Craven County, North Carolina — County Report Card

#75 in North Carolina

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37.8

County Score

Water Quality 67.1Property Tax 66.9Weather & Climate 59

County Report Card

About Craven County, North Carolina

Falling Behind the National Median

Craven County earns a composite score of 37.8, placing it well below the national median of 50.0. This score reflects a community that faces significant headwinds in balancing its economic and environmental factors compared to the rest of the country.

Trailing the North Carolina Average

The county's overall score sits nearly seven points below the North Carolina state average of 44.7. While many neighbors perform better on the composite scale, Craven maintains a distinct profile in the eastern part of the state.

Clean Water and Manageable Taxes

Water quality and tax policy are the county's strongest assets, with scores of 67.1 and 66.9 respectively. Residents benefit from a low effective tax rate of 0.665%, which helps stretch the median household income of $64,635.

Addressing High Environmental Risks

A low risk score of 6.4 indicates significant vulnerability to natural disasters or climate factors. Additionally, the safety score of 26.4 and school score of 29.7 suggest that public services and community security are areas for targeted improvement.

A Coastal Option for Budget-Conscious Renters

Craven County suits households looking for affordable coastal living, with a median gross rent of $1,100 per month. It is best for those who prioritize low tax burdens over top-tier school rankings or absolute safety scores.

Score breakdown

🏛66.9

Property Tax

Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks

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🏠26.8

Cost of Living

Median rent, home values, and housing affordability

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💼52.6

Income & Jobs

Median household income and per capita earnings

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🛡26.4

Safety

Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents

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❤39.9

Health

Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access

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🎓29.7

Schools

Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment

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⚡6.4

Disaster Risk

FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more

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💧67.1

Water Quality

EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades

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🌤59

Weather & Climate

Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events

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🪨39

Soil Quality

Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content

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🌱22.4

Lawn Care

Lawn difficulty score based on climate, soil, and grass suitability

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🛒

Farmers Markets

Local market density, SNAP/EBT acceptance, and product variety

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Deep Dives

Craven County across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 10 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in Craven County

via TaxByCounty

taxbycounty.com

Craven's tax rate lags behind national norm

At 0.665%, Craven County's effective property tax rate sits well below the national median of 0.92%, placing it in the lower half of U.S. counties. Homeowners here pay $1,372 annually on a median home valued at $206,200—less than half the national median property tax of $2,690, largely because homes are less expensive in this region.

Craven ranks in the middle of NC counties

North Carolina's average effective tax rate stands at 0.701%, and Craven's 0.665% rate puts it slightly below that statewide average. The county's median tax bill of $1,372 is nearly identical to the state median of $1,433, reflecting typical property values for rural eastern North Carolina.

Similar tax burden to nearby counties

Craven's rate of 0.665% closely mirrors neighboring Davie County (0.667%) and falls between Davidson County (0.631%) to the west and Currituck County (0.456%) to the north. Local homeowners with mortgages pay around $1,434 annually, tracking with regional norms for this part of the state.

What your home costs in property taxes

On Craven's median home value of $206,200, you'd owe approximately $1,372 in annual property taxes at the current 0.665% rate. With a mortgage, that figure rises slightly to $1,434 due to escrow adjustments; without a mortgage, it drops to $1,275.

Challenge your assessment if it seems high

Property assessments don't always reflect market reality, and many Craven County homeowners are paying taxes on inflated valuations. If your home's assessed value seems out of line with recent sales in your neighborhood, filing an appeal with the county tax assessor's office could lower your bill.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Craven County

via CostByCounty

costbycounty.com

Craven rents slightly strain household budgets

Renters in Craven County dedicate 20.4% of their income to housing, slightly above the national average of 18%. This means a typical renter household earning $64,635 annually spends about $1,100 monthly on rent—a manageable but tight burden compared to national norms.

Middle of the pack in North Carolina

Craven's rent-to-income ratio of 20.4% ranks it above North Carolina's state average of 18.6%, indicating moderately higher housing pressure than typical for the state. At $1,100 per month, median rent exceeds the state average of $938, contributing to this less favorable position.

