Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Pembroke, NC
Considering a move to Pembroke, NC? With a small-town population of just under 3,000, Pembroke offers affordable living—median home prices are around $107,000 and average rent is just $690. The area features a strong Native American heritage, a youthful vibe thanks to UNC Pembroke, and a comfortable climate with 62% sunny days yearly. Commutes are short at 22 minutes, and while crime rates are higher than average, the town boasts a close-knit community, access to healthcare in nearby Lumberton, and local educational options from elementary to university.
Demographics - Pembroke, NC
Demographics - Pembroke, NC
Pembroke, NC is a small town of about 2,900 residents, notable for its youthful median age of 25.6 and a strong Native American presence making up nearly 60% of the population. The community is moderately dense, and just under 8% of residents speak a language other than English at home. Its diverse makeup and younger demographic contribute to a vibrant local culture.
Population:
2,903
Density:
1,225 per sq mi
Median Age:
25.6
Gender Ratio:
88 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
7.6%

Ethnic Composition
White:
7.2%
Black:
24.5%
Asian:
0.8%
Others:
8.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Pembroke, NC?
Living in Pembroke is highly affordable, with a median home value of $107,000 and average rent at $690. The cost of living index is well below the national average, making it a budget-friendly place for both renters and homeowners. Utilities and basic expenses remain reasonable, offering financial ease for residents.
Median House Value:
$107,000
Gross Rent:
$690
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$115
Auto Insurance:
$1,250
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,030
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$330
State Taxes:
Low:
5.25%
|
High:
5.25%
Cost Of Living Index:
79.1
Grocery:
94.2
Housing:
38.5
Utilities:
99.0
Transportation:
81.4
Health Care:
103.5
Miscellaneous:
92.0
Crime
Is Pembroke, NC a safe place to live?
Pembroke experiences higher-than-average crime rates, with a 1 in 270 chance of violent crime and 1 in 44 chance of property crime. While the town is close-knit, new residents should be mindful of their surroundings and take standard safety precautions. Community initiatives and awareness can help mitigate local crime concerns.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
370
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,250
Crime Index:
2,620
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 270
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 44
Weather
What is the weather like in Pembroke, NC year-round?
Pembroke enjoys a mild climate, with warm summers reaching up to 90°F and winters rarely dipping below 33°F. The area receives about 47 inches of rainfall annually and sees sunshine 62% of the year, providing plenty of pleasant days for outdoor activities. Seasonal changes are gentle, making it comfortable year-round.

Winter
Min:
33°F
Max:
53°F

Spring
Min:
49°F
Max:
75°F

Summer
Min:
69°F
Max:
90°F

Fall
Min:
52°F
Max:
76°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
47.0 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
62%
Neighbors
The local community is close-knit but faces economic challenges, with a median household income of $34,300 and about one-third of residents living below the poverty line. Education attainment is solid, with over 81% holding a high school diploma or higher, and commutes are short at roughly 22 minutes. Most residents drive, with limited use of public transportation.
Median Income:
$22,400
Household Income:
$34,300
Family Income:
$42,000
Per Capita Income:
$14,200
Income Male:
$28,900
Income Female:
$23,600
Poverty Rate:
32.5%
Non English Speakers:
7.6%
Rent:
$690
Unemployment Rate:
7.5%
Public Transport Usage:
0.8%
Commute Time:
21.8 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
81.3%
Bachelors or More:
17.2%
Education
How are the schools in Pembroke, NC?
Pembroke offers comprehensive educational opportunities, including public schools like Pembroke Elementary and Purnell Swett High, as well as private options and the University of North Carolina at Pembroke. Student-teacher ratios are favorable, supporting personalized learning. The presence of a university brings a vibrant academic atmosphere to the town.

Public Schools
Name:
Pembroke Elementary School
Street:
2512 Union Chapel Rd
Phone:
910-521-4204
Students:
780
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.6
Name:
Purnell Swett High School
Street:
11344 Deep Branch Rd
Phone:
910-522-4770
Students:
1,500
Student Teacher Ratio:
16.5

Private Schools
Name:
Covenant Christian Academy
Street:
600 N Walnut St
Phone:
910-521-4242
Students:
110

Colleges
Name:
University of North Carolina at Pembroke
City:
Pembroke
State:
NC
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
8,400
Healthcare
Pembroke residents have access to major healthcare services at Southeastern Regional Medical Center in nearby Lumberton. The town has 1.6 physicians per 1,000 people and 83% health insurance coverage, ensuring basic medical needs are met. Healthcare quality is reliable, with emergency services readily available within a short drive.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Southeastern Regional Medical Center
Address:
300 W 27th St, Lumberton, NC 28358
Phone:
(910) 671-5000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.6
Health Insurance Coverage:
83.0%
Health Care Index:
61.5
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Pembroke, NC?
The Pembroke housing market is affordable, with median home prices at $107,000 and a majority of homes owner-occupied. Rental options are available, with average two-bedroom rents at $690 and a relatively low vacancy rate. The market is stable, with modest home appreciation and minimal foreclosure activity.
Median Home Price:
$107,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$690
Owner Occupied Rate:
58.0%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
8.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.6%
New Construction Rate:
1.3%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.9%
DMV Information
Residents can access DMV services through the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles in nearby Lumberton, just a short drive from Pembroke. The local branch offers standard vehicle registration, licensing, and driver services. Up-to-date information and resources can be found on the state DMV website.
State:
North Carolina
Department:
North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles
Address:
307 E. Main St, Lumberton, NC 28358
Phone:
1-919-715-7000
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.