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Pamlico County, North Carolina — County Report Card

NC

#22 in North Carolina

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Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers MarketsView on Map
52.6
County Score
Schools 80Property Tax 74.7Water Quality 62.8

County Report Card

About Pamlico County, North Carolina

Exceeding the National Median

Pamlico County earns an impressive composite score of 52.6, surpassing the national median of 50.0. This makes it a standout performer for overall livability on the national stage.

Top Performer in North Carolina

At 52.6, Pamlico is well above the state average of 44.7. It ranks as one of the most balanced counties in the state, offering high quality of life across several dimensions.

Elite Schools and Low Taxes

Pamlico shines with a school score of 80.0 and a tax score of 74.7. Families benefit from excellent education and a low effective tax rate of 0.599%.

Risk and Safety Concerns

Despite high scores elsewhere, a risk score of 27.6 and a safety score of 34.3 show room for improvement. These metrics reflect local vulnerabilities to environmental changes and regional safety trends.

Ideal for Educational Excellence

This county is a perfect match for families who prioritize public school quality and low taxes. It offers a rare combination of high livability and manageable housing costs for coastal NC.

Score breakdown

Tax74.7Cost48.1Safety34.3Health39.8Schools80Income44Risk27.6Water62.8Weather58.6
🏛74.7
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠48.1
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼44
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡34.3
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤39.8
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓80
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡27.6
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧62.8
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤58.6
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨46.1
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱24
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

Pamlico County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Pamlico County

via TaxByCounty

Pamlico below national tax average

Pamlico County's effective tax rate of 0.599% sits comfortably below the national median of 0.957%, placing it in the lower half of U.S. counties. The median property tax of $1,257 is less than half the national median of $2,690, thanks to lower home values of $209,800.

Among North Carolina's lowest rates

Pamlico's 0.599% effective rate ranks well below North Carolina's state average of 0.701%, making it one of the state's most tax-friendly counties. This favorable environment supports affordability for homeowners.

Competitive coastal tax position

Pamlico's 0.599% rate rivals New Hanover (0.587%) as one of the region's lowest, while remaining below Pender County (0.696%) and Onslow (0.652%). The county offers solid tax value among coastal alternatives.

About $1,257 on median home

On Pamlico's median home value of $209,800, the 0.599% rate translates to roughly $1,257 in annual property taxes. Homeowners with mortgages typically pay around $1,389, while those without pay approximately $1,149.

Don't assume assessments are correct

Even in favorable tax environments, property assessments can contain errors or overstate values. A periodic review of your assessment ensures you're not paying more than your fair share.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Pamlico County

via CostByCounty

Pamlico punches above its weight on affordability

Pamlico County's 17.7% rent-to-income ratio beats the national average despite a median household income of $61,624—$13,131 below the national median—demonstrating that modest wages and genuinely low rents can create real housing relief. At $909 per month, Pamlico's median rent is one of the region's most accessible.

North Carolina's affordability sweet spot

Pamlico County's 17.7% rent-to-income ratio sits below the state average of 18.6%, and its $909 median rent is nearly on par with the state median of $938, making it a genuinely affordable option statewide. This combination of below-average costs and below-state-average income ratios marks Pamlico as one of the region's safest bets for renters.

Moderate rents in a quiet eastern county

Pamlico's $909 median rent ranks second-most affordable after Northampton's $749, and it undercuts Perquimans ($1,061), Pasquotank ($1,146), and Onslow ($1,198) by meaningful margins. Unlike Northampton, Pamlico's median income of $61,624 sits higher than some peers, offering slightly more stability.

Renting and owning both reach affordably

Pamlico renters spend $909 monthly while homeowners pay $791—unusually favorable for buyers—on a median home value of $209,800, a smart opportunity for those seeking equity. Housing consumes roughly 18% of a $61,624 median income, leaving reasonable room for savings and other necessities.

Quiet county, strong housing value

Pamlico County delivers genuine affordability without the income sacrifice of Northampton, making it attractive for families seeking stability. If you work remotely or have portable income, Pamlico offers one of the region's best combinations of accessible rents and reasonable ownership costs.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Pamlico County

via IncomeByCounty

Pamlico earns below national average

Pamlico County's median household income of $61,624 lags the national median of $74,755 by 17.5%, reflecting modest economic capacity. This positions Pamlico in the lower-middle income range nationally, typical of rural coastal counties.

Slightly edges North Carolina's average

Pamlico County's $61,624 median household income basically matches the state average of $61,072, placing it right at the median statewide. The county's economy relies heavily on fishing, agriculture, and small business, creating stable but limited income growth.

Middle of the pack among eastern peers

Pamlico's $61,624 income places it between Perquimans County ($61,224) and Pasquotank County ($63,912), making it representative of eastern North Carolina's coastal tier. New Hanover and Pender counties substantially outpace Pamlico, creating a clear coastal income gradient.

Housing among the most affordable in region

Pamlico County's 17.7% rent-to-income ratio represents the region's best housing affordability, allowing households to dedicate minimal income to shelter. The median home value of $209,800 remains accessible for most working families, supporting homeownership.

