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Robeson County, North Carolina — County Report Card

NC

#95 in North Carolina

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Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers MarketsView on Map
31.9
County Score
Cost of Living 78Weather & Climate 55.3Water Quality 47.3

County Report Card

About Robeson County, North Carolina

Low National Percentile Ranking

With a composite score of 31.9, Robeson County ranks near the bottom compared to the national median of 50.0. This score reflects deep-seated challenges across health, safety, and economic dimensions.

One of the State's Most Challenged

Robeson County's 31.9 score is nearly 13 points below the North Carolina state average of 44.7. It consistently ranks as one of the more distressed counties in the state's southeastern corner.

Lowest Entry Cost for Housing

Housing affordability is the county's primary strength with a score of 78.0. The median home value of $88,600 is remarkably low, providing an accessible path to homeownership for many.

Acute Safety and Health Concerns

The county faces critical issues in safety (1.4), income (3.1), and health (8.0). These scores suggest a high level of vulnerability that impacts daily life for its $40,318 median household income.

Best for Extreme Bargain Hunters

Robeson County caters to those who must prioritize the lowest possible cost of living above all other factors. It serves as a starting point for buyers looking for the state's most affordable housing inventory.

Score breakdown

Tax45.1Cost78Safety1.4Health8Schools29.5Income3.1Risk8.9Water47.3Weather55.3
🏛45.1
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠78
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼3.1
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡1.4
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤8
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓29.5
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡8.9
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧47.3
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤55.3
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨28.2
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱28.7
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

Robeson County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Robeson County

via TaxByCounty

Robeson County leads nation in tax rate

Robeson County's effective tax rate of 0.902% ranks among the highest in the nation, significantly exceeding the national median of roughly 0.75%. Despite the highest rate regionally, median home values are the lowest at $88,600, keeping median property taxes at $799—71% below the national median of $2,690.

Highest effective tax rate in state

Robeson County's effective rate of 0.902% is the highest among all eight counties examined and well above North Carolina's state average of 0.701%. The median property tax of $799 is notably lower than the state median of $1,433, reflecting the county's significantly lower home values.

Heaviest tax burden in the region

Robeson County's 0.902% effective rate is the highest in the eight-county region, edging out Richmond County (0.929%). This makes Robeson the region's most heavily taxed, despite having the lowest median home values.

Median home tax costs just $799 yearly

A homeowner with a median-valued house in Robeson County ($88,600) pays roughly $799 in annual property taxes. Mortgage holders pay $1,134 yearly, while those without mortgages pay $661.

Appeal even your modest tax bill

Robeson County's high effective rate and low home values create a scenario where assessment errors hit hardest—every dollar matters more. Filing a free appeal with the county assessor could reduce your tax burden and help stretch your household budget.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Robeson County

via CostByCounty

Robeson County faces severe affordability crisis

Robeson County's rent-to-income ratio of 23.3% is the highest among the eight counties and represents a severe affordability burden compared to national norms. With the lowest median household income of all—just $40,318, nearly half the national median of $74,755—residents struggle despite rents of $784 per month.

North Carolina's most unaffordable county

Robeson County's rent-to-income ratio of 23.3% substantially exceeds North Carolina's 18.6% state average, marking it as the state's most strained rental market. This crisis reflects both modest rents and critically low incomes, creating the worst affordability situation in the region.

Lowest income, highest housing burden

Robeson County's median income of $40,318 falls $3,308 below Richmond County (the second-lowest at $43,626) and nearly $23,000 below the regional median. Even though rents of $784 are modest, the income gap produces a 23.3% rent-to-income ratio—the worst in the eight-county region.

Nearly one-quarter of income to rent

Robeson County households earning $40,318 spend 23.3% of income on rent, consuming roughly $784 monthly—the highest burden among all eight counties. Homeownership at $559 monthly (16.6% of income) offers substantial relief, with median home values of just $88,600 making ownership the most affordable path for locals.

Robeson County: relocate only with strong income

Robeson County's 23.3% rent-to-income ratio and $40,318 median income signal a severe affordability crisis that only high-income relocators should consider. If moving here, secure employment significantly above the county median to avoid joining residents already struggling with the nation's tightest housing burden in this analysis.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Robeson County

via IncomeByCounty

Robeson County faces severe income gap

Robeson County's median household income of $40,318 falls drastically below the national median of $74,755, a deficit of over $34,400 annually. This represents one of the widest income disparities in the nation.

Lowest income county in North Carolina

Robeson County ranks among the very lowest in North Carolina with a median income of $40,318 compared to the state average of $61,072. The county trails the state by nearly $21,000 per household.

Lowest earner in its region

Robeson County's median income trails every measured peer county, including Richmond County ($43,626) and Pitt County ($58,851). The county faces distinct economic challenges requiring targeted intervention.

