$263,647Average Value$176Average Price per Sq Ft47Homes For Sale
Known as the East Coast’s “Harbor of Hospitality”
Situated along the Pasquotank River in the very northeastern corner of North Carolina, Elizabeth City has built its reputation on being a friendly riverfront town. When boaters traveling down the Intracoastal Waterway would stop in at Elizabeth City’s docks, they’d leave with new friends and full stomachs. That welcoming spirit is something residents pride themselves in — and as the city continues to grow, it’s remained a way of life “We’ve had tons of people moving here from up north for the warm weather and waterfront lifestyle,” says Rhonda Twiddy, a lifelong Elizabeth City resident and Realtor with the Rhonda Twiddy Team. “But it’s also for the community. This is the kind of place where restaurants know your drink when you come in. I’ve met so many people who moved away, only to come back because there’s no place like it.” Residents here say that Downtown Elizabeth City has seen recent revitalization, bringing with it new businesses, popular events and suburban developments, but the city’s tight-knit feel has never gotten lost along the way.
Mariner's Wharf park holds live music concerts throughout the summer each Tuesday night.
Sawyertown locals are surrounded by the history and charm of Elizabeth City.
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A new Sentara hospital and a large U.S. Coast Guard Air Station
Sentara Healthcare is already one of the city’s largest employers, and its economic footprint is only expected to grow with the completion of a $200 million medical campus slated for opening in 2025. The new hospital is one of the largest development projects in the area since the original facility opened 60 years ago and will bring expanded services and residency programs to the city.
To the south at Elizabeth City Regional Airport, the U.S. Coast Guard Air Station Elizabeth City is one of the biggest and busiest air stations in the country. “The Coast Guard also has a huge number of defense contractors, which also brings people to the city,” Twiddy says. “We also have a lot of people who commute up to Chesapeake or Norfolk, because the cost of living is better here, and so is the traffic.” Government and education are two of the leading employers in the city, thanks to the three universities located in Elizabeth City, while the surrounding area tends to be more rural.
Northside locals are close to the all new Sentara Albemarle Medical Center.
Pelican Pointe sits adjacent to Elizabeth City's U.S. Coast Guard Base.
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A boom in new development, but historic houses remain
Large, historic homes line Main Street in Downtown Elizabeth City, while more suburban neighborhoods such as Riverside are comprised of postwar cottages and riverfront stunners. “There’s not a whole lot of waterfront properties available right now, because people don’t tend to sell those,” Twiddy says. Increasingly, new construction developments have been cropping up on the edges of the city, including single-family homes, townhouses and condos.
The median home price in Elizabeth City is around $320,000, slightly lower than the state median of $375,000. Notably, the median single-family home sells for around $330,000, while the median townhouse is priced closer to $280,000. Homes here stay on the market for an average of 40 days, roughly on par with the national average of 44 days.
Many of the historic homes of Sawyertown are showcased in style outside Downtown Elizabeth City.
New communities and new homes are being build and are available in Riverside.
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Fifty miles from Norfolk via U.S. Route 17
Elizabeth City sits where U.S. Route 158 meets U.S. Route 17, but it’s also long been well-traveled by commercial and recreational boaters passing through along the Intracoastal Waterway. Since the 1980s, a group of volunteers who called themselves the Rose Buddies have received traveling boaters at Mariners’ Wharf with smiles and goody bags, earning the city its nickname: “the Harbor of Hospitality.”
Other North Carolina cities are more than 200 miles inland, meaning most people travel north to the Hampton Roads area of Virginia for city amenities. The nearest commercial flights depart from Norfolk International Airport, about 50 miles north. Plenty of residents also take day trips to the Outer Banks, roughly 100 miles east on the Atlantic coast.
Travel North and Southbound is easy for Sawyertown residents using US Highway 17.
Camden locals enjoy boating and more on the Pasquotank River.
