Small river city in North Carolina’s southern coastal plains
Named after the blackwater Lumber River that flows through its heart, Lumberton is trying to capitalize on the natural asset linked to the city’s beginnings. “Back in the day, they’d use the river to transport lumber,” says Sarah Beth Ward, Lumberton’s Downtown Development Coordinator, who says the river is at the center of a redevelopment plan for the city center. “We’re one of the few North Carolina cities that has a river running through its downtown.”
The city is a popular pitstop for road travelers as it’s right along Interstate 95. “It’s a great location because of how close we are to the major cities,” says Ward, who describes the community as humble and diverse. “A lot of people that live here are in retirement age, and they all have family spread out across the state.” With UNC Health Southeastern in town, healthcare is the city’s top industry.
Lumberton got its start in the late 1700s as a shipping point for lumber being guided down the river to Georgetown, SC.
This was this site of the original landing on the Lumber River when Lumberton got its start over 200 years ago.
I-95 runs north-south through Lumberton and I-74 passes the city on its south side for easy east-west travel.
Robeson County is served by a single hospital, UNC Health Southeastern, based in Lumberton.
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Low home prices and hurricane recovery
The median price for a single-family home in Lumberton is $215,000, roughly half the national median. Chelsea Biggs, a Century 21 Real Estate broker and manager of Biggs Park Mall, says the housing market in Lumberton is not as competitive as Raleigh or along the Carolina coast. “When a home does come up on the north side of Lumberton, it can be competitive. Otherwise, it’s pretty easy to get a house here.” Homes primarily rest on dense tree-shaded blocks, but lots are more spacious in the city’s northern end. Architectural styles include Victorian, Colonial Revival and ranch-style homes.
Hurricanes are a reality of living in North Carolina. In 2016 and 2018, Hurricanes Matthew and Florence caused devastating damage in Lumberton when the Lumber River swelled to record levels. Florence ravaged the southern and western parts of the city, leading to an exodus. It’s one of the reasons why Lumberton’s population has been declining. The city of roughly 19,000 has since invested in storm response and preparedness, including constructing a 13-foot berm to protect the water treatment plant that flooded after Matthew.
Midcentury style homes are popular options in neighborhoods on the north side of Lumberton.
Downtown Lumberton holds a variety of older styled homes like this 2-story colonial.
Smaller ranch homes in Lumberton can be found on the south side of town.
A 13 foot dike runs to the north of the water treatment plant in Lumberton as a result of terrible flooding from recent hurricanes - it serves double duty as a greenway trail.
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Restoring the Lumberton Commercial Historic District
National retailers fill shopping centers lining Interstate 95 and Fayetteville Road. Biggs Park Mall offers around 30 name-brand stores. Several museums and the Robeson County Courthouse anchor Downtown Lumberton. This laid-back city center featuring thrift and bookstores, a candy café and local restaurants serving international and American cuisine is being revitalized. “Downtown Lumberton is currently going through it,” Ward says. “We still have a lot of dilapidated buildings, but we also have the most original buildings in the state. It’s all about perspective.” Ward adds that a façade grant program is restoring historic storefronts.
Shoppers can find what they're looking for at Biggs Park Mall in Lumberton.
The Robeson County Courthouse in Lumberton was originally constructed in 1908.
The Potato Barn in Downtown Lumberton sits across from the courthouse on Elm Street.
Lumberton saw a drastic decline in population during the past 10 years, but is starting to experience a resurgence.
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Lumberton’s creative spirit, The Rumba on the Lumber
The city’s art scene brings vibrancy to the downtown area. It serves as the home base for the Robeson County Arts Council, which has a gallery and organizes workshops and art-focused events like the River Voices Concert Series. The Carolina Civic Center Historic Theater draws local talent from around the region to perform in productions, such as the annual Robeson County Christmas Show. When construction is complete in the summer of 2025, this Italian Renaissance-style building from the 1920s will feature a new annex.
