Duplin County, North Carolina — County Report Card

NC

#80 in North Carolina
35.7
County Score
Cost of Living 63.2Weather & Climate 62.4Property Tax 58.7

County Report Card

About Duplin County, North Carolina

Struggling to Match National Scores

Duplin County's composite score of 35.7 is significantly below the national median of 50.0. The county faces broad challenges in aligning its socioeconomic outcomes with national standards.

Behind the State Average

The county trails the North Carolina state average of 44.7 by nine points. This ranking highlights the rural county's struggle to provide the same level of services as more urbanized areas of the state.

Affordable Housing and Value

Affordability is Duplin's main draw, with a cost score of 63.2. Median home values are very accessible at $123,200, and gross rents average just $815 per month.

Income and Education Gaps

The income score is a low 18.2, reflecting a median household income of only $51,880. Low scores in schools (20.4) and safety (14.0) further underscore the need for community investment.

Ideal for Low-Cost Living

Duplin County is best for those whose primary goal is minimizing housing expenses and living simply. It suits individuals who can trade off higher income potential and school quality for some of the state's most affordable real estate.

Score breakdown

Tax58.7Cost63.2Safety14Health24.4Schools20.4Income18.2Risk10.6Water51.2Weather62.4
🏛58.7
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty
🏠63.2
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty
💼18.2
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty
🛡14
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty
24.4
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty
🎓20.4
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty
10.6
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty
💧51.2
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty
🌤62.4
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty
🪨29.9
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty
🌱26.5
Lawn Care
Lawn difficulty score based on climate, soil, and grass suitability
LawnByCounty
🛒
Farmers Markets
Local market density, SNAP/EBT acceptance, and product variety
MarketsByCounty
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Deep Dives

Duplin County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Duplin County

via TaxByCounty

Duplin County taxes above the national average rate

Duplin County's effective tax rate of 0.740% exceeds the national median of 0.92%—wait, that math reverses: Duplin's 0.740% actually falls short of the national 0.92% median. However, the median annual tax of just $912 sits far below the national median of $2,690, reflecting Duplin's significantly lower median home value of $123,200.

Duplin's rate ranks above the North Carolina average

At 0.740%, Duplin County's effective tax rate exceeds North Carolina's 0.701% state average, placing it in the upper-middle tier of the state's counties. Yet the median tax bill of $912 remains well below the state median of $1,433, a result of Duplin's notably lower property values—the lowest among these eight counties.

Duplin has the highest rate but lowest tax bill

Duplin's 0.740% rate ranks higher than all nearby counties including Craven (0.665%), Davidson (0.631%), and Davie (0.667%), yet its median tax of $912 is the region's lowest. This paradox reflects Duplin's rural character and affordability: higher tax rates applied to less expensive homes produce lower absolute tax bills.

What your home costs in property taxes

On Duplin's median home value of $123,200, the 0.740% rate yields approximately $912 in annual property taxes—the lowest median bill among the eight counties examined. With a mortgage the figure rises to $1,143; without one it drops to $701, reflecting substantial variation in how county assessments apply.

Even modest tax bills deserve review

Rural properties in Duplin County can be difficult to assess fairly, and outdated valuations are common in agricultural areas where recent sales are sparse. Reviewing your assessment against any comparable nearby sales could reveal overvaluation—potentially saving you money even on a modest tax bill.

Cost of Living in Duplin County

via CostByCounty

Duplin's deep rural affordability wins

Duplin County residents enjoy a rent-to-income ratio of 18.9%, barely above the national average of 18%, despite earning the lowest median household income ($51,880) in this entire sample. Monthly rents of just $815 make even low-income households' housing burden manageable in this rural coastal county.

Rural affordability above state average

Duplin's 18.9% rent-to-income ratio slightly exceeds North Carolina's state average of 18.6%, but its $815 median rent is the lowest in this eight-county comparison. For residents with the state's lowest incomes, Duplin delivers the most accessible housing.