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Three universities and a STEM-based charter school
Elizabeth City-Pasquotank Public Schools serves around 4,800 students and scores a C grade from Niche. It operates seven elementary schools, two middle schools and two high schools, in addition to one early college high school and one alternative school for grades six through 12. A public charter school, the Northeast Academy for Aerospace and Advanced Technologies, is located on the campus of Elizabeth City State University. A historically African American university, ESCU is a public institution within the University of North Carolina system that enrolls roughly 2,500 undergraduate students annually. The college is known for its aviation programs and its partnership with the nearby U.S. Coast Guard Air Station. College of the Albemarle’s central campus and Mid-Atlantic Christian University are also both located in the city.
Elizabeth City State University is a central part of the Edgewood neighborhood.
Northeast Academy for Aerospace and Advanced Technologies offer courses for aspiring pilots.
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At the center of the Albemarle and its tradition of agriculture
Elizabeth City is squarely in the heart of North Carolina’s Albemarle region, the northeastern portion of the state that was first settled early in the colonial era. The Museum of the Albemarle chronicles this area’s storied history, with exhibits spanning from the lost Roanoke Colony to the advent of aviation in Kitty Hawk.
The fertile surrounding region has stayed true to its agricultural roots, which the city celebrates every May with the North Carolina Potato Festival. Elizabeth City also lays claim to the invention of the Moth boat, a type of small sailing dinghy, and regattas are still held on the Pasquotank River each year. Other annual events include the Coast Guard Marathon, the Albemarle Craftsman’s Fair, and a Lighted Boat Parade.
The Museum of the Albemarle is available to Pelican Pointe residents in Downtown Elizabeth City.
Rural Camden is located near Elizabeth City, Nc.
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Riverfront parks and restaurants in Downtown Elizabeth City
After recent revitalization, Downtown Elizabeth City has become a thriving retail and dining hub. Waterfront restaurants sit along the Pasquotank River, with local microbreweries, cafes and other Southern eateries scattered around Downtown. Grocery stores, chain restaurants and big-box shops tend to be along the highways on the suburban outskirts of the city, particularly to the north and the west.
Small greenspaces along the Pasquotank River are the city’s primary gathering spaces, offering boardwalks along the water and boat launch ramps. Fishing, paddling and sailing are all popular activities. “The people who live here want to be out and about, not stuck in their homes,” Twiddy says. “We’ve got all the great waterfront activities without having to pay beach prices for it.” During the summer months, families gather with lawn chairs and picnic blankets for live music and film screenings at these riverfront parks. On the weekends, parents shuttle their kids to soccer games at River Road Sports Complex and baseball games at South Parks Sports Complex. A handful of playgrounds and tot lots are also scattered around Downtown.
Live music, friendly locals and beautiful views make Music on the Green a great event to attend.
Downtown Elizabeth City locals enjoy popular events throughout the year at Waterfront Park.
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Property crime dropping, but flooding remains a concern
According to FBI crime data, in the three-year span from 2020 to 2023, violent crime in Elizabeth City rose by 8% while property crime fell by 25%. Elizabeth City’s violent crime rates are on par with national and state averages, while its property crime rates are slightly higher.
Elizabeth City has a humid, temperate climate, with average winter lows of 35°F and summertime highs of 87°F. Many homes along the Pasquotank River and its tributaries are at risk of flooding, as the area does see significant rainfall from hurricanes and tropical storms off the Atlantic Ocean. While about 50 inches of precipitation annually can be expected, snow tends to be rare.
Written By
Elliot Schorr
Photography Contributed By
Kris Bates
Video By
Chris Freeman
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On average, homes in Elizabeth City, NC sell after 52 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in Elizabeth City, NC over the last 12 months is $260,000, up 4% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Located in Elizabeth City's Historic District, this Colonial Revival home offers approximately 1,710 square feet with 3 bedrooms and 1.5 bathrooms, blending historic character with numerous modern updates. Interior features include original hardwood floors, multiple fireplaces, a spacious foyer, walk-up attic with electricity for additional storage, mudroom, pantry, and an updated kitchen with
Come on home to your own slice of farm & equestrian paradise. Situated on nearly four acres in the Newland area of Pasquotank County/Elizabeth City, 1393 Turnpike Road offers the perfect blend of peaceful country living, thoughtful updates, and equestrian-ready amenities--all while remaining just minutes from town, approximately 30 minutes to Chesapeake, and about an hour from the Outer Banks.