The city’s biggest annual event is The Rumba on the Lumber, a family-friendly weekend festival celebrating the best of Lumberton’s food, crafts, and music each March. Along with a chili cook-off, shopping at vendors and romping around a kid’s zone, the event’s big draw is the UNC Health 5K/10K races, organized by the Robeson Road Runners. “We are a runner-friendly community. They have runs downtown all the time,” Ward says.
Creativity is encouraged for those who live in Lumberton.
Lumberton has a population of around 20,000 people and is the county seat of Robeson County.
Located in the heart of historic downtown Lumberton, the Carolina Civic Center facility opened its doors for the first time on June 18, 1928 as a vaudeville and silent film house.
The River Walk in Lumberton is a paved pedestrian/bicycle trail with scenic views of the Lumber River that starts at Luther Britt Park.
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Recreation along the Lumber River, plans for the Lumberton Loop
The Lumber River divides the city into northern and southern halves and offers a variety of recreation, from fishing for catfish and bass to canoeing and kayaking. James L. Stephens Memorial Park is often used to access the water, while The Riverwalk provides a paved path paralleling the densely forested banks. Lumber River State Park’s Princess Ann Access has camping and hiking trails roughly 20 miles south of the city.
Large community green spaces and pocket parks can be found throughout Lumberton. Several activity centers have programming for all ages. A new accessible playground is now open at Dr. Raymond B. Pennington Athletic Complex, and the Lumberton Loop, an 8-mile trail around the city, is in the planning stages.
James L. Stephens Memorial Park is a good place to access the Lumber River from downtown Lumberton.
The Lumber River offers excellent boating, fishing and outdoor fun at the Lumber River State Park near Lumberton.
Luther Britt Park is a 142-acre park in Lumberton with trails around 2 lakes, plus playground equipment & picnic facilities.
The Dr Raymond B Pennington Athletic Complex in Lumberton has a brand new All Inclusive playground.
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Public Schools of Robeson County and a community college in town
Public Schools of Robeson County serves Lumberton and receives a C-plus overall rating from Niche. The district has more than 21,000 students across 40 schools. PSRC Early College High School at Robeson Community College earns an A rating. Students can graduate with a diploma and an associate’s degree. RCC is a two-year community college on the city’s north side with less than 2,000 students.
Robeson Community College is a public institution in Lumberton, North Carolina with an enrollment of over 1,800 students.
Public Schools of Robeson County with offices in Lumberton serves over 21,000 students at 40 schools.
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Quick access to Interstate 95
Interstate 95, a major north-south route along the East Coast, hugs the city as it heads into South Carolina. The border is about 20 miles away. I-95 heads north to Fayetteville, which hosts the Fort Bragg military installation. U.S. Route 74 heads roughly 80 miles east to the port city of Wilmington, home to Wilmington International Airport. Lumberton Regional Airport is for general aviation and does not offer commercial flights. While there’s no city bus service, Lumberton does have a Greyhound Bus Station.
Violent and property crime rates increase in Robeson County
Crime statistics specific to Lumberton are not readily available. However, according to the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation’s Crime In North Carolina 2023 report, crime is increasing in Robeson County. Data shows that the violent crime rate increased by nearly 9% from 2022 to 2023, while the property crime rate rose by less than 2%.
