Is Dunn Safe, Pros and cons of living in Dunn
Dunn, North Carolina, offers a unique blend of small-town charm and convenient access to larger urban centers, making it an appealing option for those seeking a quieter pace of life without sacrificing proximity to amenities. The city is situated in Harnett County, positioning it within reasonable commuting distance to Fayetteville and Raleigh.
With a population of approximately 8,559 residents, Dunn provides a close-knit community atmosphere. The city has experienced modest population growth in recent years, indicating a steady interest in its offerings. This growth, combined with its historical charm and civic involvement, has earned Dunn recognition as an All-America City recipient on two occasions.
Is it Safe to Live in Dunn?
Dunn’s crime rates are a significant concern for potential residents. The city experiences a crime rate that is considerably higher than both the national and state averages. In terms of violent crime, Dunn has a rate of 904 per 100,000 people, placing it in the bottom 10% of U.S. cities and resulting in a 1 in 111 chance of being a victim (AreaVibes). Property crime rates are also elevated, with 5,108 incidents per 100,000 residents, which is 190.2% higher than the national average (AreaVibes).
These statistics indicate that Dunn has a higher overall crime rate, with 1.42 daily incidents on average, encompassing both violent and property crimes. The chance of being a victim of any crime in Dunn is approximately 1 in 17 (AreaVibes). While some neighborhoods, particularly in the southeast part of the city, are considered safer, the overall safety profile requires careful consideration (AreaVibes).
Housing Costs and Availability
The housing market in Dunn presents an attractive proposition for buyers and renters alike, largely due to its affordability. The median home price in Dunn was $222,000 as of March 2026, a figure that is notably lower than the national average (Redfin). This price point represents an 18.7% increase compared to the previous year, indicating some market appreciation.
The homeownership rate in Dunn is around 54% (Data USA). For those considering renting, the median rent is approximately $1,324 per month as of March 2026, which is below the national average (Zillow). This affordability extends to the median property value, which was $193,900 in 2024, a figure that is 0.583 times smaller than the national average (Data USA).
The Job Market and Economy
Dunn’s job market is characterized by a steady presence in key industries, including manufacturing, healthcare, logistics, retail, and education. Major employers in the area include Harnett County Schools, Godwin Manufacturing, ADUSA Distribution, and Rooms To Go (Fayetteville). The average salary in Dunn is around $43,000 annually, or $20.67 per hour (Zippia).
However, other sources indicate a higher average salary for jobs in Dunn, North Carolina, at approximately $60,258 per year or $29 per hour (ERI SalaryExpert). A significant portion of the workforce commutes to nearby employment centers like Raleigh or Fort Bragg, contributing to a local unemployment rate that hovers around 3.5 percent (Fayetteville).
Demographics and Diversity
Dunn’s population is approximately 8,559, with a diverse racial and ethnic makeup. White residents constitute about 50.4% of the population, followed by Black or African American residents at 33.9%. Hispanic or Latino individuals make up approximately 11.5% of the population, with smaller percentages identifying as Asian, Native American, or multiracial (Census Dots). This demographic composition is considered more diverse than the state of North Carolina overall (Census Dots).
The median age in Dunn is around 43.2 years, with a slightly higher proportion of females (56%) compared to males (44%) (World Population Review). A notable aspect of the demographics is the poverty rate, which stands at 19.7%, a figure higher than the national average (Data USA).
Climate and Weather
Dunn experiences a climate characterized by hot, muggy summers and short, cool winters. The average annual temperature hovers around 72.4°F, with July being the warmest month, averaging a high of 90.1°F and a low of 70.2°F (Dunn Weather Records). January is the coldest month, with an average low of 31.6°F and a high of 52.8°F (Dunn Weather Records).
Precipitation is relatively evenly distributed throughout the year, with July typically being the wettest month, receiving about 6.0 inches of rain. The drier season spans from September to May, with November being the driest month (Dunn Weather Records). Snowfall is minimal, with an average annual accumulation of 1.9 inches, primarily occurring in December and January (Dunn Weather Records).
Education and School Ratings
The public school system in Dunn, NC, presents a mixed picture. On average, schools in Dunn have a proficiency score of 45% in math and 45% in reading, which is below the North Carolina state averages (Niche). The average school ranking is 4 out of 10, placing them in the bottom 50% of North Carolina public schools (Niche).
Among the schools, Harnett County Early College, Plain View Elementary School, and Midway Middle School are noted as top performers (Niche). However, Dunn Elementary School, for instance, has below-average performance, with 39% of students proficient in math and 30% in reading (Dunn Elementary). The student body is diverse, with a significant minority enrollment, predominantly Hispanic (Niche).
Major Employers and Economic Drivers
The economic landscape of Dunn is supported by several key industries, including manufacturing, healthcare, logistics, and retail. Significant employers that contribute to the local economy are Harnett County Schools, Godwin Manufacturing, ADUSA Distribution, and Rooms To Go (Fayetteville). These organizations provide a substantial number of job opportunities within the city and surrounding areas.
The median household income in Dunn is approximately $46,830 (World Population Review), with an average salary for jobs in the city around $60,258 per year (ERI SalaryExpert). Many residents also commute to larger employment hubs like Raleigh and Fayetteville, indicating a broader regional economic influence on Dunn’s job market.
Cost of Living
Dunn offers a cost of living that is generally lower than the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and families. The overall cost of living index is reported at 93, meaning it is 7% lower than the national average (AreaVibes). This affordability is particularly evident in housing costs, which are 26.6% lower than the national average (AreaVibes).
While some sources indicate Dunn’s cost of living is 2% higher than the U.S. national average, this is often dependent on the specific metrics used and the year of the report (Salary.com). However, in comparison to North Carolina’s average, Dunn is typically more affordable, with housing costs being a significant contributing factor (AreaVibes, Salary.com).