roughly 38% Democrat, 34% Republican, and 28% unaffiliated. Early voting and mail-in options are available to residents.

Lee County, NC, features 16 public schools, including 2 high schools, serving about 9,400 students. Around 82% of adults hold a high school diploma, while 17% possess a bachelor’s degree or higher. Average public school math and reading proficiencies are 44% and 47%, respectively. School safety initiatives and specialized educational programs, such as STEM and career and technical education, enhance learning opportunities. The high school graduation rate stands at 85%, and adult education is supported through Central Carolina Community College, offering workforce and continuing education options.

As of early 2024, Lee County, NC boasts an employment rate of approximately 95.2%. The largest employment sectors include manufacturing (28%), healthcare and social assistance (16%), and retail trade (12%). Key occupation types are production (22%), office/administrative support (16%), and sales (11%). About 83% of workers commute by car, with an average travel time of 26 minutes; roughly 68% work within Lee County while 32% commute to neighboring counties, mainly Wake and Harnett.

Lee County, NC has a homeownership rate of about 64%, with the median home value at approximately $214,000 as of 2023. Median rent is around $1,040 per month. The market has seen property values rise roughly 9% year-over-year. Housing options include single-family homes, townhouses, and some apartments, mainly concentrated in neighborhoods like Westlake Valley and Harrington Grove. Property tax rates average 0.88% of assessed value. The county’s housing market remains competitive but relatively affordable compared to state averages.