Clayton, North Carolina, is a vibrant and rapidly expanding town located in Johnston County, just southeast of Raleigh. It's a popular choice for those seeking a balance between a tight-knit community feel and access to the opportunities of the Research Triangle area.
Originally known as Stallings' Station due to a North Carolina Railroad depot established there, the town's name was officially changed to Clayton and incorporated in 1869. Clayton's early economy was built on agriculture, particularly tobacco, watermelon, and cotton. The railroad played a vital role in its development, facilitating trade and connecting it to larger commercial centers. The town’s history is reflected in its preserved downtown district.
A significant historical event in Clayton was the Battle of Morrisville on April 16, 1865, which was the last major cavalry engagement in Sherman's campaign during the Civil War. Negotiations between Union and Confederate forces following this battle led to the largest Confederate surrender of the war.
Clayton offers a strong sense of community, even with its considerable growth. The Clayton Community Center provides a hub for activities, including a fitness room and basketball courts. Parks like Clayton Community Park and Municipal Park provide space for outdoor recreation, featuring walking paths, sports fields, and playgrounds.
The town hosts a variety of events throughout the year, such as the Clayton Harvest Festival, which includes a carnival midway, car show, and diverse activities, vendors, and food. Other events include the Downtown Clayton Concert Series and the Clayton Farm and Community Market.
Clayton's economy has diversified from its agricultural roots to include a range of industries, including biotechnology, manufacturing, and healthcare. Major companies like Grifols, {Link: Novo Nordisk https://www.novonordisk-us.com/}, and Caterpillar have a presence in the area, {Link: YouTube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kxSBAVlKAF0}. The town's population was 28,043 in 2023 with a median household income of $73,348. {Link: Data USA https://datausa.io/profile/geo/clayton-nc} notes that between 2022 and 2023, the population increased by 4.49%.
Education is handled by the Johnston County Public School system. {Link: Carolina School Hub https://www.carolinaschoolhub.com/clayton-nc-schools.cfm} ranks {Link: Riverwood Elementary School https://www.carolinaschoolhub.com/clayton-nc-schools.cfm} and {Link: Powhatan Elementary School https://www.carolinaschoolhub.com/clayton-nc-schools.cfm} at 9 out of 10 CSH stars, while {Link: Clayton High School https://www.carolinaschoolhub.com/clayton-nc-schools.cfm} is at 5 out of 10. Other schools include {Link: Clayton Middle School https://web.claytonchamber.com/Education-Child-Care/Schools?xsort=true}, {Link: Johnston Charter Academy https://web.claytonchamber.com/Education-Child-Care/Schools?xsort=true}, and various private and child care centers.
The cost of living in Clayton is generally lower than the national average, {Link: Payscale https://www.payscale.com/cost-of-living-calculator/North-Carolina-Clayton} notes an overall cost of living 8% lower than the national average. Housing expenses are particularly affordable, being 29% lower than the national average according to {Link: Payscale https://www.payscale.com/cost-of-living-calculator/North-Carolina-Clayton}. The median property value in 2023 was $292,400. {Link: Raleigh Realty https://raleighrealty.com/blog/moving-to-clayton} reports an overall cost of living 8% lower than the national average and an average cost per square foot of $165. Utilities and transportation costs are also lower than the national average, according to {Link: Payscale https://www.payscale.com/cost-of-living-calculator/North-Carolina-Clayton}.