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Hoke County, North Carolina — County Report Card

NC

#82 in North Carolina

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Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers MarketsView on Map
35.4
County Score
Property Tax 64.1Weather & Climate 64Water Quality 62.2

County Report Card

About Hoke County, North Carolina

Performance Lags the National Median

Hoke County receives a composite score of 35.4, placing it well below the 50.0 national median. This indicates that Hoke faces more socioeconomic challenges than roughly 65% of the country.

Below the North Carolina Average

The county's overall score of 35.4 falls short of the North Carolina average of 44.7. Despite a growing population, the county's infrastructure and income metrics lag behind the state's pace.

Low Taxes and Safe Water

Hoke County performs well in tax and water metrics, scoring 64.1 and 62.2 respectively. The effective tax rate of 0.692% provides financial relief to residents earning a median household income of $60,095.

High Risk and Low Safety

The county's biggest hurdles are its safety score of 16.3 and a cost score of 25.0, influenced by rising housing costs. Environmental risks score at 49.9, which is moderate but still requires local attention.

Best for Commuter Families

Hoke County is a viable option for families seeking lower property taxes and decent water quality within North Carolina. It suits those who can commute to higher-wage areas while taking advantage of the local tax structure.

Score breakdown

Tax64.1Cost25Safety16.3Health32.8Schools32.5Income39.2Risk49.9Water62.2Weather64
🏛64.1
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠25
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼39.2
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡16.3
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤32.8
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓32.5
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡49.9
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧62.2
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤64
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨15.8
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱34.6
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

Hoke County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Hoke County

via TaxByCounty

Hoke taxes slightly below national norm

Hoke County's 0.692% effective rate sits just below the national median of 0.703%, placing it near the 45th percentile nationally. At $1,357 annually on a median home worth $196,000, Hoke residents enjoy moderate tax treatment compared to the US average.

Hoke slightly favors NC homeowners

Hoke's 0.692% effective rate trails the state average of 0.701%, positioning the county in the lower half of North Carolina's 100 counties by tax burden. The county offers slightly better-than-average tax positioning statewide.

Hoke balanced within Piedmont region

Hoke's 0.692% rate sits between lower-burden Harnett (0.744%) and higher-burden Guilford (0.883%), and well below eastern counties like Halifax and Hertford. The Piedmont shows more consistent tax rates than the stark regional divide between mountain and eastern areas.

Typical Hoke County tax payment

On the median home valued at $196,000, Hoke residents pay approximately $1,357 in annual property taxes. With mortgage escrow included, the amount typically rises to about $1,527.

Assessment appeals work in any county

Even in moderate-rate counties, individual properties can be overvalued relative to the market, especially if homes haven't sold recently. Hoke homeowners should compare their assessed value to recent arm's-length sales of similar properties and appeal if a gap exists.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Hoke County

via CostByCounty

Hoke renters highest-burdened in group

Hoke County's 20.9% rent-to-income ratio is the worst in our eight-county analysis, with renters paying $1,047/month against median household income of just $60,095. This is well into affordability crisis territory.

Among NC's most strained counties

Hoke's 20.9% rent-to-income ratio ranks well above North Carolina's state average of 18.6%, placing the county among the state's least affordable. Median household income lags behind most comparison counties despite regional rent competition.

Highest burden despite moderate rents

Hoke's $1,047 rent is mid-range among comparison counties, but the lowest median income ($60,095) creates the worst ratio. The county represents a cautionary tale: moderate housing costs can still overwhelm limited incomes.

Renters and owners equally squeezed

Renters pay $1,047/month while homeowners face $1,076/month in costs—both consuming over 20% of income. Median home value of $196,000 offers reasonable entry, but financing remains difficult for households stretched thin on rent.

Hoke: relocation risk without income boost

Hoke County's 20.9% rent-to-income ratio is the state's worst—avoid relocating here unless you're bringing significantly higher income than the county median. Without remote work or professional employment, you'll inherit the same affordability crisis facing current residents.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Hoke County

via IncomeByCounty

Hoke trails nation by $14,600

Hoke County's median household income of $60,095 falls short of the national median of $74,755 by roughly $14,600, positioning it in the lower-middle tier of American counties. The county earns slightly below state average, reflecting a rural economy with limited access to major metropolitan wage centers.

Hoke slightly below state average

At $60,095, Hoke County's median household income trails North Carolina's state average of $61,072 by just under $1,000, placing it near the state median. The county's per capita income of $29,575 falls below the state average of $33,920, suggesting concentration of earnings among fewer households.

Hoke mid-tier among peer counties

Hoke's $60,095 median household income ranks below Harnett ($69,012) and Henderson ($67,623) but slightly above Haywood ($61,001) and rivals Guilford. The county represents a typical small rural economy with modest earning capacity, neither among the strongest nor most challenged in the region.

