Pender County Public RecordsNorth Carolina

Pender County, NC, has a crime rate lower than the national average, with recent statistics showing about 1,200 total reported crimes annually. Violent crimes, including assault and robbery, account for approximately 15% of cases, while property crimes such as burglary and theft make up the remaining 85%. The county’s law enforcement emphasizes community policing, and crime reporting rates have increased due to improved public engagement. Pender County’s safety index is around 67 out of 100, reflecting a relatively moderate risk compared to larger urban areas.

Pender County, NC has over 47,000 registered voters as of 2024, with registrations roughly split among Republicans (42%), Democrats (23%), and Unaffiliated (35%). Elections include local, state, and federal offices. In the 2020 presidential race, Republicans won with 64% of the county vote. Pender has 18 polling locations managed by the Board of Elections. Key local issues include hurricane recovery, school funding, and growth management. Elections are overseen by a five-member board, ensuring compliance and transparency in both primaries and general elections.

As of 2022, Pender County, NC has a population of approximately 65,737. The median age is about 43 years. Gender distribution is nearly even, with 49.7% male and 50.3% female. Racially, the population is predominantly White (76.2%), followed by Black or African American (16.2%), Hispanic or Latino (5.7%), and other races (1.9%). The county has seen steady growth, reflecting its appeal as a residential and retirement destination.

Pender County, NC, has 19 public schools, including 3 high schools, serving around 10,000 students. The high school graduation rate is 88%, and 23% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Average test scores are close to the state mean, with a district rating of B-. The county offers Career & Technical Education (CTE), Advanced Placement (AP), and dual enrollment programs. School safety is a priority, with increased security measures implemented since 2022. Adult education programs are available through Cape Fear Community College, supporting workforce and continuing education needs.

Pender County, NC, had an unemployment rate of approximately 3.2% as of early 2024. Major employment sectors include healthcare and social assistance (15%), retail trade (13%), and construction (11%). The dominant occupation types are office/administrative support (14%) and sales (12%). About 86% of residents commute to work by car, with over 50% traveling outside the county, primarily to New Hanover County (notably Wilmington). The average commute time is around 29 minutes, reflecting significant daily outbound commuting for employment.

Pender County, NC, boasts a homeownership rate of about 75%, with a median home value around $315,000 in 2023—a 6% annual increase. Median rent is approximately $1,400 monthly. Housing types include single-family homes, townhouses, and waterfront properties, notably in Hampstead, Surf City, and Burgaw. Popular neighborhoods like Belvedere Plantation and Wyndwater attract families and retirees. Property tax rates average 0.68%, lower than the national average. The area’s real estate market is competitive, driven by coastal proximity and population growth, offering both affordable and luxury options for buyers and renters.