Pricier than inland cousins

Craven's $1,100 median rent sits between nearby Davidson County ($863) and coastal Dare County ($1,307). While more affordable than the beachside premium in Dare, Craven costs renters significantly more than the piedmont bargains found in Davidson and Duplin counties.

Split nearly evenly between rent and ownership

Renters spend $1,100 monthly while homeowners pay $976—a rare case where renters pay more than owners. With median household income at $64,635, housing absorbs roughly one-fifth of gross income for renters and about 18% for mortgage holders.

Consider Craven for coastal living on budget

If you're drawn to North Carolina's coastal communities, Craven offers more affordable rents than Dare County while maintaining similar income levels to neighboring regions. Compare Craven's $1,100 rents and $206,200 median home values against inland alternatives like Davidson or Davie for your best affordability match.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Craven County

via IncomeByCounty

incomebycounty.com

Craven Earns Below National Median

Craven County's median household income of $64,635 lags 13.5% behind the national median of $74,755. The county ranks outside the top half of U.S. counties by income, positioning it in the lower-middle range nationally.

Above Average Among NC Counties

Craven's $64,635 median household income exceeds North Carolina's state average of $61,072 by about 5.8%. This places Craven in the upper-middle tier of the state's 100 counties.

Strong Income vs. Nearby Counties

Craven households earn $5,855 more than Cumberland County ($58,780) but significantly less than neighboring Dare County ($81,214). Among its peers, Craven ranks solidly, outpacing several eastern NC counties while trailing the coastal prosperity zone.

Rent Remains Affordable Here

At 20.4%, Craven's rent-to-income ratio sits below the 21% affordability threshold, meaning most renters spend a manageable portion of income on housing. The median home value of $206,200 is achievable for households earning above the county median.

Build Financial Security Today

With above-state-average income and reasonable housing costs, Craven households have room to save and invest. Consider directing 10-15% of household earnings toward retirement accounts and emergency savings to strengthen long-term financial resilience.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Craven County

via CrimeByCounty

crimebycounty.com

Craven County Outperforms National Safety Averages

Craven County reports a total crime rate of 1793.3 per 100K residents, significantly lower than the national average of 2,385.5. This performance earns the county a safety score of 97.2 out of 100.

Exceeding the North Carolina Safety Standard

The county's safety score of 97.2 sits comfortably above the North Carolina state average of 96.8. Local law enforcement across seven reporting agencies maintains a total crime rate roughly 12% lower than the state average.

A Safer Profile Among Regional Peers

Craven County maintains a lower crime rate than neighbors like Duplin County, which sees 2455.8 crimes per 100K. While some eastern counties struggle with higher rates, Craven remains a regional leader in public safety.

Property Crimes Drive Local Statistics

Property crime accounts for the bulk of local incidents at 1505.5 per 100K, while violent crime remains low at 287.8. Both categories track well below national figures, indicating a generally secure environment for residents.

Securing Your Craven County Property

With property crime as the primary concern, residents should prioritize basic home security measures like outdoor lighting and smart locks. Staying informed through local reporting helps keep these low crime rates stable.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Craven County

via HealthByCounty

healthbycounty.com

Craven's life expectancy lags national average

At 73.6 years, Craven County residents live about 5.5 years less than the U.S. average of 79.1 years. Nearly 1 in 5 residents (19.1%) report poor or fair health, compared to the national average of 17.5%, suggesting significant health challenges across the county.

Below-average health within North Carolina

Craven County's life expectancy of 73.6 years falls 0.8 years below North Carolina's state average of 74.4 years. With an uninsured rate of 11.0%—better than the state's 12.5%—residents have slightly more insurance coverage, though health outcomes remain concerning.

Neighbors show stark health disparities

Craven's 73.6-year life expectancy contrasts sharply with nearby Currituck County (77.1 years) and Dare County (78.2 years), both of which boast significantly better health outcomes. Even neighboring Cumberland County at 72.8 years faces similar struggles, suggesting eastern and central North Carolina face distinct health challenges.

Primary care accessibility remains a barrier

Craven has 75 primary care providers per 100,000 residents—above the national average of 65 but still limiting choice and wait times for a growing population. Mental health services are more robust at 326 providers per 100,000, though the uninsured rate of 11.0% means many residents cannot afford to access them.