Rent at upper limit, homes modestly priced

At 20.9% of income, Hoke's rent-to-income ratio approaches the threshold of affordability strain, leaving tight household budgets after rent is paid. The median home value of $196,000 requires substantial down payment relative to median income, making homeownership a stretch for many Hoke households.

Small savings steps, long-term thinking

Hoke households should start with $500–$1,000 emergency savings, then commit to automatic contributions of $30–$75 monthly to employer retirement plans or IRAs. Over 30 years, consistent modest investing at 6–7% returns can grow to $75,000–$100,000, providing meaningful retirement security despite current modest income levels.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Hoke County

via CrimeByCounty

Hoke County Safety Near National Average

Hoke County's total crime rate of 2298.0 per 100,000 residents is just below the national average of 2,385.5. The county maintains a safety score of 96.4, indicating a generally secure community. While crime exists, it remains slightly less frequent than the typical American experience.

Hoke Ranks Close to State Safety Norms

The county's safety score of 96.4 is just below the North Carolina average of 96.8. However, its total crime rate of 2298.0 is higher than the state average of 2,050.0. This suggests that while individual safety is high, the overall frequency of incidents is elevated compared to other NC counties.

Local Comparisons with Nearby Counties

Hoke County experiences more frequent crime than Hertford County, which reports a lower rate of 1470.0. It also shows a higher crime volume than Harnett County, where the rate is 2051.0. These differences reflect the unique law enforcement challenges facing Hoke County.

Violent Crime Elevated Above National Rate

Hoke County reports a violent crime rate of 710.9 per 100,000, which is nearly double the national average of 369.8. Conversely, the property crime rate of 1587.1 is lower than the national average of 2,015.7. This indicates that while theft is less common, violent incidents are a more significant concern for local safety.

Prioritizing Personal and Home Security

Given the elevated violent crime rate, residents should focus on comprehensive home security and personal awareness. Motion sensors and monitored alarm systems provide an extra layer of protection for your family and property. Staying connected with neighbors can help build a safer and more vigilant community.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Hoke County

via HealthByCounty

Hoke County faces health barriers

Life expectancy in Hoke County is 72.7 years, nearly 2 years below the U.S. average of 74.5 years. Over 1 in 5 residents (20.8%) report poor or fair health, well above the national average of 18%.

Hoke lags behind North Carolina

At 72.7 years, Hoke's life expectancy falls nearly 2 years short of North Carolina's 74.4-year state average. The county ranks among the state's more challenged communities on health outcomes.

Acute provider shortage

Hoke has just 21 primary care providers per 100,000 residents—among the lowest in the region. Mental health providers number 204 per 100,000, also below average, limiting residents' care options.

11.2% of Hoke residents uninsured

Combined with severe provider shortages, Hoke's 11.2% uninsured rate leaves residents with few local options. Many residents must travel long distances for basic healthcare.

Get coverage and care access

Enroll in a health plan at nchealthplans.gov or call 1-855-408-1010 for free help. Coverage opens doors to care outside your county when local options are limited.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Hoke County

via SchoolsByCounty

Streamlined Education for a Growing Population

Hoke County operates 14 public schools serving 8,920 students under a single unified district. The infrastructure includes 8 elementary, 3 middle, and 3 high schools to support the local community.

Strong Graduation Rates and Steady Progress

The county maintains an 88.0% graduation rate, which perfectly aligns with the North Carolina state average. Per-pupil expenditure is $6,501, and the county holds a solid 51.4 composite school score.

Hoke County Schools Serves Everyone

As the only district in the county, Hoke County Schools manages all 14 facilities and 8,920 students. There are no charter schools within the county, centralizing all educational activity within the public district system.

Suburban Accessibility and Large High Schools

With 8 of 14 schools in suburban areas, the county offers a manageable commute for families. Hoke County High is the defining landmark of the district, hosting a large student body of 2,060.

Convenient Living Near Suburban Schools

Hoke County is ideal for those seeking a suburban lifestyle with consistent academic performance. Look for properties near the main campus of Hoke County High to be at the heart of the district’s activity.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Hoke County

via RiskByCounty

Hoke County shows lowest regional risk

Hoke's composite risk score of 50.13 is well below the national average, earning a Relatively Low rating and positioning it among America's safer counties. Residents face significantly reduced natural disaster exposure compared to national norms.

Among North Carolina's lowest-risk counties

At 50.13, Hoke ranks in the bottom quarter of North Carolina's 100 counties, substantially below the state average of 66.72. This Sandhills location provides meaningful protection against most major hazard types.

Safest county in its immediate area

Hoke (50.13) significantly outperforms neighbors Robeson (higher risk) and Cumberland, making it a notably safer location in the southern Piedmont. Even compared to larger regions, Hoke maintains one of the state's lower risk profiles.

