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    OverviewWeatherHousingDemographicsJobsPoliticsCrimeTransportationEducationOutdoorsCulture
    1. North Carolina
    2. Rowan County

    Major cities or towns:

    Salisbury
    China Grove
    Spencer
    Rowan County, North Carolina is a diverse and vibrant community located in the Piedmont region of the state. Geographically, the county features a mix of rolling hills, forests, and fertile farmland, with a temperate climate that experiences four distinct seasons. The population of around 140,000 is predominantly white, with a growing Hispanic/Latino presence. The economy is anchored by manufacturing, healthcare, and education, offering a range of employment opportunities, though the job market can be competitive. Housing is relatively affordable, with a median home price around $175,000, though the cost of living is slightly above the national average. The education system includes well-regarded public schools and several higher education institutions, including Catawba College and Rowan-Cabarrus Community College. Healthcare is provided by Novant Health Rowan Medical Center and other regional facilities. Cultural attractions include the Salisbury Symphony Orchestra, the North Carolina Transportation Museum, and various historic sites. Outdoor recreation abounds, with parks, lakes, and the Yadkin River offering ample opportunities for hiking, fishing, and other activities. The transportation infrastructure includes an airport, Amtrak service, and well-developed road networks. Crime rates are generally lower than state and national averages, contributing to a safe and family-friendly community vibe. Overall, Rowan County offers a balanced quality of life, with a mix of small-town charm, economic opportunities, and access to natural amenities.

    Demographics

    Population

    142K

    Ethnicity %

    White
    71
    Black
    16
    Asian
    1
    Hispanic
    9

    Median Age

    40.2

    Density

    7 of 10

    271 / Mile²

    Avg Family Size

    3.1

    Religious

    48%

    Foreign Born

    8%

    Veterans

    7.6%

    Adult Smokers

    21%

    Adult Obesity

    36%

    Uninsured

    13%

    Excessive Drinking

    18%

    Poverty Rate

    13.4%

    Weather

    Sunlight

    5.7 hours winter dailyMostly sunny

    Summer average temp

    91°F

    Winter max temp

    52°F

    Precipitation

    47 in.

    Snowfall (inches)

    4.4 (avg)

    Drought risk

    Moderate

    Earthquake risk

    Low

    Wildfire risk

    Very Low

    Tornado risk

    High

    Hurricane risk

    Low

    Crime

    Rank: 2.0 of 10

    (crimes per 1,000 people yearly)

    Violent

    1 (0.5)

    Property

    3 (13)

    Assault

    1 (0.2)

    Larceny (theft)

    3 (9)

    Robbery

    1 (0.1)

    Burglary

    3 (3.1)

    Rape

    3 (0.21)

    Auto Theft

    2 (0.6)

    Murder

    1 (0.01)

    Arson

    2 (0.08)

    Driving deaths involving alcohol

    20%

    Politics and Law

    State politics

    Swing (mixed)

    Abortion laws

    Legal through 12th week

    Marijuana laws

    Illegal, but decriminalized

    Gun Laws

    Permit required for concealed carry

    Democrat

    31%

    Republican

    67%

    State Tax Burden

    8.07%

    Cigarette Tax

    $0.45

    Jobs

    Income (per capita)

    $37,769

    Unemployment

    3.9%

    Employment

    57.4%

    Hours worked

    41.7

    Outdoors

    Natural Amenities

    4 / 10

    Water Area

    2.38%

    Near park?

    75%

    Beaches

    Not near the coast

    Mountains

    Less than 1 hour

    Tree Area

    42%

    Housing

    Home Ownership

    67%

    Median Home Price

    $256K

    Average Rent

    $1,315

    Internet over 25mbps

    86%

    Transportation

    Walkability

    26

    Cycling

    18

    Public Transit

    unknown

    Major Airport

    <2 hours

    Average Commute Time

    24

    Education

    K-12 Test Scores

    3 of 10  

    (avg: -0.22)

    College graduates

    19%

    Culture

    Arts scene

    unknown

    Food awards per 100k

    unknown