Macon Public RecordsNorth Carolina

As of 2022, Macon County, NC has a population of approximately 37,800. The median age is 52.2 years, reflecting a significant older adult population. About 50.5% are female and 49.5% male. Racially, the county is predominantly White (89.7%), with smaller populations of Hispanic or Latino (5.7%), two or more races (2.7%), Asian (0.7%), and Black or African American (0.6%).

Macon County, NC, had approximately 28,600 registered voters as of 2024. Elections include local, state, and federal contests, with recent turnout reaching around 65% in general elections. In 2020, Republicans won most county offices, reflecting a GOP registration dominance (about 54%), with Democrats and unaffiliated voters comprising 21% and 24% respectively. The Board of Elections administers voting, overseeing 15 polling locations. Key issues include education funding, economic development, and infrastructure. Multiple parties compete, though Republicans often prevail. Early voting and absentee ballots are also available, ensuring broad voter access.

Macon County, NC, has a homeownership rate of approximately 79%, with a median home value around $264,000 in 2023. The median rent is about $950 per month. The area features a mix of single-family homes, cabins, and some townhomes, primarily in neighborhoods such as Franklin, Highlands, and Otto. Recent years saw property values rise by nearly 7% annually. Property taxes are relatively low, with a 2023 effective rate of $0.36 per $100 assessed value. The market appeals to retirees and families, offering rural charm, mountain views, and outdoor amenities.

As of 2022, Macon County, NC, had an employment rate of approximately 54.6% for residents aged 16 and over. Key industries include Health Care & Social Assistance (18.1%), Retail Trade (15.6%), and Accommodation & Food Services (12.3%). Occupation types are led by Office & Administrative Support (13.7%) and Sales (12.9%). Most residents (over 80%) commute by car, with an average travel time of 24.1 minutes; about 76% work within the county, while the rest commute to neighboring counties like Jackson and Swain for employment.

Macon County, NC, serves around 4,400 public school students across 11 schools, including 2 high schools. The graduation rate is approximately 86%, and about 22% of adults have a bachelor’s degree or higher. Average school performance scores hover near the state average, with Franklin High School scoring 50/100 (GreatSchools). Educational programs include career and technical education and dual enrollment via Southwestern Community College. School safety measures align with state guidelines, and the district offers adult education, GED, and ESL programs.

Macon County, NC, maintains a moderate crime rate, with violent crime reported at approximately 2.8 incidents per 1,000 residents and property crime at 19.5 per 1,000, both below the national averages. In 2023, the Sheriff's Office emphasized proactive community policing and transparency in crime reporting. Overall, recent statistics indicate a stable or declining trend: total reported crimes decreased by around 6% from the previous year. Residents generally regard the county as safe, with most incidents related to property offenses rather than violent crimes.