Build stability through consistent saving habits

Pamlico households benefit from low housing costs, freeing up resources for emergency funds and retirement savings even at modest income levels. Small, regular contributions to savings accounts and employer retirement plans compound significantly over decades, creating long-term financial security.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Pamlico County

via CrimeByCounty

Pamlico County Safety Scores Above Average

Pamlico County earns a safety score of 97.6, which is notably higher than the state average. Its total crime rate of 1526.4 per 100K is significantly lower than the national average of 2,385.5.

A Coastal Haven Compared to the State

Compared to the North Carolina average of 2050.0, Pamlico is a very safe haven. Its safety score of 97.6 beats the state benchmark of 96.8.

Low Violent Crime Rates Near the Coast

The county sees a violent crime rate of 284.2, which is lower than both the national and state averages. This coastal community offers a more tranquil environment than its more urban neighbors.

Analyzing Property and Violent Incidents

Property crime accounts for 1242.2 per 100K, representing the vast majority of local law enforcement activity. Violent crime is relatively infrequent, meaning the risk to individuals remains low.

Protecting Your Waterfront Property

For those living in this waterfront community, securing outdoor gear and seasonal homes is a top priority. Simple deterrents like motion-activated lights are effective tools for maintaining this level of safety.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Pamlico County

via HealthByCounty

Pamlico's life expectancy lags both benchmarks

At 73.8 years, Pamlico County's life expectancy trails the national average by 2.6 years and falls 0.6 years below North Carolina's state average of 74.4 years. Nearly one in five residents (18.2%) report poor or fair health, above the national rate of 17.1%. These metrics place Pamlico among North Carolina's more challenged counties on health outcomes.

Pamlico ranks in the state's lower health tiers

Pamlico's life expectancy of 73.8 years sits below the North Carolina average, and its 18.2% poor/fair health rate exceeds the state median. The uninsured rate of 12.5% matches the state average exactly, suggesting that coverage gaps alone don't drive Pamlico's lower health outcomes. Access to and quality of healthcare services appear to be key limiting factors.

Rural isolation limits provider availability

With just 32 primary care providers per 100,000 residents, Pamlico lacks the provider density to meet community health needs effectively. Mental health providers number only 121 per 100,000—among the state's lowest and one-sixth the capacity of leading counties like Orange (830 per 100K). Many residents must travel 45+ miles to access specialists or psychiatric care.

Rural healthcare desert creates daily barriers

Pamlico residents often wait weeks for primary care appointments and have virtually no local mental health services, forcing behavioral health needs to go unaddressed. The combination of limited providers and a health-challenged population creates a cycle where preventive care fails and acute care becomes the norm. Transportation to distant medical centers further complicates access.

Coverage is step one toward better health

If you're among Pamlico's 12.5% uninsured residents, health coverage is your first step toward accessing available care—and advocating for more. Visit ncdhhs.gov or call 211 to explore Medicaid or marketplace options. Covered residents can work with local health departments and federally qualified health centers to navigate the limited provider network.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Pamlico County

via SchoolsByCounty

Elite Performance in a Small Rural System

Pamlico County operates just 5 public schools, yet they serve a total of 1,728 students with remarkable efficiency. The system includes 2 elementary schools, 1 middle school, 1 high school, and a K-12 charter school. This small-scale infrastructure allows for a highly personalized educational experience across two districts.

Outstanding Graduation Rates and High Scores

Pamlico County boasts an exceptional 95.7% graduation rate, far surpassing state and national benchmarks. This success is supported by a school score of 59.3 and per-pupil spending of $8,306. The county significantly out-invests the state average to ensure its students reach the finish line.

Traditional Schools and a Popular Charter

Pamlico County Schools serves 1,244 students across four traditional campuses. The Arapahoe Charter School is a major player here, enrolling 484 students and representing 20% of the county's school facilities. This mix gives local families the choice between a traditional district and a consolidated charter model.

Every School is Part of the Rural Landscape

All five schools in the county are classified as rural, reflecting the area's quiet, spread-out nature. With an average school size of 346 students, learners benefit from an environment where they are well-known by staff. Arapahoe Charter is the largest at 484 students, while Fred A Anderson Elementary offers a very intimate 164-student setting.

Quiet Living with Top-Tier Education

For families seeking small-town life without sacrificing academic quality, Pamlico County is a hidden gem. The 95.7% graduation rate is a powerful incentive for anyone looking to buy a home in this coastal community. Explore the rural charm and high-achieving schools that define this unique county.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Pamlico County

via RiskByCounty

Pamlico faces above-average disaster risk

Pamlico County's composite risk score of 72.36 and 'Relatively Low' rating sit above the national average, reflecting coastal exposure despite its small population. Hurricane vulnerability dominates the hazard profile.

Slightly above North Carolina average

Pamlico's 72.36 score edges above the state average of 66.72, placing it in the moderate-risk band for North Carolina counties. The county's coastal position creates hurricane exposure that outweighs lower wildfire and tornado threats.