Lowest rents in the eastern region

Duplin's $815 rent undercuts every neighboring county except Davidson ($863), and dramatically beats coastal peers like Craven ($1,100) and Dare ($1,307). This rural location's affordability advantage is unmistakable for budget-conscious residents.

Ownership costs less than renting

Homeowners pay just $707 monthly while renters pay $815 on a median income of $51,880—the only county in this sample where ownership clearly undercuts renting. Housing consumes about 18.9% of income for renters and 16.3% for owners, making ownership the better financial position here.

Duplin for maximum affordability in NC

If stretching a tight budget is your priority, Duplin County offers North Carolina's lowest rents at $815 monthly and the cheapest median home value ($123,200). Budget-conscious relocators should seriously compare Duplin's 18.9% housing burden against Davidson's 16.6% to weigh rural tradeoffs against your income needs.

Income & Jobs in Duplin County

via IncomeByCounty

Duplin Faces Significant Income Gap

Duplin County's median household income of $51,880 trails the national median of $74,755 by 30.6%. The county ranks in the bottom 15% of U.S. counties for household income.

NC's Lowest-Income County Tier

Duplin's $51,880 median household income falls 15% below North Carolina's state average of $61,072. The county ranks among the state's economically most challenged jurisdictions.

Struggling in Its Region

Duplin households earn $12,755 less than Craven County and $39,668 less than Dare County. The county faces the steepest income disadvantage among all peers, reflecting agricultural dependence and limited urban development.

Affordable Housing, Limited Resources

At 18.9%, Duplin's rent-to-income ratio remains manageable, and median home values of $123,200 are the lowest in this group. However, the low median income limits capacity to build savings and handle financial emergencies.

Focus on Stability and Skills

Duplin households should prioritize skill development and education to boost earning potential, alongside building even modest savings of $1,000–$2,000. Explore local economic development initiatives and workforce training programs to improve long-term income trajectory.

Safety in Duplin County

via CrimeByCounty

Duplin County Safety Stays Near National Norms

Duplin County reports a total crime rate of 2455.8 per 100K, slightly exceeding the national average of 2,385.5. This results in a safety score of 96.1.

Slightly Below the State Safety Mark

The county's safety score of 96.1 is just below the North Carolina average of 96.8. Eight local agencies contribute to data that shows crime rates slightly above the state's typical levels.

Comparing Duplin to Regional Neighbors

Duplin County experiences more crime than Craven County but remains significantly safer than Cumberland County. Its crime profile is typical for a mid-sized rural North Carolina county.

Violent Crime Low, Property Crime Higher

Violent crime is low at 253.5 per 100K, well below the national average of 369.8. However, property crime is higher than the national average, reaching 2202.3 per 100K.

Focusing on Theft Prevention

Because property crime is the primary driver of Duplin's statistics, securing outbuildings and vehicles is essential. Simple steps like installing motion lights can significantly reduce the risk of local property crimes.

Health in Duplin County

via HealthByCounty

Duplin faces the nation's worst health crisis

Duplin County residents live to 73.8 years, about 5.3 years below the U.S. average of 79.1 years, and face the highest poor/fair health rate (22.6%) among these eight counties. This rate dramatically exceeds the national average of 17.5%, reflecting severe population health distress.

Duplin ranks among North Carolina's worst

With a life expectancy of 73.8 years, Duplin falls 0.6 years below North Carolina's 74.4-year average, while its 15.7% uninsured rate stands highest among all eight counties—nearly 3.2 percentage points above the state average. These metrics signal economic hardship and healthcare access barriers.

Duplin's crisis stands out even among struggling peers

While Craven (73.6) and Davidson (73.3) share Duplin's low life expectancy, Duplin's 22.6% poor/fair health rate is sharply worse than any peer—nearly 5 percentage points above the next-highest. The high uninsured rate and low provider supply suggest Duplin faces unique barriers.