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GreatSchools:
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Dr Raymond B Pennington Athletic Complex (formerly Northeast Park)
Luther Britt Park
Lumberton Bicentennial Park
Robeson Recreation & Park Comm
Downtown Lumberton Plaza Fountain
Stephen's Park
Lumberton Housing Trends
On average, homes in Lumberton, NC sell after 19 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Lumberton, NC over the last 12 months is $367,500, up 5% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Priced to Sell! Prime .29-acre residential lot; positioned near I-95 corridor and upcoming large-scale Lumbee Tribe development, which may include a resort, casino, and entertainment hub (pending approvals). Strong potential for future growth, and job creation. Build now or make an investment hold in an area with ongoing demand. Surrounded by established homes and mature trees offering natural
Solid tract of rural land with nearly 3/4 of a mile of road frontage, 31.5 acres of active agriculture and balance in 15 year old pine forest. Fantastic tract of land for either development, homesteading, or hunting/farming with exquisite opportunities for deer, bobwhite quail, dove, and wild turkey! Few tracts of land become available with the characteristics this tract has. From fertile
Reduced!!! Beautiful sandy tract of land right along the Interstate 95 corridor along US 74 ALT in a fast growing area of Robeson County, North Carolina. Tract contains over 1,300 feet of highway road frontage along the heavily-traveled US 74 ALT highway and within sight of Interstate 95. Excellent opportunity along this highly visible tract along the Interstate that could be a real jewel for
Located along Lenards Drive in eastern Robeson County, the Robeson 701 Tract represents a well-positioned, mid-sized timberland asset with long-term productivity andrecreational upside. The tract totals approximately 73% high, usable acreage, a rare characteristic in this region, offering flexibility for future timber management, potentialrural development, or wildlife-based
This 102.02-acre prime commercial property is available for the first time in 70 years and is located at one of the best I-95 locations in the two Carolinas. Exit 22 is the premier exit off I-95 in North Carolina with shopping, hotels, restaurants, medical facilities, car dealerships and Robeson Community College. With 56,000 cars passing the property daily this property provides great visibility
Tom PercivalPercival Land & Timber Consultants, Inc.
Prime tract of fertile farmland with over 1,880 feet of road frontage along paved road with 31 acres of open field and the balance in woodlands adjacent to the headwaters of Hog Swamp with a solid timber component throughout. Perfect tract of land for either development or homesteading with solid opportunities for ducks, deer, bobwhite quail, dove, and wild turkey! Located in southern
Great retreat home, on Tarheel Road, about 5 miles east of Lumberton, Home has almost 2 acres of land in a quiet rural setting. The Home has custom renovations, such as upgraded trim, new carpet, this home is very nice and ready to move in. It also has an older home that could be renovated or demolished on this property. Farm land is behind the home. Come see and make us an offer---Priced to sell
Beautiful home located in the great neighborhood of Tanglewood. This brick home has been meticulously maintained and cared for. The yard is absolutely stunning with beautiful azaleas, fencing and a back yard gated area perfect for pets. The hardwood flooring throughout the home is very nice and provides the feel of quality to the home. The location is near the hospital and not too far from
Set on approximately 7.36 acres, 6290 Regan Church Road offers the space and character of a farmhouse with thoughtful updates throughout. This 5-bedroom, 2.5-bath home features an updated exterior with vinyl and Hardie plank siding, Cali bamboo flooring, neutral interior paint, crown molding, and plenty of room both inside and out. The renovated kitchen is a standout with custom cabinetry, quartz
Cleared flat lot located in the city and close to everything. Shopping, restaurants, I95 and Hwy 74 not far, as well as downtown Lumberton. Purchase this property to add to your land portfolio or potentially build your home or investment property on. Currently located in a well-established subdivision and ready for your plans. Buyer to confirm utilities and zoning for their intended project use.
NEW PRICE! APPRAISED AT $220,000 • HOME INSPECTION COMPLETED • MOVE-IN READY • EASY TO SHOW - Ideally positioned on a desirable corner lot, this beautifully maintained home showcases timeless hardwood floors, a freshly painted interior that creates a bright and inviting atmosphere and an irrigation system that guarantees a picture perfect yard all year round. Thoughtful updates—including a newer
Windsor Crossing Apartments in Lumberton, NC, offers thoughtfully designed homes exclusively for residents aged 55 and over. Nestled in a peaceful neighborhood ideal for walking, Windsor Crossing is conveniently located within half a mile of grocery stores, restaurants, retail shops, the local hospital, and medical facilities. Residents enjoy spacious two-bedroom apartments and modern amenities
Property Id: 1736693 Single wide home perfect for 1 or 2 people. House rent, lot rent and water are include in monthly rent. Deposit and rent are non negotiable. One year lease required. Absolutely no smoking and no pets.
