Harnett County’s largest city has had a few different names
A city renamed several times throughout history, Dunn isn’t afraid to change things up. First called Tearshirt and later Lucknow, this small enclave between Fayetteville and Raleigh is on a slow rise. “We’re working on our art scene and we’re trying to build a pocket park downtown,” says Karyn Lindsey, Dunn’s downtown director, who adds that this city of less than 10,000 is laid-back. “It just has such a homey community-driven vibe. You can tell that all the people care about all the people.”
A red caboose resting near the city center is a nod to Dunn’s namesake, Bennett Dunn, an Atlantic Coast Line Railroad engineer who oversaw the construction of the tracks between Fayetteville and Wilson. Originally a logging town that produced turpentine, Dunn’s economy today is largely based on retail trade and healthcare as it features a full-service hospital and is near several major highways.
A red caboose near the city center is a nod to Dunn’s namesake, Bennett Dunn, an Atlantic Coast Line Railroad engineer.
Betsy Johnson Hospital in Dunn is a major economic driver in the community.
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A range of home styles, the plans for a new housing development
The median price for a single-family home in Dunn is roughly $270,000, well below the national median of about $400,000. Properties typically sell after nearly 60 days on the market, which is longer than the national average of 45 days. Bungalows and cottages sit blocks from downtown, while Colonial Revival, New Traditional and ranch-style homes fill subdivisions away from the city center. A development approved by the Dunn City Council in 2024 will build nearly 200 homes behind the Harnett Crossing shopping center.
Along with the threat of tropical storms during the Atlantic Hurricane Season, Dunn is prone to flooding as the Black River and the Stoney Run wetland corridor hug the city. Addressing flood risk and aging stormwater infrastructure is a priority for city leaders, according to development plans by the city and the Carolina Wetlands Association.
New Traditional and ranch-style homes fill subdivisions outside of downtown Dunn.
Bungalows and cottages sit blocks from downtown Dunn.
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Downtown Dunn’s burgeoning city center
Featuring the Stewart Theater and the Dunn Area History Museum, downtown Dunn is where retail, art and community collide. A few murals add a splash of color to this city center also known as the Dunn Commercial Historic District. “Everything you need is here. We’ve got your small-town boutiques and coffee shops,” says Lindsey, who adds that downtown also hosts a few restaurants and bars. Local and regional musicians take center stage at the annual Lucknow Music Festival, held each April. Along with live music, organizers set up a beer garden and craft show.
Dunn is where retail, art and community collide.
Downtown Dunn has small-town boutiques and coffee shops and a few restaurants and bars.
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A unique feature at Dunn Dog Park, a new trail in the works
Four parks and a recreation center dot Dunn. Tyler Park, featuring the Nathan Harris Athletic Complex, is a summertime hot spot for its playground and splash pad conveniently located across from Dunn Elementary School. Lindsey says Dunn Dog Park is popular year-round. It features a coin-operated tennis ball vending machine. A planned 7-mile loop trail will eventually connect the city’s green spaces. An access point for the Cape Fear River is less than 6 miles away for kayaking and fishing excursions or a quiet hike with scenic overlooks.
Tyler Park, features the Nathan Harris Athletic Complex in downtown Dunn.
Buy your furry friend a tennis ball from a vending machine at the Dunn Dog Park.
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A city near the Interstate 95/Interstate 40 interchange
Commuters have quick access to Interstate 95 connecting Dunn to larger nearby cities, including Fayetteville and Raleigh. But with Interstate 40 less than 10 miles away, Lindsey notes, “People from here typically go out towards the coast more than they go to Raleigh. It’s only a couple hours drive.” Residents driving through the city center may have to briefly stop for a passing train, but Lindsey says it’s rarely an issue. “They’re pretty much through and done, no pun intended. It’s not like downtown Fayetteville where the trains stop and sit on the tracks for a while.” Raleigh-Durham International Airport is the closest commercial airport, about 55 miles away.
Commuters have quick access to Interstate 95 connecting Dunn to larger nearby cities, including Fayetteville and Raleigh.
Interstate 40 East from Dunn, leads to the Carolina Coast.
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Harnett County Schools and a community college campus in town
Harnett County Schools serves Dunn and receives a C-plus overall rating from Niche. The district has more than 20,000 students and 28 schools. Dunn is home to the B-plus-rated Harnett County Early College. The school partners with Central Carolina Community College, which has a campus in town. Campbell University, a small private Christian university, is about 10 miles away in rural Buies Creek.
