Pasquotank County, North Carolina — County Report Card

NC

#45 in North Carolina
45.2
County Score
Water Quality 86Weather & Climate 66.2Safety 64.2

County Report Card

About Pasquotank County, North Carolina

Trailing the National Median

Pasquotank County holds a composite score of 45.2, sitting just below the national median of 50.0. While it performs well in certain infrastructure areas, it faces challenges in general affordability.

Beating the State Average

With a score of 45.2, the county outperforms the North Carolina average of 44.7. It remains a competitive choice within the state for those looking for coastal living.

Superior Water and Safety

The county boasts an exceptional water score of 86.0 and a solid safety score of 64.2. Residents enjoy high-quality utilities and a relatively secure community environment.

Struggling Schools and Costs

The school score of 20.9 and cost score of 20.0 are significant hurdles. High median rents of $1,146 make housing expensive relative to the median income of $63,912.

Suited for Established Couples

Pasquotank is ideal for retirees or professionals who value water quality and safety more than local school rankings. It offers a stable environment for those who have already established their careers.

Score breakdown

Tax64Cost20Safety64.2Health45.8Schools20.9Income50.6Risk41.3Water86Weather66.2
🏛64
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty
🏠20
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty
💼50.6
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty
🛡64.2
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty
45.8
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty
🎓20.9
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty
41.3
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty
🌤66.2
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty
🪨51.9
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty
🌱33.9
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
Sponsored

Compare mortgage rates in Pasquotank County

Whether buying or refinancing in Pasquotank County, compare rates from top lenders to find the best deal.

See Today's Rates

Deep Dives

Pasquotank County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Pasquotank County

via TaxByCounty

Pasquotank slightly below national median

Pasquotank County's effective tax rate of 0.693% sits just below the national median of 0.957%, placing it in the lower half of U.S. counties. The median property tax of $1,547 is about 42% below the national median of $2,690, reflecting more modest home values of $223,300.

Slightly below North Carolina average

Pasquotank's 0.693% effective rate is nearly identical to North Carolina's state average of 0.701%, making it representative of statewide tax conditions. The rate remains reasonable relative to property values across the state.

Mid-range coastal tax rates

Pasquotank's 0.693% rate positions it between lower-taxed Perquimans County (0.622%) and Pender County (0.696%), offering reasonable value in the coastal region. The county maintains a balanced tax profile among its neighbors.

About $1,547 on median home

On Pasquotank's median home value of $223,300, residents pay roughly $1,547 in annual property taxes at the 0.693% rate. Those with mortgages typically pay around $1,601, while outright owners pay approximately $1,456.

Verify your assessment accuracy

Property assessments can lag behind market changes, potentially overvaluing homes relative to current conditions. If you suspect your assessment is high, an appeal is a straightforward way to ensure accurate valuation.

Cost of Living in Pasquotank County

via CostByCounty

Pasquotank's rent bite exceeds national average

Pasquotank County's 21.5% rent-to-income ratio ranks above the national average, signaling that renters here dedicate a meaningfully larger share of earnings to housing than typical Americans. With a median household income of $63,912—$10,843 below the national median—the housing burden lands harder than it does nationally.

Above-state-average housing pressure

Pasquotank County's 21.5% rent-to-income ratio exceeds North Carolina's state average of 18.6% by nearly 3 percentage points, and its $1,146 median rent is 22% above the state median of $938. This combination places Pasquotank among the state's less affordable counties despite moderate income levels.

Mid-range rents in the eastern corridor

Pasquotank's $1,146 median rent sits between Perquimans ($1,061) and Onslow ($1,198), positioning it in the regional middle tier. It significantly outpaces rural affordable havens like Northampton ($749) and Pamlico ($909), reflecting Pasquotank's status as a regional commercial center.