Wildfire and hurricane pose main threats

Hoke's wildfire risk (80.18) is elevated relative to its low composite score, reflecting Sandhills forest vulnerability during dry periods. Hurricane risk (83.98) ranks second, while flood, tornado, and earthquake risks remain comparatively modest.

Wildfire preparation matters most here

With wildfire risk at 80.18, maintain defensible space around your home and ensure your policy covers fire damage from wildfires. Standard homeowners coverage typically includes structure fire, but verify your specific wildfire protection.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Hoke County

via WeatherByCounty

Warm Sandhills weather exceeds national norms

Hoke County records a 60.4°F annual average temperature, placing it well above the 55°F national median. The region's sandy soil and inland position contribute to this warm subtropical profile.

Outpacing the North Carolina temperature average

At 60.4°F, the county is notably warmer than the statewide average of 59.3°F. This makes Hoke one of the toastier regions in the North Carolina Sandhills.

Dryer and hotter than its neighbors

The county receives 48.6 inches of rain annually, which is nearly three inches less than the state average of 51.5 inches. This combination of heat and lower precipitation defines the local agricultural landscape.

Expect significant summer heat and rare snow

Hoke endures 54 days above 90°F annually, nearly double the frequency of counties further north. Winter remains gentle with only 2.8 inches of average annual snowfall.

Prioritize cooling and efficient irrigation

With 54 days of extreme heat, high-efficiency air conditioning is a necessity for health and comfort. Gardeners should plan for the drier 48.6-inch annual rainfall by choosing drought-tolerant plants.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Hoke County

via SoilByCounty

Acidic and Sandy Sandhill Soils

Hoke County has a soil pH of 5.02, falling below both the state average of 5.14 and the national median of 6.5. This acidic profile is paired with a soil score of 15.8, indicating significant natural limitations for standard agriculture. Most growers will need to actively manage soil chemistry to find success.

Extreme Sand-Dominant Profile

At 75.3% sand, Hoke has one of the highest sand concentrations in the state, with only 9.1% clay and 15.6% silt. This texture is very loose and offers excellent aeration but struggles to provide structural support or nutrient storage. It is essentially an inland beach environment for plant roots.

Low Moisture Holding Potential

The organic matter content is 2.05%, which beats the national average but is less than half of the state average. Most critically, the available water capacity is very low at 0.097 in/in, significantly under the state average of 0.134. This soil dries out extremely fast, making irrigation a necessity for most crops.

Fastest Drainage in the Region

Water moves through Hoke’s 75.3% sand almost instantly, creating a very dry hydrologic environment. While this means you will almost never see a puddle, it also means nutrients leach away quickly after rain. Builders appreciate the stability of these dry sands, but farmers must work hard to keep plants hydrated.

Zone 8a Heat and Sand

Hoke's Zone 8a climate and sandy soil are ideal for native Longleaf Pines and drought-tolerant herbs like rosemary. Watermelons and grapes also tend to favor these well-drained, sandy conditions. With a bit of mulch and regular watering, you can turn this sandy terrain into a thriving landscape.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Hoke County

via LawnByCounty

High Heat Challenges in Hoke

Hoke County is a challenging environment for lawns, scoring just 34.6 on the difficulty scale. This Zone 8a county requires a strategic approach to handle intense summer conditions that are much tougher than the national average.

Searing Summers and Long Seasons

Hoke faces 54 extreme heat days per year, well above the state average of 38, putting extreme stress on any turf. The 4,813 growing degree days ensure a very long active period that demands high water and nutrient inputs.

Sandy Soil and Acidic Roots

At 75.3% sand, Hoke's soil drains incredibly fast, which can lead to rapid dehydration of grass roots. The low pH of 5.02 means essential nutrients are often locked away, requiring lime to balance the chemistry for growth.

Facing 100% Severe Drought

The county spent 28 weeks in drought last year and currently sits entirely under severe drought conditions. Selecting drought-hardy Bermuda grass and leaving clippings on the lawn can help provide shade for the soil surface.

Planting for High Heat

Only the most heat-tolerant grasses like Bermuda or Bahia should be considered for this climate. Your primary growing window starts after the April 3 frost and ends when the first freeze arrives around November 3.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Hoke County's county score?
Hoke County, North Carolina has a composite county score of 35.4 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 Hoke County rank among counties in North Carolina?
Hoke County ranks #82 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 Hoke County, North Carolina?
The median annual property tax in Hoke County is $1,357, with an effective tax rate of 0.69%. This earns Hoke County a tax score of 64.1/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Hoke County?
The median household income in Hoke County, North Carolina is $60,095 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Hoke County earns an income score of 39.2/100 on CountyScore.
Is Hoke County, North Carolina a good place to live?
Hoke County scores 35.4/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #82 in North Carolina. The best way to evaluate Hoke 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 Hoke County with other counties side by side.

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