Demographics
Clay County is the second fastest growing county in western North Carolina, according to U.S. Census data. And there are plenty of good reasons for our growth: quality education and healthcare, plus a multitude of recreational and leisure activities. Indeed, our quality of life is beyond compare.
Business needs are met by a business-friendly and responsive local government, as well as by a progressive environment that includes a state-of-the-art fiber optics network and multiple broadband communications providers.
Businesses in Clay County can enjoy a high-quality, educated workforce. Clay County Schools were ranked as the #1 "Parent-Friendly" school system in North Carolina in a recent report by the John Locke Foundation in Raleigh. Additionally, student test scores are consistently in the top 10% of all schools in North Carolina, and the system recently was acknowledged as having the third highest graduation rate of all districts in North Carolina. After graduation, students can pursue higher education and technical training close to home, at Young Harris College or at Tri-County Community College.
Healthcare needs are met by nearby location of both Union General Hospital in Blairsville, Georgia, and the Murphy Medical Center in Murphy, North Carolina. A network of quality local physicians treat residents’ routine healthcare issues, and a progressive health department constantly monitors the health of our community to quickly identify and address problems.
It’s easy to live a healthy life here in Clay County thanks to a multitude of fitness resources, such as the Clay County Recreation Center’s gym, tennis courts, walking trail, six softball fields, and a fitness room with cardio and weight training equipment; golf and swimming facilities; horseback riding; Chatuge Shores Golf Course; and even free exercise classes offered at local churches. The Clay County Recreation Park at Lake Chatuge consists of the Clay County Recreation Campground, a playground, lake access for swimming, fishing, and boating, and a portion of a walking trail that begins at the Chatuge Dam. Topping it all off are the miles of hiking and mountain biking trails throughout the area which can lead you on an adventure seven days a week in Clay County’s clean mountain air.