Scotland Public RecordsNorth Carolina

As of the 2020 Census, Scotland County, NC, has a population of approximately 34,174. The median age is about 39.6 years, with 48.4% male and 51.6% female residents. Racially, the county is 41.5% White, 37.8% Black or African American, 11.2% Native American, 3.9% Hispanic or Latino, and 2.5% identifying as two or more races. This demographic mix reflects the county’s diverse and balanced population.

Scotland County, NC, had approximately 21,000 registered voters in 2024. Elections include federal, state, and local races, with polling locations such as Scotland High School and precinct sites. In the 2020 presidential election, 52% favored the Democratic candidate and 47% the Republican. The county is administered by the Scotland County Board of Elections, overseeing voter registration and absentee ballots. Key issues include economic development and education. The area is politically competitive, with around 49% registered Democrats, 28% Republicans, and 23% unaffiliated.

Scotland County, NC, has a homeownership rate around 63%, with median home values near $105,000 in 2023. Median monthly rent is approximately $800. The housing market trends show modest growth, with property values rising about 4% year-over-year. Housing options range from single-family homes to some apartment complexes, with neighborhoods like Laurinburg and Wagram offering diverse choices. Property tax rates average 0.97%, resulting in an annual tax of about $1,020 on a median-priced home. Affordable costs and varied housing types make Scotland County appealing to both homeowners and renters.

As of early 2024, Scotland County, NC, has an unemployment rate of 5.8%. Major employment sectors include manufacturing (27%), healthcare and social assistance (19%), and educational services (12%). Common occupation types are production (23%), office and administrative support (15%), and management (10%). Around 81% of workers commute by car, with 18% working outside the county, primarily in Robeson and Richmond counties. The average commute time is 23 minutes.

Scotland County, NC, serves around 5,600 K–12 students across 10 public schools, including Scotland High School. Approximately 81% of adults hold a high school diploma, while 13% possess a bachelor’s degree or higher. The county’s average SAT score is approximately 970. School safety initiatives include on-site resource officers and security upgrades. Adult education is supported through Richmond Community College’s Laurinburg campus. Educational programs emphasize STEM and career readiness, but the overall school rating is below state average, with multiple schools rated C or lower by the NC School Report Cards.

Scotland County, NC, has a higher crime rate compared to state and national averages. In 2023, the county reported a violent crime rate of approximately 6.8 per 1,000 residents and a property crime rate of about 30.2 per 1,000 residents. Law enforcement emphasizes community policing and timely crime reporting for safety. Although there are ongoing efforts to reduce incidents, residents are advised to remain vigilant. The county’s crime statistics are regularly updated and accessible through the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation.