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
Julie Toy,
an experienced agent in this area.
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On average, homes in Dunn, NC sell after 66 days on the market compared to the national average of 57 days. The median sale price for homes in Dunn, NC over the last 12 months is $279,900, consistent with the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
****Back on the market at no fault of the seller due to buyer financing falling through—home inspection with completed repairs, appraisal, and GC letter verifying repairs are all available upon request for serious buyers.**** Welcome to 503 W. Harnett Street, a truly charming Southern retreat nestled in the heart of Downtown Dunn—where timeless character meets modern comfort. From the moment you
Gorgeous estate right in the heart of Dunn's prestigious "Canterbury!" 101 Kingsway will wow you with its custom charm and classic detail. Built in the late 90s no stone was left unturned in its design and it has been meticulously maintained. You'll love the spacious downstairs living space with vaulted ceilings, a gorgeous primary suite, office area, formal dining room, spacious garage, and
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Move-In Ready! 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
Location, Location, Location... and ready for its next chapter. Bonus: this home has a 2.3% assumable FHA loan option. This move-in ready home in Dunhaven offers more than just a place to live, it offers everyday convenience and long-term opportunity. Located in Harnett County, you're close to everything... shopping, restaurants, entertainment, and daily essentials, with access to multiple
Nestled on just over an acre in a peaceful country setting, this beautiful 3,600 sq ft home offers the perfect balance of privacy and convenience--just minutes from major shopping areas and within walking distance of the local middle school. Featuring three generously sized bedrooms and a completely renovated interior, this home is truly move-in ready.The stunning kitchen has been fully
Welcome to Simply Divine at 309 W Divine -- a truly unique property that blends the charm of a private residence with the rare opportunity for supplemental income. At its core, this is a spacious and character-filled home designed for comfortable living and memorable gatherings. The main residence offers multiple bedrooms, inviting living areas, and a layout that provides both functionality and
****Back on the market at no fault of the seller due to buyer financing falling through—home inspection with completed repairs, appraisal, and GC letter verifying repairs are all available upon request for serious buyers.**** Welcome to 503 W. Harnett Street, a truly charming Southern retreat nestled in the heart of Downtown Dunn—where timeless character meets modern comfort. From the moment you
This beautiful 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home sits on a spacious 1-acre lot in the highly sought-after Midway School District. With approximately 215 feet of road frontage, the property offers a great balance of privacy and accessibility in a truly great location. Conveniently located just 5 miles south of I-95 in Dunn, this home provides quick and easy access to I-40, as well as nearby cities like
Build your dream home on this beautiful 1.32 acre lot featuring 213 feet of road frontage and cleared land, making it easy to bring your plans to life. Enjoy the peace of country living while still being conveniently located just outside of Dunn. A septic system will be needed. A soil report from a licensed soil scientist is available upon request. County water is available on Jonesboro Road.
Build your dream home on this beautiful 2.74-acre tract offering the perfect blend of privacy and convenience. Located on Jonesboro Rd., this property features 159.88 feet of paved road frontage, making it ready for your vision.A single driveway has already been approved by the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT), helping streamline the building process. A septic system will
Wooded tract, lots of privacy graveled road has been installed going onto the property. More than one home could be built on this property.School is just down the street. Convenient to Dunn, Coats, Fayetteville and Angier. Tax info will change tract was larger originally. 3.49 acres has wetlands. Water is nearby. New survey is available.
5.00 acres • SOILS available • Dunn NC (Harnett County) • No HOA • Private setting • Quick access to US 421 and I 95 • Potential for multiple homesites subject to approvals • Private road maintenance agreement Come find your private oasis on 5.00 acres at Parcel 3 Bob Lee Lane in Dunn, NC. Soils information is available in the listing documents to help you evaluate build options. Enjoy a private
Discover the perfect spot to build your dream home within the city limits of Dunn! This spacious .30-acre lot offers the convenience of nearby shopping, dining, and schools while providing a peaceful neighborhood setting. City utilities available. Less then a 10 minute drive to I-95. Whether you're ready to build now or invest for the future, this property offers endless potential and a prime
Prime Development Opportunity - 20.28 Acres Near I-95 and I-40 This 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 to
LIKE NEW and ready to impress, this 4-bedroom, 3 full bath home checks all the boxes! The open layout is perfect for entertaining, with a main-floor guest suite (with full bathroom) tucked privately at the rear--ideal for overnight stays. Upstairs features a spacious owner's suite with a soaking tub, separate shower, and a HUGE walk-in closet. Also upstairs are two additional bedrooms, laundry
807 N Ellis Ave offers comfortable multi-family residential living in Dunn, NC. This property features convenient amenities including in unit laundry, recycling services, smoke-free environment, ample storage space, and easy access to transportation options. Designed to provide a practical and pleasant lifestyle, 807 N Ellis Ave is an ideal choice for those seeking a community living experience
Discover comfort and style in this spacious 950 sq ft 1-bedroom, 1-bath apartment at 4921 Fairground Rd #B, Dunn, NC. Featuring modern amenities like air conditioning, hardwood and vinyl flooring, a private balcony, ceiling fan, and in-unit washer and dryer, this unit offers convenience and charm. Enjoy a well-equipped kitchen with range and refrigerator, plus a cozy patio with scenic views.
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.
BEAUTIFULLY REMODELED HOME in DUNN, NC! Check out this 3-bed 2-bath home with a NEW ROOF, front yard, back yard, and adequate private parking. Inside you will find NEW FLOORING, FRESH PAINT, NEW KITCHEN AND BATHROOM FIXTURES, and an OPEN FLOORPLAN!!! This property allows for convenient access to HWY 95, HWY 40, HWY 421, and HWY 301!!! This highway access makes Dunn, NC, less than an hour's
Property Id: 2486339Welcome to this cozy, well-maintained home located at 307 W. Greenwood St in Dunn. This family-owned property is ideal for a single tenant or couple looking for a quiet, comfortable, and move-in ready space with a responsive landlord who takes pride in the home.**Key Features:•Washer & Dryer INCLUDED•Brand NEW Refrigerator•Private single-family home
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. We strongly encourage
Thank you for your interest in 1617 Friendly Rd, Dunn, NC!Beautifully updated 3 bedroom / 2 bathroom home with the space and features today’s renters are looking for.This home offers:- New LVP flooring- Quartz countertops- Spacious eat-in kitchen- Separate formal dining room- Private laundry room- Walk-in closet- Attached garage- Deck patio for
Beautifully crafted 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 set to be repaved mid 2026*
sophistication. This 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom gem boasts a spacious open kitchen adorned with sleek finishes, luxurious LVP flooring that adds an air of refinement, and an oversized laundry/mud room for convenience. The one-car garage is the perfect touch to this stylish abode.Pet lovers will rejoice in the pet-friendly atmosphere that welcomes furry companions into this chic space. Priced
This is a 2 bedroom, 2 bath, two story unit as part of a duplex. Bedrooms are upstairs. This unit has a screened-in porch, LVP flooring, granite countertops, new paint, ceiling fans throughout, including on the porch. Stainless steel appliances in the kitchen including dishwasher, refrigerator, overhead range fan, double sink and stove. Lawncare included in the rent. Tenant responsible
Discover comfort and style in this spacious 950 sq ft 1-bedroom, 1-bath apartment at 4921 Fairground Rd #B, Dunn, NC. Featuring modern amenities like air conditioning, hardwood and vinyl flooring, a private balcony, ceiling fan, and in-unit washer and dryer, this unit offers convenience and charm. Enjoy a well-equipped kitchen with range and refrigerator, plus a cozy patio with scenic views.
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