Is Smithfield Safe, Pros and cons of living in Smithfield

Smithfield, North Carolina, offers a blend of small-town charm and convenient access to larger metropolitan areas, making it a compelling choice for those seeking a balanced lifestyle. Situated in Johnston County, this town provides a distinct character while benefiting from its proximity to the Research Triangle region, including Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill. This strategic location allows residents to enjoy a more relaxed pace of life without sacrificing opportunities for employment, education, and recreation. Smithfield is known for its historic downtown district, annual Ham & Yam Festival, and the natural beauty of the Neuse River, contributing to its appeal as a place to settle down.

The town’s identity is shaped by its history, its connection to the agricultural heritage of North Carolina, and its ongoing development as a growing community. With a population that has seen an increase in recent years, Smithfield is experiencing a transition that balances its traditional roots with modern amenities and expanding economic prospects. This dynamic makes it an interesting place to explore for potential residents considering a move to a community that offers both a sense of belonging and access to a wider range of resources.

Is it Safe to Live in Smithfield?

Smithfield, North Carolina, presents a mixed safety profile, with certain aspects indicating a higher risk than the national average. The overall crime rate in Smithfield is reported to be considerably higher than the national average, with a chance of becoming a victim of either violent or property crime at 1 in 77 (according to NeighborhoodScout). This places Smithfield as not one of the safest communities in America and higher than 73% of cities and towns in Virginia.

Breaking down the crime statistics, violent crime in Smithfield occurs at a rate higher than in most communities of all population sizes in America. The chance of becoming a victim of a violent crime is 1 in 565, equating to a rate of 2 per one thousand inhabitants (according to NeighborhoodScout). Property crime also presents a concern, with a rate of 11 per one thousand population, making it an above-average chance of victimization for crimes such as motor vehicle theft, arson, larceny, and burglary. Your chance of becoming a victim of these crimes in Smithfield is 1 in 108 (according to NeighborhoodScout).

Housing and Cost of Living

Housing Market Overview

The housing market in Smithfield, North Carolina, has experienced significant appreciation in recent times. In March 2026, home prices in Smithfield were up 15.4% compared to the previous year, with a median sale price of $308,000 (as reported by Redfin). This indicates a competitive market, with homes selling faster than in the previous year, taking an average of 131 days on the market compared to 57 days (as reported by Redfin).

The median sale price per square foot in Smithfield was $157 as of March 2026, showing a slight decrease of 1.9% from the previous year (as reported by Redfin). While the market has seen price increases, it’s important to note that the number of homes sold in March 2026 decreased by 30% compared to the previous year, with 19 homes sold versus 26 (as reported by Redfin).

Rental Market

For those considering renting, Smithfield, NC, offers a more affordable option compared to the national average. As of May 2026, the average rent in Smithfield is $668 per month, which is 59% lower than the national average rent of $1,642 per month (as reported by Apartments.com). This makes renting in Smithfield a more budget-friendly choice than in many other U.S. cities.

Specifically, a studio apartment averages around $668 per month, a one-bedroom apartment is approximately $668 per month, and a two-bedroom apartment costs about $962 per month (as reported by Apartments.com). For a three-bedroom rental, the cost could be $1,782 or more per month (as reported by Apartments.com). To comfortably afford rent in Smithfield, with an average rent of $668, an individual would need to earn about $2,226 per month or $26,712 per year (as reported by Apartments.com).

Overall Cost of Living

Smithfield, North Carolina, offers a cost of living that is generally lower than the national average. The overall cost of living in Smithfield is 11% less than the national average (as reported by ERI Economic Research Institute). This affordability extends to various aspects of daily life, including housing, food, transportation, and utilities.

Housing costs in Smithfield are 11.3% lower than the national average, with an average monthly rent of $1,065 for a single person and $1,952 for a family of four (as reported by Salary.com). Food expenses are also notably lower, running 22.4% below the national average, costing approximately $310 monthly for an individual and $1,009 for a family (as reported by Salary.com). Energy, transportation, and healthcare costs are also more economical, contributing to Smithfield’s status as one of America’s least expensive cities.

Job Market and Economy

Major Employers

Smithfield, North Carolina, is home to several significant employers that contribute to its economic landscape. Johnston Memorial Hospital Corporation is a major healthcare provider in the region, offering a range of services including behavioral health, oncology, and pediatrics (as reported by Zippia). Walmart is also a prominent employer, known for its extensive retail operations and large workforce.

Other key employers include Johnston Community College, which plays a vital role in workforce development and education, and AAF Flanders, a manufacturer of air filters and filtration systems. Caterpillar, a global leader in construction and mining equipment, also has a presence, contributing to the industrial sector. The presence of these diverse companies provides a range of employment opportunities across various sectors.