Rent and ownership costs remarkably similar

Pasquotank renters and homeowners face nearly identical monthly burdens—$1,146 and $1,127 respectively—on a median home value of $223,300, creating an unusual equilibrium. Housing consumes roughly 21.5% of a $63,912 median income, leaving limited cushion for the unexpected.

Balanced market for cautious movers

Pasquotank offers a middle-ground housing market with rents higher than inland alternatives but lower than premium coastal zones like Orange County. Consider Pasquotank if you prioritize regional commerce and services, but compare it against more affordable neighbors if cost of living is your priority.

Income & Jobs in Pasquotank County

via IncomeByCounty

Pasquotank trails national income standards

Pasquotank County's median household income of $63,912 falls 14.5% below the national median of $74,755, placing it in the lower-middle tier nationally. This gap reflects the economic constraints of a rural northeastern region.

Ranks slightly above North Carolina's median

Pasquotank County's $63,912 median household income exceeds the state average of $61,072 by 4.7%, ranking it modestly above the statewide median. The county's economy centers on agriculture, light manufacturing, and regional services.

Edges out most eastern coastal neighbors

Pasquotank's $63,912 income surpasses Perquimans County ($61,224) and matches Pamlico County ($61,624), making it one of the stronger earners in the northeastern tier. Only Pender and New Hanover counties in the coastal region exceed Pasquotank's income levels.

Housing costs remain proportionally manageable

At a 21.5% rent-to-income ratio, Pasquotank County sits slightly above the affordability threshold, though still within reasonable bounds. The median home value of $223,300 remains accessible to households earning near the median income.

Balance affordability with future growth planning

Pasquotank households should establish automatic savings transfers and explore first-time homebuyer programs to build equity. Taking advantage of employer-sponsored retirement plans and low housing costs creates a foundation for long-term wealth building despite moderate regional income levels.

Safety in Pasquotank County

via CrimeByCounty

Pasquotank Among the Safest Nationwide

Pasquotank County is one of the safest in the region, with a safety score of 98.7. Its total crime rate of 833.1 per 100K is nearly three times lower than the national average.

Leading the State in Public Safety

The county ranks very highly in North Carolina, easily beating the state average safety score of 96.8. Its total crime rate is also far below the state's 2050.0 average.

Peaceful Trends in the Inner Banks

With a violent crime rate of only 143.4, Pasquotank is significantly safer than the national average of 369.8. It stands out as a peaceful outlier compared to many other coastal counties.

Minimal Crime Across All Categories

Property crime is exceptionally low at 689.7 per 100K, less than a third of the national property crime rate. Violent crime is also minimal, making this a very secure place to live.

Awareness Keeps Pasquotank Secure

Because crime rates are so low, basic awareness and home security go a long way. Keeping vehicles locked and homes well-lit helps ensure the county remains a safe destination.

Health in Pasquotank County

via HealthByCounty

Pasquotank's health outcomes fall short nationally

At 73.8 years, Pasquotank's life expectancy lags the national average by 2.6 years and trails North Carolina's state average by 0.6 years. Nearly one in five residents (18.2%) report poor or fair health, exceeding the national rate of 17.1%. These gaps suggest Pasquotank faces persistent health challenges compared to national benchmarks.

Pasquotank ranks below state average on key metrics

Pasquotank's life expectancy of 73.8 years sits below the North Carolina average of 74.4 years, while its 18.2% poor/fair health rate exceeds the state median. The uninsured rate of 9.9% is notably better than the state average of 12.5%, indicating coverage isn't the main barrier to better health. Provider access and care quality appear to be limiting factors.

Moderate provider capacity constrains care access

Pasquotank offers 56 primary care providers per 100,000 residents—better than rural peers like Pamlico (32 per 100K) but well below strong performers like New Hanover (92 per 100K). Mental health providers number 263 per 100,000, providing moderate access but falling short of leading counties. Geographic spread and limited specialists require many residents to travel for care.