Check your coverage options today

If you're among Craven's uninsured residents, healthcare.gov and North Carolina's state marketplace make enrollment straightforward—many qualify for financial help. Taking time to explore plans now can connect you to preventive care that addresses the county's broader health challenges.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Craven County

via SchoolsByCounty

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A Coastal Network of Community Schools

Craven County operates 26 public schools that serve 12,755 students within a single unified district. The infrastructure includes 15 elementary schools, five middle schools, and five high schools. This centralized system provides consistent educational resources across the coastal region.

Consistent Performance and Budget Efficiency

The county achieves an 87.0% graduation rate, matching the national average and sitting just below the state average of 88.0%. Officials manage a school score of 50.9 with a per-pupil expenditure of $6,496. While spending remains below the state average of $6,969, the county maintains competitive academic outcomes.

Unified Oversight via Craven County Schools

Craven County Schools manages all 12,755 students in the area across its 26 campuses. Unlike many neighboring counties, this region contains zero charter schools, keeping the entire student population within the traditional public system. This structure allows for a high degree of district-wide coordination.

From Busy City Hubs to Rural Classrooms

The county offers a diverse mix of environments, including nine rural schools, eight in towns, and seven in city settings. New Bern High is the largest campus with 1,631 students, while the average school size is a manageable 491 students. This variety ensures families can find a school setting that matches their preferred lifestyle.

Plant Roots Near High-Performing Districts

Families looking for stability often explore homes near the large campuses of New Bern or Havelock. The county's blend of city and rural schools makes it a versatile choice for buyers prioritizing education infrastructure. Secure your future in a community that values consistent public education.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Craven County

via RiskByCounty

riskbycounty.com

Craven ranks above average for disaster risk

With a composite risk score of 93.58, Craven County faces significantly higher natural disaster risk than the national average of 50. The county's "Relatively Moderate" rating reflects a landscape vulnerable to multiple hazard types, particularly hurricanes and tornadoes.

Among North Carolina's riskiest counties

Craven's score of 93.58 places it well above North Carolina's state average of 66.72, ranking it in the upper tier of the state's 100 counties. This elevation reflects the county's coastal and regional vulnerability to severe weather systems.

Craven faces higher risks than nearby counties

Craven's score of 93.58 exceeds neighboring Currituck County (18.07) substantially, and compares closely to Dare County (89.60) to the north. Both Craven and Dare share intense hurricane exposure, but Craven's inland tornado risk pushes its overall score higher.

Hurricanes and tornadoes pose top threats

Hurricane risk dominates at 98.62—among the highest in the state—while tornado risk at 86.39 creates an additional multi-season threat. Flooding also presents a consistent hazard with a score of 76.05, particularly during heavy rainfall and storm surge events.

Comprehensive insurance is essential here

Standard homeowners policies don't cover hurricane or flood damage; Craven residents should secure separate flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program and review hurricane/wind coverage with their agent. Given the dual tornado and hurricane threat, a robust emergency preparedness plan—including a safe room or shelter—offers critical protection.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Craven County

via WeatherByCounty

weatherbycounty.com

One of the Warmest and Wettest

Craven County averages 63.3°F, making it one of the warmest counties in the entire nation. Its high annual precipitation of 55.9 inches far exceeds the national median.

A Coastal Temperature Leader

Craven exceeds the North Carolina average temperature of 59.3°F by a full four degrees. It also ranks significantly higher than the state average for annual rainfall.

Warmer Than Neighboring Chowan

Compared to Chowan, Craven is over a degree warmer and receives nearly 5 inches more rain. It experiences 41 days of extreme heat, typical for the central coast.

Tropical Summers and Soft Winters

July averages a humid 80.6°F, while January is the warmest in this group at 45.6°F. Snow is a rarity, with the county averaging less than an inch (0.8") per year.

Prioritize Rain and Heat Protection

Residents should invest in heavy-duty moisture control and hurricane preparedness for the 55.9 inches of annual rain. Outdoor gear should be highly breathable to handle the 41 days of 90-degree heat.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Craven County

via SoilByCounty

soilbycounty.com

Acidic soils define the Craven landscape

Craven County soils are highly acidic with an average pH of 4.48, which is much lower than the national median of 6.5. While specific taxonomic orders aren't documented here, this low pH level strongly influences local nutrient availability.