Lower-risk than Pender, higher than Pasquotank

Pamlico County (72.36) sits between Pender County (86.93) to the south and Pasquotank County (58.68) to the north in overall risk ranking. Its unique hazard mix—high hurricane risk paired with substantial wildfire danger—sets it apart from neighbors.

Hurricanes and wildfire are key concerns

Pamlico's hurricane risk of 95.66 is among the highest in the state, with low-lying coastal areas facing storm surge and flooding. Wildfire risk of 77.96 creates secondary seasonal danger, particularly during drier months.

Secure flood and wind protection coverage

Pamlico residents should obtain flood insurance, especially those in flood-prone areas; standard homeowners policies do not cover flood damage. Ensure wind/hail coverage with appropriate deductibles and maintain defensible space around structures to reduce wildfire risk.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Pamlico County

via WeatherByCounty

Pamlico’s Warm Water-Influenced Climate

The 62.5°F annual average in Pamlico County is roughly 10 degrees higher than the national median. This coastal climate is heavily influenced by the surrounding sounds and ocean.

A Top-Tier Warm County in NC

Pamlico ranks well above the 59.3°F state average, placing it in the warmest quartile of North Carolina counties. Its winter average of 47.0°F is remarkably high for the state.

Milder Winters Than Nearby Pasquotank

Pamlico’s winter average of 47.0°F is warmer than Pasquotank’s 44.9°F. It also receives nearly 10 inches more rain annually than its northern neighbor.

Wet Year-Round with Mildest Winters

Pamlico gets 57.8 inches of rain and almost no snow at 1.1 inches. The 48 days of extreme heat are tempered slightly by coastal breezes compared to inland counties.

Protect Against High Humidity and Rain

Frequent rain and high humidity make dehumidifiers and rain gear essential for residents. The 48 days of 90-degree heat necessitate consistent AC use throughout the long summer.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Pamlico County

via SoilByCounty

Intense Acidity in Coastal Wetlands

Pamlico County has a very low pH of 4.83, making it one of the more acidic areas in the state. This is well below the national median of 6.5 and even trails the state average of 5.14. While taxonomic data is unavailable, these levels are typical for soils rich in decomposed organic matter.

A Sandy and Silty Blend

The composition consists of 65.2% sand, 23.1% silt, and 11.5% clay. This mix provides a good balance between drainage and the ability to hold onto necessary minerals. The presence of silt adds a smoothness to the texture that makes it distinct from pure beach sand.

Extremely High Organic Content

Organic matter is a massive 12.09%, more than double the state average and six times the national average. Available water capacity is also superior at 0.163 in/in. This makes for an incredibly fertile environment, though the high acidity must be managed.

Hydrated and Fertile Lowlands

With no specific drainage class data, we rely on the high 0.163 AWC to understand the hydrology. This soil stays wet much longer than typical North Carolina soils, which is great for moisture-loving plants. Ensure proper grading if you are planning to build or install a foundation.

Wetland Wonders in Zone 8b

Pamlico's Zone 8b climate and rich soils are perfect for blueberries and other bog-friendly crops. The impressive soil score of 46.1 reflects the county's high natural productivity compared to the state average. Dive into gardening and make the most of this nutrient-dense coastal soil.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Pamlico County

via LawnByCounty

The State's Toughest Lawn Terrain

Pamlico County presents a major challenge with a lawn difficulty score of only 24.0, significantly lower than the North Carolina average of 40.8. Maintaining a lawn in this Zone 8b environment requires more effort and resources than almost anywhere else in the state.

Sultry Summers and Heavy Rains

The local climate features 48 extreme heat days and a high annual precipitation of 57.8 inches. These 5255 growing degree days create a long, intense season where turf must fight off heat stress and excessive moisture simultaneously.

Extreme Acidity and Sandy Soil

With a soil pH of 4.83, the ground is highly acidic and requires significant amendments to reach the ideal 6.0-7.0 range. The 65.2% sand content means nutrients wash away easily, so frequent, low-dose fertilization is often necessary.

Abnormally Dry but Managing Well

While 100.0% of the area is Abnormally Dry (D0), only 0.3% is in Severe (D2+) drought, a much better status than many inland counties. Still, the county recorded 30 weeks in drought over the last year, so consistent irrigation monitoring remains vital.

Resilient Grasses for Pamlico

Bermuda and Centipede grass are the most reliable performers for this coastal 8b climate. Start your lawn after the March 30 last frost to take advantage of the extended growing season that lasts until the first frost on November 17.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Pamlico County's county score?
Pamlico County, North Carolina has a composite county score of 52.6 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 Pamlico County rank among counties in North Carolina?
Pamlico County ranks #22 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 Pamlico County, North Carolina?
The median annual property tax in Pamlico County is $1,257, with an effective tax rate of 0.60%. This earns Pamlico County a tax score of 74.7/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Pamlico County?
The median household income in Pamlico County, North Carolina is $61,624 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Pamlico County earns an income score of 44/100 on CountyScore.
Is Pamlico County, North Carolina a good place to live?
Pamlico County scores 52.6/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #22 in North Carolina. The best way to evaluate Pamlico 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 Pamlico 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.