Good coverage, but provider gaps hinder outcomes

Despite a strong 9.9% uninsured rate, Pasquotank's 18.2% poor/fair health rate suggests that insurance coverage doesn't automatically translate to quality care access. Residents face longer waits for appointments and limited mental health services relative to population needs. Expanding primary care capacity and behavioral health resources would help convert coverage into better health.

Most Pasquotank residents have coverage already

With only 9.9% uninsured, Pasquotank has strong coverage rates—but ensure you're included in that majority. If you lack insurance, visit ncdhhs.gov or call 211 to explore Medicaid eligibility or marketplace plans. Once covered, prioritize preventive care visits to help improve Pasquotank's health trajectory.

Schools in Pasquotank County

via SchoolsByCounty

Education Infrastructure in the Albemarle Region

Pasquotank County supports 14 public schools serving 5,590 students across 2 districts. The county provides 7 elementary schools, 2 middle schools, and 5 high schools to meet the needs of the Elizabeth City area. This layout provides a balanced mix of primary and secondary education options.

Opportunities for Growth in Student Outcomes

The county's graduation rate currently stands at 79.8%, while the composite school score is 47.6. Per-pupil expenditure is $6,748, which is slightly below the state average of $6,969. Local leaders continue to focus on narrowing the gap to meet state and national performance benchmarks.

Elizabeth City Schools and Innovation Charters

Elizabeth City-Pasquotank Public Schools is the primary district, educating 4,834 students in 13 schools. The Northeast Academy of Aerospace and Advanced Technologies is a significant charter option, serving 756 students. This charter school adds a specialized, high-tech focus to the local educational landscape.

A Mix of Town and Country Schools

The county features 8 schools in town settings and 6 in rural areas, offering families different community vibes. The average school size is 399 students, making for a manageable and familiar learning environment. Northeast Academy is the largest campus, while Sheep-Harney Elementary serves 473 students in a town setting.

Find a Home Near Specialized Learning Centers

Pasquotank County offers a variety of homes near both traditional town schools and specialized charter academies. As the region grows, these schools serve as anchors for local neighborhoods and family life. Consider the diverse educational settings when choosing your next home in the Elizabeth City area.

Disaster Risk in Pasquotank County

via RiskByCounty

Pasquotank's risk is below the national norm

Pasquotank County's composite risk score of 58.68 and 'Relatively Low' rating place it below the national average for natural disaster exposure. Inland position in northeastern North Carolina limits hazard variety.

Below-average risk for North Carolina

At 58.68, Pasquotank falls notably below the state average of 66.72, ranking among the safer North Carolina counties overall. Geographic distance from mountains and moderate distance from the coast reduce exposure to extreme events.

Safer than Northampton, similar to Perquimans

Pasquotank (58.68) ranks safer than Northampton County (44.21) nearby and is comparable to Perquimans County (37.66) in overall risk. These three northeastern counties form a lower-hazard region compared to the coastal tier.

Hurricane remnants and flooding present risks

Pasquotank's hurricane risk of 91.32 is the dominant hazard, as inland areas still experience damaging winds and heavy rain from Atlantic storms. Flood risk of 63.40 reflects localized creek and stream overflow during heavy precipitation events.

Maintain basic storm preparedness and coverage

Pasquotank residents should verify that homeowners insurance includes wind and hail coverage to protect against tropical storm remnants and spring thunderstorms. Keep trees trimmed, secure outdoor items before storms, and maintain a basic emergency kit.

Weather & Climate in Pasquotank County

via WeatherByCounty

Warm Coastal Living Above National Medians

Pasquotank County’s 61.8°F average temperature exceeds the national median by nearly 9 degrees. This maritime-influenced climate provides long, warm summers.

Warmer and Drier Than State Averages

The county is significantly warmer than the 59.3°F state average. While North Carolina averages 51.5 inches of rain, Pasquotank is slightly drier at 48.9 inches.