Dunn Middle School is part of the Harnett County Schools and receives a C-plus overall rating from Niche.
Dunn is home to the B-plus-rated Harnett County Early College.
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Written By
DeeVa Payne
Photography Contributed By
Bryan Regan
Video By
Tyler Newbold
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Courtney Allee,
an experienced agent in this area.
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On average, homes in Dunn, NC sell after 62 days on the market compared to the national average of 53 days. The median sale price for homes in Dunn, NC over the last 12 months is $279,800, consistent with the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
The Sunset Floor Plan built by Ben Stout Construction, is a beautiful split ranch plan in the new and charming Ila's Way! Amazing new community in Dunn, and just minutes from I-95! The home features an open living/kitchen/dining combo with island, granite countertop, lots of cabinet space, and walk in pantry! Owners suite w/ ensuite, dual vanity, walk in shower and 2 spacious extra bedrooms.
Stunning Franklin floor plan on a spacious cul-de-sac lot! The kitchen boasts beautiful cabinetry, granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and a tile backsplash, seamlessly flowing into the living room with a cozy fireplace—perfect for relaxing or entertaining. Retreat to the first-floor main suite, featuring a large walk-in closet, double-sink vanity, and a luxurious 5-ft tiled shower.
The Magnolia Floor Plan built by Ben Stout Construction, is a stunning 2 story with 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, in the new and charming Ila's Way! Amazing new community in Dunn, and just minutes from I-95! The main level of the home features an open living/kitchen/dining combo with island, granite countertop, lots of cabinet space, and room to entertain. First floor features the owners suite w/
Experience the comfort of this well-maintained home, offering a harmonious blend of functionality and charm. The property provides a cozy atmosphere with its thoughtful design and practical features. Embrace the opportunity to enjoy a pleasant living environment in this appealing residence. This appealing home features five bedrooms and three bathrooms, offering ample space for comfortable family
Motivated Seller! Offering nearly 5,000 square feet of living space, this impressive 1939 corner lot home blends timeless character with modern updates. Featuring 6 bedrooms and 3 full baths, the generous floor plan includes formal living and dining rooms, a dedicated office, sunroom, and a finished bonus room. The kitchen is a chef’s dream with granite countertops, a gas cooktop, electric oven,
SIMPLY DIVINE - Where Southern Charm Meets Endless Possibility Welcome to Simply Divine, an extraordinary 8BD / 10BA historic home nestled on .96 of an acres beautifully manicured in the heart of sophistication and serenity. Whether you're looking for your dream forever home, a thriving bed & breakfast, or an elegant wedding venue, this property is truly one-of-a-kind—and the name says it all.
Welcome to this 5 acre slice of paradise in the Meadow area! Wooded with pond at back of property. Preliminary soil test indicates likely septic suitable soils toward the left of the property. Survey and soil reports available upon request.
8 Acres!! Whether you seek a weekend retreat or your dream home or your very own mini farm this 8 acre parcel is ready to fulfill your vision*Discover the perfect canvas for your dream home and/or mini farm! Come play & relax while enjoying the country life! Plenty of room to explore nature while taking advantage of this great location. Located on a quite road in Southern Johnston County
Unlock the possibilities at 203 Zachary Lane in Dunn, NC. Ideally located just minutes from I-95 and downtown shopping, dining, and everyday conveniences, this one-story 2-bedroom, 1-bath home offers outstanding potential in a highly accessible setting. The expansive, flat yard provides space for outdoor living, gardens, recreation, or future improvements, while the wide side porch invites
This beautifully updated brick ranch home offers stylish upgrades throughout. The main living areas feature new engineered wood floors, while the bedroom includes plush new carpet for comfort. The kitchen has been refreshed with new cabinets, quartz countertops, a tile backsplash, and stainless steel appliances. The bathroom completes the updates with new tile floors and a custom quartz vanity,
Prime Development Opportunity - 20.28 Acres Near I-95 and I-40This 20.28-acre property presents an exceptional opportunity for residential or commercial development in a highly accessible and rapidly growing area. Located just 1.7 miles from Interstate 95 via Jonesboro Road and only 0.70 miles via Hodges Chapel Road with Interstate I-40 five miles away. The site offers outstanding access
This charming single-family home offers 2 bedrooms, 1 full and 1 half bathroom with approximately 1,064 square feet of living space on a generous .29 acre lot. The home has been recently updated with brand-new flooring, fresh interior paint, new refrigerator, hood range and dishwasher making it truly move-in ready. Built in 1986, the property features a comfortable layout with bright living
Beautifully updated 4-bedroom, 3-bath ranch-style home with a finished basement on just over 1 acre in Dunn! Offering 3,298 sq. ft. of living space, this spacious home features gleaming hardwood floors, open living areas, and a renovated kitchen with modern updates throughout. The finished basement provides flexible space for guests, a home office, or recreation. Enjoy a 3-car garage, paved
Whether you seek a weekend retreat or your dream home or your very own mini farm this 8 acre parcel is ready to fulfill your vision*Discover the perfect canvas for your dream home and/or mini farm! Come play & relax while enjoying the country life! Plenty of room to explore nature while taking advantage of this great location. Located on a quite road in Southern Johnston County convenient to I-40
5 acres available in the Meadow area! Wooded, with pond access at the back of the property. Bring your vision! Create your private homestead in the country.
