Clayton is the fastest grown town in Johnston County. In 2000 the census estimated a population of 6,973. The estimated population, in 2003, was 11,293. Clayton’s proximity to Raleigh and the world-famous Research Triangle Park make it a hot spot for relocation.
Clayton (5.4 miles in area) is a smaller town in both size and amenities, much like Holly Springs. It’s shopping and activities within the city are limited. But, again, proximity to Raleigh and several larger neighboring cities make it a draw.
Location
Clayton is near two interstate highways, I-40 and I-95 on the western edge of Johnston County (near Wake County). Clayton is 15 minutes from Raleigh, 30 from Research Triangle Park, 35 minutes from Durham and 2-3 hours from the beach.
The latitude of Clayton is 35.650N. The longitude is -78.456W. Elevation is 341 feet.
History
The town of Clayton, named for Senator John Middleton Clayton (1796-1856) from Delaware, was built on the road cut by Governor Tryon's troops as they marched from New Bern to Hillsborough against the regulators around 1770.
The community was first known as Stallings Station, a depot for the North Carolina Railroad in the home of Sarah Stallings. The first post office was located just southeast of the present site, under the name of Gulley's Store. On January 30, 1856, the name was offically changed to Clayton named for a senator from Delaware.
The town of Clayton was incorported in 1869. Today it's a thriving community and the second largest town in Johnston County, North Carolina.
Education
Clayton’s public schools are in the Johnston County School system. Clayton has six elementary, three middle, two high and one private school. Included among those are: Cooper Elementary, West Clayton Elementary, Cleveland Elementary, East Clayton Elementary, Riverwood Elementary, River Dell Elementary, Clayton Middle, Academy of Hope (private for middle and high school), Riverwood Middle and Clayton High School.
Taxes
If you live in the corporate limits of Clayton, your tax rate is 54 cents per $100 of assessed valuation plus the county rate of 78 cents per $100, for a total tax of $1.32 per $100 in 2007.
Demographics
The 2000 census revealed:
• The median age for residents was 34
• The median household income was $44,750 (compared to $41,994 US)
• The Cities median per capita income was $22,332
In 2000, population of Clayton was made up of 71.6 percent white residents, 20% black or African American, .2% American Indian or Alaska native, .9% Asian, 0% Native Hawaiian and other Pacific islander, 6.3% other race, 1.1% two or more races and 10.1% Hispanic or Latino.
Restaurant & Shopping
Although one of the smaller towns in the Raleigh metro area, Clayton does have a Wal-mart and several gas stations, and restaurants. There’s a Subway, Lonestar Steakhouse, Radio Shack, Blockbuster Video, Wendy's and more. There is a 1/2 mile stretch along US 70 in Clayton lined with shopping: Lowes Foods, Arby's, McDonald's, Bojangles, Baskin Robbins / Dunkin Donuts, Taco Bell/KFC, Jersey Mike's, Quiznos, Dairy Queen, McKinley's Grill and Bar, Dollar Tree and a few more. There are also a variety of different local shops in downtown Clayton including an appliance shop, furniture shop, day care and a women’s boutique.
Annual Events
Clayton has a couple annual events for residents’ and visitors’ entertainment, including the Annual Clayton Art Faire Artists Competition and the Harvest Festival.
Located downtown Clayton, the Annual Harvest Festival is a week-long event in the late summer/early fall with carnival rides fair food and more! In 2006, the festival drew about 18,000 people to the downtown area, and vendors come from as far away as New York and the Midwest to participate.
Employment
A few bio-pharmaceutical companies call Clayton home, including Bayer Inc., Fresenius Kabi, and Novo Nordisk. Caterpillar and Winn-Dixie Raleigh, Inc., are also major employers in the Clayton area.
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