Fewer Extreme Heat Days Than Neighbors

Pasquotank records only 37 days over 90°F, fewer than the 52 days seen in Onslow or New Hanover. Its annual average remains close to coastal peers like Onslow.

Moderate Summers and Trace Winter Snow

Summer heat is consistent with an 80.2°F July average, yet extreme peaks are less frequent than inland. Snow is a rarity, with just 0.2 inches recorded annually.

Comfortable Summers with Low Snow Prep

With only 37 extreme heat days, cooling costs may be lower than in neighboring counties. Residents can almost entirely ignore snow prep due to the 0.2-inch yearly average.

Soil Quality in Pasquotank County

via SoilByCounty

Low-Acid, High-Potential Basin Soil

Pasquotank's average pH of 5.10 is very close to the North Carolina state average. Though taxonomic classification is not currently listed, the soil is significantly more acidic than the national median of 6.5. This level of acidity is common for the low-lying coastal plains of the northeast.

Balanced Texture for All Uses

The soil contains 47.2% sand, 37.2% silt, and 12.9% clay, creating a very balanced texture. This combination prevents the soil from being too gritty or too sticky. It offers a great middle-ground for both drainage and nutrient holding capacity.

Incredible Organic and Water Wealth

Organic matter is exceptionally high at 10.58%, and the available water capacity is 0.176 in/in—both well above state averages. This soil is naturally designed to support vigorous plant growth without drying out. It represents some of the most fertile territory in the region.

Slow-Draining, Moisture-Rich Lands

Drainage class data is N/A, but the high silt content and high water capacity suggest the soil retains moisture for long periods. This is a boon for agriculture but may require drainage systems for residential landscaping. Proper water management is key in this hydrologically active county.

Thriving Gardens in Zone 8a

Zone 8a supports a wide range of crops, and Pasquotank’s 51.9 soil score is nearly double the state average. You can grow everything from corn and soybeans to beautiful wetland irises. Your backyard is a powerhouse of potential, so start planting today.

Lawn Care in Pasquotank County

via LawnByCounty

Standard Coastal Growing Challenges

Pasquotank County’s lawn difficulty score of 33.9 reflects the common struggles of coastal North Carolina living. This Zone 8a county is more difficult to manage than the national average but remains within the typical range for its geography.

Moderate Heat with Ideal Rainfall

With 48.9 inches of annual precipitation, the county sits right in the ideal range for lawn health. The area sees 37 extreme heat days per year, which is remarkably close to the state average of 38, providing a predictable summer maintenance routine.

Balanced Sands and Low pH

The soil pH is 5.10, indicating an acidic environment that benefits from regular lime applications. A mix of 47.2% sand and 12.9% clay offers a decent foundation for roots, though drainage remains a priority for local yards.

Dry Spells without Severe Impact

Pasquotank saw 31 weeks in drought this past year, yet currently maintains 0.0% Severe (D2+) drought coverage. Although 100.0% of the county is Abnormally Dry (D0), simple water-saving measures like evening watering can keep grass healthy.

The Right Grass for Zone 8a

Zoysia and Bermuda grass are excellent choices to handle the 5142 growing degree days in this region. The primary growing window begins after the March 28 last frost and extends until the first fall frost on November 17.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Pasquotank County's county score?
Pasquotank County, North Carolina has a composite county score of 45.2 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 Pasquotank County rank among counties in North Carolina?
Pasquotank County ranks #45 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 Pasquotank County, North Carolina?
The median annual property tax in Pasquotank County is $1,547, with an effective tax rate of 0.69%. This earns Pasquotank County a tax score of 64/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Pasquotank County?
The median household income in Pasquotank County, North Carolina is $63,912 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Pasquotank County earns an income score of 50.6/100 on CountyScore.
Is Pasquotank County, North Carolina a good place to live?
Pasquotank County scores 45.2/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #45 in North Carolina. The best way to evaluate Pasquotank 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 Pasquotank County with other counties side by side.