Welcome to this charming first-floor unit offering fresh interior paint and newly updated flooring. The home features a comfortable one-bedroom layout with a spacious flex room and kitchen. Washer & dryer connections inside the unit. Natural light enhances the interior, creating a bright and welcoming atmosphere throughout. Great area, located near Downtown Dunn. Visit www.t10.homes to apply or
Welcome to this charming first-floor unit offering fresh interior paint and newly updated flooring. The home features a comfortable one-bedroom layout with a spacious flex room and kitchen. Washer & dryer connections inside the unit. Natural light enhances the interior, creating a bright and welcoming atmosphere throughout. Great area, located near Downtown Dunn. Visit www.t10.homes to apply or
At Camden Place Apartments in Dunn North Carolina, you've discovered your new home. Situated between Raleigh and Fayetteville, Dunn provides a small-town feel with conveniences like shopping, restaurants, parks, and museums. Dunn is known for its accessibility, with convenience to Interstates 95 and 40 as well as U.S. Routs 301 and 421. Enjoy a great selection of amenities and features.
Precious brick ranch nearby to Dunn on a private dead end road! 3 bedrooms and 1.5 bathrooms with a large living room and washer and dryer included! 1 car carport attached for extra storage. Freshly painted and tons of other upgrades! Minimum 650 credit score required. No pets.
Property Id: 2319798Encantadora casa de 1 habitación y 1 baño disponible para renta en el corazón del centro de Dunn. Convenientemente ubicada cerca de la autopista 95, esta propiedad ofrece fácil acceso a restaurantes, tiendas y rutas principales. Un espacio cómodo y eficiente, ideal para inquilinos que buscan simplicidad, conveniencia y una excelente
For Lease - Convenient Location Near I-95!Nearly new 4-bedroom, 3-bath home built just 2 years ago, ideally located right off I-95 with quick access to shopping, restaurants, and the hospital. Situated on a large lot, this home features a spacious open-concept floor plan with luxury vinyl plank flooring throughout. The kitchen is equipped with stainless-steel appliances, custom cabinetry,
This is a 3 bedroom 2 bath mobile home that sits in the country at 1,512 sq ft. This home is great for a family that will enjoy it and keep the property up and maintain. This home also sit on 1.04 acres that you can enjoy with parking. 1. Application Must be approved and once its approve you will be able to do a tour when home is ready.2.Must not have any eviction3.Must have ID
Beautifully crafted new construction home located in Godwin Acres, Sampson County now available! This magnificent home has stainless steel appliances, LVP flooring, concrete driveway with a two car garage, large walk In closets, and spacious kitchen! Pets are welcome with owners approval. Pet fee required if accepted. $2100/month + $2100/deposit with an approved application. *Road scheduled for
Beautifully crafted new construction home located in Godwin Acres, Sampson County now available! This magnificent home has stainless steel appliances, LVP flooring, concrete driveway with a two car garage, large walk In closets, and spacious kitchen! Pets are welcome with owners approval. Pet fee required if accepted. $2100/month + $2100/deposit with an approved application. *Road scheduled to be
Ready to move into! Charming 3 BR, 1 1/2 Bath ranch home with 2 car garage! Great neighborhood located inside the city limits of Dunn! Nice backyard! NO PETS!
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