Jackson County has appeal for older Americans approaching retirement age. County leaders have placed increased emphasis on creating opportunities for retired residents. A substantial number of young adults also reside in the county, taking advantage of the many educational opportunities. The 20 to 29 age group is the largest segment of the population most of the year. North Carolina average population density is 159.2 per square mile.
Deputies reside in strategic locations throughout the county.
Seven volunteer fire departments serve the county, each staffed with efficient and competent volunteers who are equipped with modern fire-fighting equipment. Fire departments are in Sylva, Cullowhee, Savannah, Balsam, Qualla, Canada, and Cashiers. The county library offers free movies each week and a children's story hour during the summer months. The largest library in Western North Carolina, Hunter Library features a comfortable reading section with current international and national newspapers and magazines. All four facilities house impressive book collections and provide a variety of services.