Housing costs are deeply burdensome

Robeson County's 23.3% rent-to-income ratio is the highest among peer counties, meaning nearly a quarter of median income goes to rent alone. The median home value of $88,600 is the lowest regionally, yet remains difficult to afford on local wages.

Economic empowerment through education

Robeson County residents benefit most from pursuing education, certification, or entrepreneurship to increase individual earning power. Community and state programs offering job training and business support are essential pathways to economic stability.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Robeson County

via CrimeByCounty

Robeson County Safety Statistics

Robeson County has a total crime rate of 5,778.5 per 100,000, which is more than double the national average of 2,385.5. This leads to a safety score of 90.9, the lowest among its regional peers.

Safety Challenges in the State

With a safety score of 90.9, Robeson sits well below the North Carolina state average of 96.8. Eleven reporting agencies work together to address crime levels that are significantly higher than state norms.

Comparing Rates to Neighbors

Robeson's crime rate of 5,778.5 is much higher than nearby Richmond and Pitt counties. It represents one of the most active law enforcement environments in the entire state.

Analysis of Crime Severity

The violent crime rate is 1,297.9, nearly four times the national average. Property crime is also very high at 4,480.6 per 100,000 residents, indicating a widespread need for security awareness.

Essential Home Security Tips

Residents are encouraged to use smart home technologies like doorbell cameras and automated locks. Participating in community policing initiatives can help improve neighborhood safety over time.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Robeson County

via HealthByCounty

Robeson County Faces a Health Emergency

At 68.0 years, Robeson County has the lowest life expectancy in this county set—8.4 years below the U.S. average of 76.4 years and 6.4 years below North Carolina's. With 27.2% reporting poor or fair health, the county's crisis is both deep and widespread.

Robeson County's Health Ranks Lowest in NC

Robeson County's 68.0-year life expectancy and 27.2% poor/fair health rate represent the state's most severe health crisis, compounded by a 15.2% uninsured rate—the highest in this county set. These converging challenges demand coordinated intervention.

Worst Health Outcomes in the Region

Robeson County's 68.0-year life expectancy trails even Richmond County (68.8 years), and its 27.2% poor/fair health rate far exceeds all peers. The county's 15.2% uninsured rate—the highest among comparables—amplifies an already dire situation.

Limited Doctors, Too Many Uninsured

Robeson County has 51 primary care providers per 100,000 residents—less than half of Pitt County's density—while 15.2% of residents remain uninsured. This gap ensures long waits, delayed diagnoses, and preventable deaths among the county's most vulnerable.

Robeson County: Coverage Is the First Step

Robeson County's 15.2% uninsured rate is the state's highest. Visit healthcare.gov or call 1-888-453-4647 (N.C. Medicaid) today—getting everyone covered is essential to breaking this health crisis and building a healthier county.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Robeson County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Large Rural Network of Thirty-Nine Schools

Robeson County manages 39 public schools serving a large student population of 21,640. The network includes 23 elementary schools, nine middle schools, and six high schools. This infrastructure is distributed across four districts to serve one of the state's largest geographical areas.

Meeting National Graduation Standards with Efficiency

Robeson County achieves a graduation rate of 87.0%, meeting the national average despite lower funding levels. The county spends $6,478 per pupil, which is approximately $500 less than the North Carolina state average. Even with leaner budgets, the county maintains a school score of 50.8, which is above the national median.

The Public Schools of Robeson County

The Public Schools of Robeson County is the primary district, educating 21,029 students in 36 schools. Three charter schools, including Southeastern Academy and CIS Academy, provide specialized options for over 300 students. Charters represent nearly 8% of the total school count in the county.

Large Campuses in Rural and Town Locales

The county's schools are split between 20 rural sites and 19 town locations, reflecting the region's vast landscape. Campuses are generally large, with an average enrollment of 569 students. Lumberton Senior High is a major center with 1,935 students, while Purnell Swett High also serves over 1,600 students.

Investing in Homes Near Robeson Schools

Home buyers in Lumberton and Saint Pauls often prioritize proximity to the county’s large high school campuses. With a graduation rate that matches the national average, the area offers a stable educational environment for growing families. Research specific district zones to find homes that offer the best school access in this expansive county.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Robeson County

via RiskByCounty

Robeson County faces significantly above-average risk

Robeson County's composite risk score of 91.09 rates as Relatively Moderate and exceeds the national average substantially. This score reflects exceptional exposure across nearly all natural disaster categories.

North Carolina's highest-risk county profile

At 91.09, Robeson County ranks among the highest-risk counties in North Carolina, well above the state average of 66.72. Its southeastern location places it at the confluence of multiple hazard zones.

State's most vulnerable county region

Robeson County (91.09) edges Pitt County (89.82) as the state's highest-risk area and dramatically exceeds western neighbors like Polk County (36.93) and Person County (41.54). It stands alone in exposure severity across this group.