Sandy textures drive easy workability

The soil composition is 65.2% sand and 21.7% silt, with a small 10.8% clay fraction. This sandy mix makes the earth easy to work and dig, though it may require frequent watering to keep plants hydrated.

Exceptional organic matter boosts growth

Organic matter is a standout feature at 8.55%, far surpassing the state average of 5.12%. Combined with an available water capacity of 0.148 in/in, this soil offers higher-than-average potential for sustaining vigorous plant life.

Managing water in sandy profiles

Specific drainage and hydrologic classifications are currently unlisted, but the high sand content suggests rapid water movement. Gardeners should monitor for quick drying in the summer months to maintain consistent moisture.

A Zone 8b paradise for acid-loving plants

The mild climate of Zone 8b is perfect for growing blueberries and azaleas that thrive in acidic soil. With a high overall soil score of 39.0, your garden has a great head start on the state average.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Craven County

via LawnByCounty

lawnbycounty.com

A Demanding Landscape in Coastal Craven

Craven County presents a significant challenge for lawn enthusiasts with a difficulty score of 22.4, well below the national median of 50.0. While the USDA Hardiness Zone 8b allows for a variety of warm-season grasses, maintaining them requires more effort than in most North Carolina counties. Local gardeners face much steeper hurdles than the state average score of 40.8 suggests.

Abundant Rain and Persistent Heat

The county receives 55.9 inches of annual precipitation, which is higher than both the state average of 51.6 inches and the national ideal range. Frequent moisture combined with 41 extreme heat days creates a humid environment that keeps mowing schedules busy throughout 5,490 growing degree days. Homeowners must balance this natural irrigation with the stress caused by high summer temperatures.

Managing Highly Acidic Sandy Soil

With a soil pH of 4.48, Craven County lawns sit far below the ideal 6.0 to 7.0 range, requiring regular lime applications to neutralize acidity. The soil is comprised of 65.2% sand, which facilitates fast drainage but struggles to retain essential nutrients for turf health. Heavy amendments are necessary to build a sustainable foundation for any grass variety here.

Navigating Severe Drought Conditions

Despite high annual rainfall, the county spent 36 weeks in drought over the past year, with over 60% of the area currently facing severe conditions. This volatility means smart irrigation is essential even when the season seems wet. Residents should prioritize deep, infrequent watering to encourage root growth during these frequent dry spells.

The Best Path to Green Grass

St. Augustine and Centipede grass thrive best in Zone 8b and can handle the local soil acidity better than other varieties. Aim to establish your lawn after the last spring frost on March 20 to take advantage of the long growing season before the November 20 freeze. Starting with sod provides a head start against the aggressive coastal weeds.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Craven County's county score?

Craven County, North Carolina has a composite county score of 37.8 out of 100 on CountyScore. This score is calculated from a weighted average of available data dimensions including property tax, cost of living, income, safety, health, and schools.

How does Craven County rank among counties in North Carolina?

Craven County ranks #75 among all counties in North Carolina on CountyScore's composite ranking. Rankings are based on available data dimensions and updated as new data is added.

What are property taxes like in Craven County, North Carolina?

The median annual property tax in Craven County is $1,372, with an effective tax rate of 0.67%. This earns Craven County a tax score of 66.9/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).

What is the median household income in Craven County?

The median household income in Craven County, North Carolina is $64,635 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Craven County earns an income score of 52.6/100 on CountyScore.

Is Craven County, North Carolina a good place to live?

Craven County scores 37.8/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #75 in North Carolina. The best way to evaluate Craven County is to compare individual dimension scores — property tax, cost of living, income, safety, health, and schools — based on your personal priorities. Use CountyScore to compare Craven County with other counties side by side.

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🏛Property Tax 🏠Cost of Living 💼Income & Jobs 🛡Safety ❤Health 🎓Schools ⚡Disaster Risk 💧Water Quality 🌤Weather & Climate 🪨Soil Quality 🌱Lawn Care 🛒Farmers Markets

Data from U.S. Census Bureau ACS, FBI UCR, CDC, FEMA NRI, NCES, EPA SDWIS, NOAA — informational only.