County Profile

Chowan County

Total Population

13,943

Chowan County

Unemployment Rate

4.8%

Chowan County

Percent College Educated

21.7%

Chowan County

Labor Force Participation Rate

52.1%

Chowan County

EXPLORE CHOWAN COUNTY

In 1586 the first English exploration from the Roanoke Island settlement found two Algonquin tribes along the Chowan River. By 1650 the southward region was being settled by the expanding Virginia population. Following the 1663 Carolina Charter the province was divided into three counties one being the “County of Albemarle”. In 1668 the county was divided into precincts, one of which was named Chowan, a Native American word meaning “People of the South”. Farms and plantations were established in Chowan Precinct during the last quarter of the 17th Century. Merchants were living in Chowan as early as the 1690’s. In 1712 a town was established and was later incorporated in 1722 as “Edenton” which remains the seat of Chowan County today.

 Chowan County is the smallest NC County in geographical size (233 sq mi) but not the smallest in population. A 2010 census lists the population of Chowan County at 14,739. Chowan County offers an abundance of historic landmarks, architecture, recreational activities, agricultural and aquatic resources. To learn more about Chowan County, please tour our website which includes many links to governmental services, Economic Development and Tourism.

Visit the county website

Chowan County Census Information

Default Single Topic Component Pack: Population, Age and Gender – Total Population – CHART, 2015-2019, with all available pulldowns.  COMPLETE OVERVIEW information for Chowan County – AS

Pasquotank County

Town of Edenton

Edenton is a vibrant community that welcomes its visitors and residents to share in the beauty of its land, water and the vibrant small southern town.  Established in the late 17th century and incorporated in 1722, it is located on Edenton Bay at the head of the Albemarle Sound, 90 miles southwest of Norfolk, Virginia. A town of 5,000 people, Edenton retains an extensive historic district with a wonderful assemblage of 18th, 19th, and early-20th-century buildings.

Visit the Town of Edenton website