Watauga Public RecordsNorth Carolina

As of 2022, Watauga County, NC, had a population of approximately 54,090. The population is about 50% male and 50% female. The median age is around 29 years, reflecting the presence of Appalachian State University. Racially, the county is 90% White, 3% Hispanic or Latino, 2% Asian, 2% Black or African American, and 3% from other or mixed races. The relatively young median age distinguishes Watauga from many other rural counties in North Carolina.

Watauga County, NC, has approximately 41,000 registered voters as of 2024. The county conducts municipal, primary, and general elections, with key polling sites including the Watauga County Administration Building and multiple precincts in Boone. In the 2020 presidential election, Watauga saw a 74% turnout, with 53% voting Democratic and 45% Republican. Major local issues include affordable housing and university-town relations. Elections are overseen by the bipartisan Watauga County Board of Elections, ensuring fair process across party lines, with active participation from both Democratic and Republican parties.

Watauga County, NC, features a median home value of roughly $372,000 (2023), with about 52% homeownership and 48% renters. The average monthly rent is $1,350. Property values have increased by around 4.5% year-over-year. Housing types include single-family homes, cabins, condos, and student apartments. Popular neighborhoods include Boone, Blowing Rock, and Valle Crucis. The 2023 property tax rate is $0.317 per $100 assessed value. The region blends residential, vacation, and student housing, driven by Appalachian State University and tourism.

As of 2023, Watauga County, NC, had an unemployment rate of approximately 2.6%. Key employment sectors include educational services (notably Appalachian State University), health care, and retail, with education employing around 31% of the workforce and health care 13%. The largest occupational groups are education, sales, and office administration. About 83% of residents drive alone to work, and the average commute time is 19 minutes. While most workers are employed within the county, around 26% commute to neighboring areas such as Caldwell and Ashe counties.

Watauga County, NC, hosts 9 public schools, including Watauga High, serving over 4,400 students. Around 40% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, exceeding state averages. Watauga High boasts a graduation rate of 93% and test scores above state norms. School safety initiatives include resource officers and anti-bullying programs. Comprehensive educational offerings feature AP, CTE, and dual-enrollment classes. AppalCART supports adult education through transportation to Appalachian State University and Caldwell Community College, fostering lifelong learning.

Watauga County, NC maintains a relatively low crime rate compared to state and national averages. According to recent data, the violent crime rate is approximately 14 incidents per 100,000 residents, significantly under North Carolina’s average of 21. Property crime occurs at a rate of around 308 per 100,000, also below the state average of 505. The Watauga County Sheriff’s Office regularly reports crime statistics and works with the Boone Police Department to ensure public safety, with strong community engagement and prompt reporting aiding effective law enforcement.