Counties with the most assisted-living facilities in North Carolina

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The United States is facing a caregiving crisis as its aging population increasingly turns to assisted-living facilities.

These facilities, offering 24-hour care with a focus on independence, have become popular among seniors. However, low staffing levels are driving up costs, and in some cases, causing closures. This is creating a care gap at a time when demand is rising.

North Carolina is no exception, with 617 assisted-living facilities, or 35.3 per 100,000 residents over 65.

Some NC counties stand out for their higher rates of facilities:

1. Tyrrell: 131.6 facilities per 100,000 seniors (1 facility)
2. Northampton: 103.4 facilities per 100,000 seniors (5 facilities)
3. Haywood: 83.4 facilities per 100,000 seniors (13 facilities)
4. Wayne: 71.8 facilities per 100,000 seniors (14 facilities)
5. Rutherford: 71.2 facilities per 100,000 seniors (10 facilities)

Despite these numbers, staffing shortages remain a significant issue.