Average Salary and Unemployment

The average salary in Smithfield, NC, is approximately $67,461 per year, or $32 per hour (as reported by ERI Economic Research Institute). This figure reflects the general earning potential within the area. The median household income in Smithfield was reported as $37,827 (as reported by ERI Economic Research Institute).

The unemployment rate in Smithfield, RI, is currently 92.80% employment rate, meaning the unemployment rate is 7.2% (as reported by BestNeighborhood.org). This indicates a relatively stable job market for the region. For Smithfield, NC, the employed population was 4,667 in 2024, showing a 16.4% year-over-year growth (as reported by Data USA).

Climate and Environment

Temperature and Precipitation

Smithfield, North Carolina, experiences a temperate climate with distinct seasons. The average maximum temperature in July reaches approximately 90.2°F, while the average minimum temperature in January is around 30.8°F (according to NOAA data). This means summers are typically warm to hot, and winters are generally mild.

Precipitation is distributed relatively evenly throughout the year, with an average annual rainfall of about 47.34 inches (according to NOAA data). The wettest months tend to be July and August, with average precipitation around 5.70 and 4.94 inches, respectively. Snowfall is minimal, with an average of only about 3.5 inches per year, mostly occurring in January and February (according to NOAA data).

Environmental Factors

Smithfield’s environment is characterized by its location in eastern North Carolina, with proximity to the Neuse River contributing to its natural landscape. The town offers greenways for recreation, such as the Buffalo Creek Greenway, providing residents with opportunities for outdoor activities. The climate supports a variety of plant and animal life typical of the southeastern United States.

The area’s climate is influenced by its position away from major coastal bodies of water, leading to more continental weather patterns. While generally pleasant, the region can experience severe weather events, including thunderstorms and occasional tropical systems, which are monitored by the National Weather Service. These climatic factors shape the local environment and influence outdoor activities and agriculture.

Education and Demographics

School Ratings

The public school system in Smithfield, NC, is managed by Johnston County Schools, which serves a large student population. This district is rated as above average, with 57% of students proficient in math and 53% in reading, according to Niche. The student-teacher ratio within the district is 15 to 1.

Within Smithfield, Smithfield-Selma High School has a B-minus overall Niche grade, with 36% of students proficient in math and 49% in reading. Johnston County Early College Academy, a top-rated school serving Smithfield, holds an A+ rating with a 4.39 out of 5 stars on Niche. Other highly regarded schools in the vicinity include Johnston Charter Academy and Johnston County Schools Career Technical.

Demographics

Smithfield, North Carolina, has a population of approximately 12,116 residents, showing an increase from the 2020 Census (according to Census Dots). The racial makeup of the town is predominantly White, accounting for 59.5% of the population. Black or African American residents make up 23.1%, Hispanic residents are 13.8%, and Asian residents constitute 1.9% of the population (according to Census Dots).

The median age in Smithfield was 44.9 years in 2024 (as reported by Data USA). The population is diverse, with residents identifying across various racial and ethnic groups. The town’s demographic profile reflects a blend of long-standing communities and newer residents, contributing to its evolving social fabric.

Pros and Cons of Living in Smithfield

Pros

Smithfield offers a significantly lower cost of living compared to national averages, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and families (as reported by ERI Economic Research Institute). The housing market is also more affordable, with median home prices and rent significantly below those in major metropolitan areas (as reported by Redfin and Apartments.com). This affordability extends to daily expenses like food and utilities, further enhancing the financial appeal of living in Smithfield.

The town boasts a growing job market with major employers like Walmart and Johnston Memorial Hospital Corporation, providing diverse employment opportunities (as reported by Zippia). Its location near the Research Triangle area offers convenient access to larger cities for expanded career and recreational options. Smithfield’s climate is generally mild, with warm summers and cool winters, and ample precipitation throughout the year, supporting outdoor activities and a green environment (according to NOAA data).

Cons

Crime rates in Smithfield are a notable concern, with both violent and property crime rates reported as higher than the national average (according to NeighborhoodScout). This suggests that residents should exercise caution and be aware of their surroundings. The median home price, while lower than in major metros, has seen a significant increase, indicating a competitive housing market that may pose challenges for some buyers (as reported by Redfin).

While the cost of living is lower than the national average, it is slightly higher than the North Carolina state average (as reported by Raleigh Realty). The average salary in Smithfield is also lower than in many other areas, which may require careful financial planning for those relocating from higher-paying regions (as reported by ERI Economic Research Institute). The town’s demographic diversity is lower than the state average, which might be a consideration for some individuals seeking a more varied community.