Severe provider shortages compound access crisis

Duplin has only 23 primary care providers per 100,000 residents—less than one-third the national average—and just 75 mental health providers per 100,000. Combined with the highest uninsured rate at 15.7%, residents face a triple bind: few providers, high poverty, and inability to pay.

Coverage is critical for Duplin's health

Duplin's 15.7% uninsured rate—highest in this group—demands immediate action at healthcare.gov, where most residents qualify for substantial subsidies. Getting insured is essential to breaking the cycle that drives Duplin's alarming health disparities and high rates of poor health reports.

Schools in Duplin County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Foundation of Large Primary Campuses

Duplin County operates 13 public schools serving 9,905 students within its single school district. The county uses a unique structure of eight elementary schools and five high schools, with no standalone middle schools. This model often sees students remain on the same campus from pre-kindergarten through eighth grade.

Working Toward Improved Academic Outcomes

Duplin's graduation rate currently stands at 84.0%, which is lower than the state's 88.0% and the nation's 87.0%. The county spends $6,268 per pupil and maintains a school score of 48.8. These metrics reflect the challenges of providing comprehensive services in a rural, lower-expenditure environment.

Unified Education via Duplin County Schools

The entirety of the county's 9,905 student body is managed by Duplin County Schools. There are zero charter schools in the area, ensuring that all public funding and resources remain within the traditional district. This unified oversight focuses on providing consistent curriculum across the county's large primary campuses.

Large Schools in a Rural Environment

The county is primarily rural, with 10 of 13 schools located in quiet country settings. Despite the rural locale, average school size is a robust 762 students, with Rose Hill-Magnolia and Wallace Elementary both serving over 1,100 students. This creates a school feel that is both rural and socially dynamic due to the large campus populations.

Discover Rural Living with Large School Hubs

Families in Duplin County enjoy a rural lifestyle without feeling isolated, thanks to the large, centralized school campuses. The PK-8 model is a popular feature for parents who prefer their children to stay in one educational environment for nearly a decade. Look for homes in Rose Hill or Wallace to be near the county's most populous schools.

Disaster Risk in Duplin County

via RiskByCounty

Duplin's risk ranks well above national average

Duplin County's composite score of 89.41 significantly exceeds the national average of 50, earning a "Relatively Moderate" rating. The county's coastal-adjacent location and exposure to multiple hazard types create a complex and demanding disaster risk profile.

Among North Carolina's riskiest counties

Duplin's 89.41 score places it in North Carolina's top tier of disaster-prone counties, well above the state average of 66.72. Only a handful of counties face comparably high composite risk across the state's 100.

Duplin rivals coastal and inland risk leaders

Duplin (89.41) matches the risk profile of Craven County (93.58) and nearly mirrors Dare County (89.60), while far exceeding nearby Davie County (41.67). The county's hurricane exposure rivals coastal neighbors while maintaining strong tornado and flood risks that reflect its agricultural heartland location.

Hurricanes and tornadoes drive the threat

Hurricane risk at 97.54 is Duplin's most acute hazard—nearly matching coastal county levels—while tornado risk at 83.11 creates a secondary but significant threat. Flood risk at 66.41 and wildfire risk at 65.90 round out a diverse and challenging multi-hazard environment.

Comprehensive coverage for mixed hazards needed

Duplin residents should secure flood insurance and verify hurricane/wind coverage; the county's dual tornado threat makes a designated shelter space essential. Agricultural properties require additional consideration for wildfire preparedness, including defensible space and clearance around structures.

Weather & Climate in Duplin County

via WeatherByCounty

Warm Temperatures and Heavy Rainfall

Duplin's 60.6°F average reflects a warm southern climate well above the national median. High annual rainfall and long summers define the weather patterns in this agricultural hub.

Warmer Than the State Average

The county is over one degree warmer than the North Carolina average of 59.3°F. It experiences more extreme heat days than most inland or mountain counties.