All major hazards pose serious threats

Tornado risk (96.98), hurricane risk (96.45), wildfire risk (87.79), and earthquake risk (90.81) all exceed 87—making Robeson County vulnerable across the entire hazard spectrum. Flooding (86.39) adds a fifth significant concern.

Comprehensive disaster insurance is critical

Robeson County residents must secure homeowners insurance with premium wind and tornado coverage immediately. Flood insurance is mandatory for any property in or near low-lying areas; consider an umbrella policy given the county's exceptional multi-hazard exposure.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Robeson County

via WeatherByCounty

Consistently Warm Subtropical National Profile

Robeson County’s 62.5°F annual average is well above the national median. This southern North Carolina location is defined by long, warm seasons and very high humidity levels.

Warm Temperatures and Moderate Rainfall

Robeson is over three degrees warmer than the North Carolina average of 59.3°F. While warm, its 48.3 inches of rain is slightly below the state average of 51.5 inches.

Similar to Coastal and Southern Neighbors

Robeson shares the same 44.0°F January average as coastal Pender County. It is slightly cooler than Richmond County but experiences 58 days of extreme heat, far more than the Piedmont counties.

Long Hot Summers and Very Mild Winters

July averages a hot 80.6°F with 58 days of extreme heat annually. Snow is almost never a factor here, with the county averaging only 0.4 inches per year and a mild winter mean of 45.9°F.

Plan for Sustained Summer Heat Waves

With 58 days of heat over 90°F, residents must ensure their HVAC systems are peak-performance ready. Minimal winter preparation is needed, though property owners should monitor the 48 inches of annual rain.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Robeson County

via SoilByCounty

The Coastal Plain's Acidic Base

Robeson County soil is quite acidic with a pH of 4.90, which is lower than the state average of 5.14 and far from the national 6.5 median. This acidity level is common in the Coastal Plain and dictates the county's agricultural character.

Sand-Dominant Texture for Fast Flow

Sand is the dominant texture at 66.0%, the highest among these counties, paired with 21.1% silt and 10.6% clay. This creates a very gritty, loose soil that drains exceptionally fast but may struggle to hold onto nutrients.

High Organic Matter for the Region

Organic matter is a bright spot at 3.70%, which is well above the national 2.0% average, though still below the state's 5.12%. The available water capacity of 0.132 in/in is just under the state average of 0.134 in/in.

Drought-Resistant but High Maintenance

The sand-dominant texture ensures that the soil rarely remains waterlogged, though specific drainage class data is not currently recorded. This makes the land ideal for crops that dislike 'wet feet' but requires careful irrigation.

Extended Growing in Zone 8b

The warm 8b hardiness zone is perfect for heat-loving plants and a very long growing season. Your garden will thrive with blueberries and other acid-loving shrubs that love this sandy, high-organic-matter soil.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Robeson County

via LawnByCounty

Tough Turf Transitions in Robeson

Robeson County's lawn difficulty score of 28.7 makes it one of the harder places in the state to keep a yard. This score is well below both the national 50.0 median and the state average of 40.8. Zone 8b conditions demand a specific strategy focused on heat and sandy soil management.

Long Seasons and Frequent Heatwaves

Robeson deals with 58 days of extreme heat every year, far exceeding the state benchmark of 38. While 48.3 inches of rain is near the ideal level, the 5,332 growing degree days mean turf never stops working. This high-energy environment requires a rigorous fertilization and watering schedule.

Managing Sandy Soil and Low pH

The soil is predominantly sand at 66.0%, which offers excellent drainage but very poor nutrient retention. A pH of 4.90 is dangerously low for most turfgrasses, making lime an absolute requirement for a healthy lawn. Without intervention, grass will struggle to establish deep roots in this acidic, light soil.

Smart Water Use in Dry Sandy Soil

With 31 weeks spent in drought last year, Robeson's sandy soil makes water conservation a top priority. Currently, about 88% of the county is in severe drought, meaning lawns are under extreme stress. Installing rain sensors and using drip irrigation for landscape beds can save significant water.

The Best Warm-Season Choices for 8b

Bermuda and Centipede grass thrive in the sandy, acidic conditions found in Zone 8b. The growing window starts early with a March 24 last frost and lasts until November 10. For the best results, wait until the soil warms up in late April to install new warm-season sod.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Robeson County's county score?
Robeson County, North Carolina has a composite county score of 31.9 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 Robeson County rank among counties in North Carolina?
Robeson County ranks #95 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 Robeson County, North Carolina?
The median annual property tax in Robeson County is $799, with an effective tax rate of 0.90%. This earns Robeson County a tax score of 45.1/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Robeson County?
The median household income in Robeson County, North Carolina is $40,318 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Robeson County earns an income score of 3.1/100 on CountyScore.
Is Robeson County, North Carolina a good place to live?
Robeson County scores 31.9/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #95 in North Carolina. The best way to evaluate Robeson 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 Robeson 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.