Escape to your private waterfront sanctuary where timeless, stunning brick craftsmanship meets the beauty of nature. Situated on 8 acres, this 4-bedroom, 3-bath residence offers the rare combination of privacy, acreage, and canal frontage - all just minutes from everyday conveniences. Surrounded by beautiful, mature trees and natural landscapes, the property provides a peaceful, restorative
Welcome to 210 Hines Avenue--an 1824 sq ft manufactured home built in 1975 situated on approximately 0.46 acres, plus an additional adjacent 0.08-acre lot for added flexibility and outdoor potential. This one-story residence offers 3 bedrooms and 2 full baths, providing comfortable living with a functional layout designed for everyday convenience. A 2-car attached carport adds practical covered
Nestled on a stunning waterfront property, this spectacular home truly has it all--luxury, comfort, and breathtaking views. As you arrive, the great pier beckons seating and boat lifts, perfect for those who love life on the water. Whether docking a boat or enjoying peaceful mornings by the river, this feature alone sets the tone for an extraordinary lifestyle. Step inside to a magnificent
Discover lawn maintenance-free living in Elizabeth City, NC. This beautifully designed townhome in Pelican Pointe Village offers the perfect blend of low-maintenance living, modern comfort, and coastal lifestyle amenities. Exterior lawn maintenance is included, so you can spend more time enjoying the community pool, tennis courts, pickleball courts, park, boat ramp, dock, and clubhouse. This
Ready to build your dream home in a peaceful, laid-back setting? Check out this fantastic .264-acre wooded lot at 00000 Driftwood Dr in the friendly Glen Cove neighborhood. Why You'll Love It: Canal front Lot: Life on the water calling your name? This canal front lot could be yours. Nature's Best: The lot is beautifully wooded, offering a tranquil, natural vibe. Community Perks: Easy access to a
Some homes simply offer more space. This one offers more possibilities. Thoughtfully designed with generous living areas and a flexible floor plan, 781 Griffin Swamp Road Elizabeth City, NC is ideal for a variety of lifestyles. Whether you're looking for room to entertain, space for hobbies, a home office, or simply a peaceful country setting with room to spread out, this property delivers
Escape to the country into this bright and beautiful home where you will find 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms nestled in the desirable waterfront neighborhood of Juniper Estates. Experience peaceful country living without sacrificing everyday convenience. Located just outside of town and minutes from the bypass, you'll enjoy the tranquility of a small, welcoming neighborhood with easy commutes, no
This unique 53.5-acre waterfront property on 0 Driftwood Dr. in Elizabeth City is not only a stunning canvas for a custom hunting or fishing lodge, but its RMH-15 zoning also opens up a range of exciting development possibilities. Beyond a personal retreat, consider options like a private campground, nature reserve, or even a residential development with multiple dwellings. This zoning allows for
Welcome home to this beautifully maintained 3 bedroom, 2 bath ranch in the desirable Hunters Lake community! Built in 2009, this move in ready home offers 1,312 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space with a popular split bedroom floor plan that provides both comfort and privacy. Step inside to find durable luxury vinyl plank flooring throughout the main living areas, complemented by
Ready to build your dream home in a peaceful, laid-back setting? Check out this .437-acre wooded corner lot at 114 Spindrift Trail in the friendly Glen Cove neighborhood. This property offers so much to love, starting with its generous .437-acre size, providing ample space to design your dream home and garden. Situated on a corner, this heavily wooded lot offers added privacy and greater
Move-in Ready! Welcome home to this beautifully maintained, like-new end-unit townhouse built in 2025 -- a rare end-unit offering the extra light, privacy, and windows an interior unit simply can't match. This home delivers a perfect blend of modern style, comfort, and convenience. Seller can vacate and close within days of contract! The spacious open floor plan features three bedrooms, including
Located in the beautiful community of Elizabeth City, NC, Southgate Manor offers spacious 2BR apartments and townhomes with the most value per square foot. Located in the Downtown neighborhood of Elizabeth City in Pasquotank County, Southgate Manor is just minutes from the US Coast Guard Base, Southgate Mall, Elizabeth City State University (ECSU) and the College of the Albemarle (COA). Choose
Tanglewood Lake is Elizabeth City’s newest and most luxurious lakefront apartment community. Residents will enjoy Tanglewood’s refreshing and serene setting. Tanglewood’s spacious apartments with forest or lake views offer exceptional amenities that include a state-of-the-art fitness center, a resort-style swimming pool with grilling cabana, and clubhouse with bar and entertainment area.