Property Id: 2793463 Come check out this lovely home that's been freshly renovated. This home is located in Jamestown Mobile Home Park in Lumberton, North Carolina Available for rent and rent to own options. Lot rent is paid by owner.
Property Id: 1809791 3 Bed / 2 Bath Single Family Home. Currently being remolded. Home is in a community park, miles away from town and school district. More Photos will be posted as the remodel is completed. There are only a few rules: -No pets -No smoking indoors -Rent is due on the 1st & paid through the app. Please keep all communication in the app. Fill
Four-bedroom two bath home. Located in quite community.Beautiful Home Coming Soon!! HOME IS FOR SALE or RENT! Sale Price $39,000.00 Rental Price $1,300.00Section 8 not accepted.Move in fees required:Application fee $50.00 per person over 18Lease signing fee $100.00Security Deposit $1,300.00 Or Lot Security Deposit 595.00First Month Rent $199Pet Fee
New Home!! Discover your perfect retreat in the heart of Lumberton, NC! This charming 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home offers a blend of comfort and modern living, making it an ideal choice for anyone seeking a serene environment. Step inside to find a spacious open floor plan that welcomes an abundance of natural light, highlighting the elegant finishes and thoughtful design throughout. The
PROPERTY DETAILS:• 1 bed 1 bath house on a farm• New upgrades throughout• Kitchen appliances: refrigerator, dishwasher and stove• Utilities: Duke Progress Energy• Lawncare included• Attached carport• Washer/dryer hookups• Located close to downtown and city amenitiesPET POLICY:• No petsAPPLICATION PROCESS:• Apply online! – Any person 18 and over MUST
CB RENTAL TEAM TEAMCOLDWELL BANKER PREMIER TEAM REALTY
Patriot Place with multiple rentals available . This beautifully newly renovated 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home offers a perfect blend of comfort and modern living. Step inside to find a spacious open layout that seamlessly connects the living, dining, and kitchen areas, creating an inviting atmosphere for relaxation and entertainment. 3 bedrooms with 2 baths $800.00 month with $1,000.00
PROPERTY DETAILS:• 2 bed 1.5 bath Duplex• Tall ceilings, hardwoods, updated kitchen and bathroom, and concrete driveway• Kitchen appliances: refrigerator and stove• Utilities: City of Lumberton• Lawncare included• Located close to downtown and city amenitiesPET POLICY:• PET FRIENDLY: $250 annual fee plus $25 fee per month (both non-refundable)APPLICATION
CB RENTAL TEAM TEAMCOLDWELL BANKER PREMIER TEAM REALTY
3 bedrooms and 2 baths. City UtilitiesMove-in ready March 3, 2025NO PETSNO SMOKING INSIDE HOME1 year lease required580 minimum credit scoreApplication fee - $50 per person 18+ living in homeDue at lease signing will be the following:Security deposit - $1500First month's rent - $1,350* (*dependent on move in date)Property onboarding fee -
PROPERTY DETAILS:• 2 bdrm 1.5 bath Apartment• Rent includes: Water, sewer, trash disposal, and landscaping• New upgrades throughout• Kitchen appliances: refrigerator, dishwasher and stove• 2nd floor with balcony• Utilities: City of Lumberton (tenant only pays for electric)• Laundrymat on site• Exterior attached storage room• In walking distance to hospital,
CB RENTAL TEAM TEAMCOLDWELL BANKER PREMIER TEAM REALTY
Three-bedroom two bath home. Located in quite community.Four-bedroom two bath home. Located in quite community.Beautiful Home Coming Soon!! HOME IS FOR SALE or RENT! Sale Price $30,000.00 Rental Price $845.00Section 8 not accepted.Move in fees required:Application fee $50.00 per person over 18Lease signing fee $100.00Security Deposit $845.00 Or Lot Security Deposit
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