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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A beautiful brick style ranch home with 3 bedrooms and 2 baths. The interior of this lovely home has been completely remodeled. It features an open concept living room, kitchen, dining room and a large deck in the back. Kitchen includes new appliances, new cabinets and countertops. New paint and luxury vinyl planks in all rooms. Convenient new tankless water heater. Bathrooms provide luxurious
NEW PRICE / NEW LOOK! Flexible Living • Multi-Generational Opportunity • Separate Upstairs Living Area This spacious historic bungalow offers a rare opportunity with flexible living space and a unique layout featuring a private exterior entrance to the upper level. Ideal for multi-generational living, guests, or buyers seeking additional residential flexibility. Located in Lumberton’s desirable
Does an easy, one-level home in Oakridge sound like what you’ve been waiting for? This 3-bedroom, 2-bath home in the Amberdale community offers a welcoming front porch, a 2-car garage, and a layout that feels open without losing its cozy charm. Inside, the living room, kitchen, and eat-in area flow together beautifully, filled with natural light and warm finishes that make the space feel
Located in the heart of Robeson County, this flat 0.53-acre lot is ready for your dream home. Minimal prep is needed--just bring your builder. Enjoy quiet country living at its best. Vacant land, ready to go. There are very few vacant lots prepared to build on in the Lumberton area. A Perc test is required. This has been a row crop field for over 40 years. 115' of road frontage. County water and
Located in the heart of Robeson County, this flat 0.50-acre lot is ready for your dream home. Minimal prep is needed--just bring your builder. Enjoy quiet country living at its best. Vacant land, ready to go. There are very few vacant lots in the Lumberton area prepared for building. A Perc test is required. This has been a row crop field for over 40 years. 110' of road frontage. County water and
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
Located in the heart of Robeson County, this flat 0.46-acre lot is ready for your dream home. Minimal prep is needed--just bring your builder. Enjoy quiet country living at its best. Vacant land, ready to go. There are very few vacant lots in the Lumberton area prepared for building. A Perc test is required. This has been a row crop field for over 40 years. 115' of road frontage. County water and
Located in the heart of Robeson County, this flat 0.52-acre lot is ready for your dream home. Minimal prep is needed--just bring your builder. Enjoy quiet country living at its best. Vacant land, ready to go. There are very few vacant lots prepared to build on in the Lumberton area. A Perc test is required. This has been a row crop field for over 40 years. 115' of road frontage. County water and
2022 Year Model Approximately 1836 Sq Ft 4 Bedroom 2 Full Bath Manufactured Home. Large Living Room and Den, Island Kitchen with Range and Dishwasher, Large Primary Bedroom - Bath with Tub/Shower Combo and Walk in Closet. Seller to install New Central Air Unit prior to Close, Vinyl Tilt Windows, Blinds Through Out, Permanent Foundation, Brick Underpinned, Public Water, Private Septic, Large .58
Bring your horses and build the mini farm of your dreams on this 15.68-acre hidden gem! Tucked away off Snake Road and free of restrictions, this peaceful property offers the perfect blend of privacy and conveniencejust minutes from town. Whether you're starting a hobby farm or creating a private equestrian retreat, the possibilities are endless!
This 11.62-acre tract located on McPhail Road in Lumberton, NC offers an outstanding opportunity for investors, developers, and business owners seeking a versatile and well-positioned property. The tract is accessed via a 30-foot private road and utility easement, providing both privacy and functionality while maintaining convenient access.With great soils and the added benefit of sewer
Located just south of Lumberton in Robeson County, North Carolina, the Stone Tract is a highly desirable ±32-acre recreational and timber investment property offering excellent access, strong future returns, and outstanding wildlife habitat. Conveniently situated near both Highway 74 and Interstate 95, the property provides easy travel to Wilmington and the North Carolina coast while maintaining
Located less than 5 miles from downtown Lumberton, the Lumber River Tract is a unique recreational retreat that's a short commute from town and offers potential future cash flow. The property features +/- 126 acres of bottomland hardwood and almost 3 miles of frontage along the Lumber River. The timber includes +/- 74 acres of2019 planted pines; and +/- 70 acres of upland pine were recently
Robeson 702 is located in eastern Robeson County in a quiet rural setting surrounded by large private land holdings managed for timber and recreational use. The upland forested acreage consists of a 17-year-old pine plantation that has been recently thinned. This provides proper spacing and maximizes annual growth for continued revenue streams with proper forest management. Multiple decking areas
Property Id: 18097913 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
Property Id: 1487284This 4BR/2BA home was renovated fully inside and out. Fully furnished. Features a spacious kitchen. Also has a large family room with a separate sitting room. Each bedroom offers a queen-sized bed and ceiling fans for a cool and relaxing atmosphere. You'll find built-in closets, nightstands, dressers, and desks, providing ample storage and workspace. Additionally,
Property Id: 1736693Single 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.
Newly remodeled home featuring natural gas stove, refrigerator, dishwasher, and stainless steel over-the-range hood vent. Washer/dryer hookups located in separate laundry room. Spacious walk-in shower, central heat and air, and security system with alarm and cameras. Property includes attached 1-car carport, storage building, and welcoming front porch. Conveniently located near I-95, shopping,
Patriot Place with multiple rentals available is offering 1st-month special for qualified tenants is designed to ease your move-in costs, offering 1/2 off or a free first month\'s rent. 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
3-Bedroom Brick Ranch in a Peaceful Country Setting!Enjoy quiet country living in this 3-bedroom, 1-bath brick ranch. This cozy home features a spacious living area. Conveniently located with easy access to town and I-95.
This is a brand new 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom Clayton home available for rent in Rosewood Land Community. The home features a spacious layout, comfortable living areas, and a move-in-ready condition. The application fee is $50 for everyone over the age of 18. First month’s rent along with the security deposit are due at move-in. This property is ready for immediate occupancy. CALL PROPERTY MANAGER
Located in the all ages manufactured home community of Waynesville Estates, this previously owned 2021 Clayton home has 4 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms at approximately 1,064 square feet. This home comes with a full kitchen, linoleum flooring, washer/dryer hook-ups, and a driveway. Plus, it has a spacious layout, great location and much more! Waynesville Estates offers a friendly atmosphere,
Fully Furnished Rental Available! Great for nurses and residents walking distance to the hospital and shopping!This beautiful two-bedroom, one-bath home is fully furnished and ready for you! Enjoy the convenience of utilities included, plus appliances like a washer, dryer, refrigerator, and microwave. Perfect for short-term or long-term stays. Don't miss out! ??
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,
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