Welcome to this spacious and well-maintained townhome located in the highly desirable Coastal Park Townhomes community. Situated in the heart of Elizabeth City, this 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath property offers comfort, convenience, and plenty of extra space.The main level features an open living area with a functional layout, a bright kitchen equipped with a dishwasher, and washer/dryer hookups
Loft-Style Apartments in Historic Downtown Elizabeth City Now LeasingLive in one of Elizabeth City's most distinctive new addresses. Overton Lofts is a beautifully restored historic cotton mill reimagined as modern apartments soaring ceilings and original architectural character paired with brand-new finishes throughout. Be among the first residents in a building unlike anything else in
Welcome to 703 1st Street in historic Elizabeth City, NC, a charming, newly updated 1-bedroom, 1-bath apartment that offers the perfect blend of comfort and convenience. Located minutes from downtown, this bright and modern unit features brand-new flooring, fresh paint, and a sleek, efficient layout ideal for easy living. Enjoy your own in-unit washer and dryer, energy-efficient
4 Bed, 2 Bath Home in the Millbrooke neighborhood only 6 minutes to the USCG Base. This home has a split floor plan, with the kitchen and dining open to the living room. The kitchen features new appliances, granite counters, and a lot of cabinets. The master bath has granite counters, walk-in shower, separate water closet, two walk in closets and a large linen coset. Sliding door in dining area
Brick home in Weeksville. 3 bedroom, 2 bath home approximately 12 minutes from town. Home offers range/oven-electric , hood vent, and refrigerator, single car attached garage, central HVAC, concrete driveway. No EIC, No pets some additional fees apply.Virtual Tour:
Convenient Downtown Elizabeth City Apartment - Upstairs Unit This freshly updated upstairs apartment is located in the heart of downtown Elizabeth City. Enjoy modern touches throughout, including modern fixtures, LVP flooring, and stainless-steel appliances in the kitchen. Features Include: 1 bedroom, 1 bath, Water and sewer included in rent, Coin-operated washer and dryer in common area,
Discover this well-maintained 3-bedroom, 2-bath home in Elizabeth City, NC. The equipped kitchen opens to a dining room ideal for everyday meals and entertaining. A gas log fireplace provides a cozy focal point in the living area, and central heat and air ensure year-round comfort. Washer and dryer hookups are included for convenience. The property features a large front yard and is located
This sweet 3-bedroom, 2 bath house has been renovated and refreshed from top to bottom. New flooring, fresh paint, and updated appliances are the bonus features to this house that already features a gas fireplace, large kitchen island, back deck and private yard. The location is perfect for those looking to be close to town but also the highway for an easy drive to Virginia for work or play.
This charming and affordable 2-bedroom, 1.5-bath townhome is located in the heart of Elizabeth City, just minutes from downtown, local restaurants, and shopping. The home offers cozy living spaces and a convenient layout, making it a perfect fit for comfortable everyday living. Pet lovers will be happy to know the property is pet-friendly with owner approval, and a $300 non-refundable pet fee per
Large first floor, 2 bed, 1 bath unit in Riverwind Apartments on the Pasquotank River. This unit features an Eat-in kitchen with breakfast bar, built-in shelves in bedrooms. New flooring and fresh paint throughout. It also includes a covered patio with private entrance, private covered parking for this unit, and a large exterior storage closet.Enjoy fishing and swimming from Riverwinds
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