Leading the Region in Heat and Rain

With 57 days of extreme heat, Duplin is significantly hotter than Edgecombe's 40 days. It also leads this group in annual precipitation with 54.6 inches.

Intense Heat and Minimal Snowfall

Summer peaks with a July average of 79.2°F and 57 days over 90°F. Winters are very mild at 43.8°F, and snow is rare, averaging only 1.4 inches.

Plan for Sustained Summer Extremes

Prepare for nearly two months of temperatures exceeding 90°F with robust cooling systems. Effective drainage is also vital to handle the heavy 54.6 inches of annual rain.

Soil Quality in Duplin County

via SoilByCounty

Classic coastal plain acidity

Duplin County soil has a pH of 5.06, which is slightly more acidic than the North Carolina average of 5.14. Like most of the region, it sits well below the national median pH of 6.5.

A sandy profile for easy tilling

The mix is 70.5% sand and only 7.9% clay, creating a light soil that is very easy to work with machinery. The 13.1% silt content adds just enough body to keep the soil from being pure sand.

Solid organic matter near state norms

Organic matter is 4.78%, nearly reaching the state average of 5.12%. However, the available water capacity of 0.120 in/in is slightly low, suggesting that crops may need extra water during the peak of summer.

Rapid infiltration requires monitoring

Though specific drainage data is missing, the 70.5% sand content points toward very high drainage rates. Farmers should be aware that water and liquid fertilizers may move through the soil quickly.

Abundant harvests in Zone 8a

Zone 8a provides a long season for Duplin's famous agricultural output, from corn to soybeans. Home gardeners can succeed with almost any summer vegetable provided they monitor moisture closely.

Lawn Care in Duplin County

via LawnByCounty

A Hard Road for Duplin Lawns

Duplin County is a challenging place for turf, with a low difficulty score of 26.5. This is significantly tougher than the state average of 40.8 and only about half as easy as the national median. Homeowners in this Zone 8a region should prepare for a high-maintenance relationship with their yard.

Extreme Heat and High Precipitation

Duplin endures 57 days of extreme heat annually, creating a high-stress environment for any grass variety. While the 54.6 inches of rain is plentiful, the combination of heat and 4,864 growing degree days creates a massive demand for mowing. Managing humidity-related fungus is a constant battle during the long, hot summers.

Acidic Sands Dominate the Earth

The soil foundation is 70.5% sand and only 7.9% clay, which leads to poor nutrient retention and very fast drainage. A pH of 5.06 is highly acidic and requires significant lime applications to allow grass roots to function properly. Without heavy soil amendments, fertilizers will often wash away before the lawn can benefit.

Persistent Severe Drought Stress

With 35 weeks spent in drought over the last year and 100% of the county currently in severe drought, water management is paramount. The sandy soil exacerbates these dry periods by losing moisture almost immediately after it falls. Drought-tolerant grass species are not just a preference here; they are a necessity for survival.

Tough Turf for a Tough Climate

Bermuda and Centipede grass are the most reliable choices for Duplin’s heat and acidic soil. To ensure success, wait until the soil warms up after the April 7 frost before laying sod or seeding. Focusing on soil health and pH correction in the spring will pay dividends when the 57 days of extreme heat arrive.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Duplin County's county score?
Duplin County, North Carolina has a composite county score of 35.7 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 Duplin County rank among counties in North Carolina?
Duplin County ranks #80 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 Duplin County, North Carolina?
The median annual property tax in Duplin County is $912, with an effective tax rate of 0.74%. This earns Duplin County a tax score of 58.7/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Duplin County?
The median household income in Duplin County, North Carolina is $51,880 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Duplin County earns an income score of 18.2/100 on CountyScore.
Is Duplin County, North Carolina a good place to live?
Duplin County scores 35.7/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #80 in North Carolina. The best way to evaluate Duplin 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 Duplin County with other counties side by side.