Agriculture and an air force base in eastern North Carolina
Halfway between the Research Triangle and North Carolina’s Crystal Coast, Goldsboro is the largest city and county seat of Wayne County. Originally named Waynesborough, the settlement was renamed to honor Mayor Matthew T. Goldsborough, an assistant chief engineer of the Wilmington and Raleigh (now Wilmington and Weldon) Railroad which put the town on the map. Wayne County remains largely agricultural today, with Goldsboro serving as the area’s economic and cultural capital. The city’s motto “Be More, Do More, Seymour” reflects the presence of Seymour Johnson Air Force Base. The base employs many residents of Goldsboro and northern Wayne County, as do Case Farms and Goldsboro Milling Company.
Seymour Johnson Air Force Base in Goldsboro is home to over 10,000 airmen and their families.
Agriculture is one of Wayne County's largest ecomonic engines, Goldsboro is surrounded by farmland.
Goldsboro Milling Company is one of Wayne County's largest employers and one of the country's largest producers of hogs and turkeys.
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Local entrepreneurialism defines downtown Goldsboro
Local boutiques and crafts stores fill downtown Goldsboro, the commercial and social heart of town. Cry Freedom is a local gift shop and café organized around a good cause. “They fight human trafficking behind the scenes. Some of the pieces in the store have been made by survivors, and they employ survivors as well,” says Amanda Justice, Travel and Tourism Director for the City of Goldsboro and Wayne County. The town also assists individuals in developing businesses of their own. “Launch Wayne is an initiative to get early-stage entrepreneurs off the ground,” says Scott Satterfield, former president of the Wayne County Chamber of Commerce. “We help equip entrepreneurs with the skills to develop pitchable business plans, and there’s a competition where the person with the best pitch can win $5,000 for their business.”
Additionally, residents can dine at a variety of locally run restaurants. “Wayne County is still agricultural, and we have a robust farm-to-table arrangement. We still grow our own food, and every step of food processing takes place here,” Satterfield says. The culinary scene is diverse as well. “We’re known for our eastern North Carolina barbecue, but we also have so much international cuisine because of the presence of the air force base,” Justice says. Shopping plazas, including Berkeley Mall, branch off U.S. Route 13 on the north and east sides of town.
B&G Grill is a Goldsboro favorite that has been serving up home cooking since 1977.
It's easy to park and shop in downtown Goldsboro.
Berkeley Mall in Goldsboro has over 40 stores and is anchored by Belk and JC Penney.
Local and national retailers alike line Wayne Boulevard in Goldsboro, NC.
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Historic and modern homes in Goldsboro
The median home price hovers around $265,000, which is well below the national median. American Craftsman bungalows and Colonial Revivals from the first half of the 20th century fill the blocks just immediately around downtown. Toward the east, these historic homes give way to ranch-style builds from the 1950s through the ‘80s. One- and two-story New Traditional homes are sprouting up on Goldsboro’s north side and fill in the remaining gaps near downtown. A few townhouse and semi-attached home communities sit on Goldsboro’s suburban edges.
Classic bungalow's from the early 1900's are popular around downtown Goldsboro.
Neo-Colonial homes were a popular choice in Goldsboro in the mid-20th century.
Mid-Century ranch homes in Goldsboro were popular with airmen after returning from WWII.
New traditional homes are sprouting up in neighborhoods throughout Goldsboro.
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Convenient highways and Seymour Johnson Air Force Base
The partially completed Interstate 42 passes by Goldsboro, running toward Raleigh, which is approximately 55 miles northwest. Via Interstate 795, Wilson is 26 miles north. Goldsboro-Wayne Transportation Authority buses serve commuters, operating Monday through Saturday during working hours.
UNC Health Wayne, the nearest hospital, is on the northeast side of town and within a 5-mile drive of most homes. Raleigh-Durham International Airport is the closest large commercial airport and about 65 miles to the northwest.
Seymour Johnson Air Force Base sits on the south side of Goldsboro. The facility is a major driving force to Goldsboro both economically and population-wise, and civilian residents try to make military personnel feel welcome. “The B-course is a training program for new pilots when they come into the airbase, and we provide B-course socials where we get community members and soldiers together and thank them for what they do,” Satterfield says.
UNC Wayne Hospital in Goldsboro was recognized as a best maternity care hospital in 2022 and 2023.
Seymour Johnson got its start in Goldsboro, NC as an Army Air Field during WWII.
Seymour Johnson Air Force Base in Goldsboro, NC is home to the largest fighter wing of F-15E's in the Air Force.
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Patriotic events and Foodie Week
Reflective of the air force base, many of the town’s events are patriotic in nature. Each September, NC Freedom Fest celebrates the country’s armed forces and first responders with a car show, inflatables, live music and more. Occurring every odd-numbered year in early May, the Wings Over Wayne Air Show is a free performance by The Thunderbirds in their trademark F-16 Fighting Falcons.
Other events recognize local businesses. “Foodie Week happens the second week of May. We highlight local restaurants, culminating in Foodie Friday, where we invite the community to open table gathering where we eat locally grown and produced food,” Satterfield says. “We also raise an auction for kids that may be going into agriculture in the future.”
Wayne County Public Schools and career readiness
The Wayne County Public Schools district earns an overall B-minus from Niche, with about 17,500 students attending 33 schools. Located on the campus of Wayne Community College, Wayne Early/Middle College High School (often abbreviated WEMCHS) dually-enrolls students from freshman year, allowing them to potentially graduate with a tuition-free associate degree. The application-only school receives an A from Niche. The Wayne School of Engineering gets an A-minus, while the Wayne School of Technical Arts is unrated. These schools serve students in grades six through thirteen interested in STEM, allowing them the opportunity to graduate with an associate’s or industry credentials.
Students also have other opportunities to get a head-start finding gainful employment. “The Chamber of Commerce runs STEAM and career fairs at the Maxwell Convention Center to connect employers to kids,” Satterfield says.
Wayne Community College is a public community college in Goldsboro, North Carolina with over 14,000 students.
Dillard Middle School in Goldsboro has a student body of around 350 children.
Andy Griffith used to teach at Goldsboro High School before he became an actor.
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Hiking, fishing and kayaking around Goldsboro
Busco Beach and ATV Park invites residents to drive rentals or all-terrain vehicles of their own through mud trails and sandy beaches. Visitors are also welcome to fish or swim. Situated on bluffs 14 miles south of town, Cliffs of the Neuse State Park features miles of hiking and biking trails, as well as camping sites for tents and RVs and rental kayaks.
Busco Beach and ATV Park is a recreational riding facility and manmade beach on over 2,000 acres just outside of Goldsboro, NC.
Cliffs of the Neuse State Park lies on over 1,100 acres just south of Goldsboro.
Cliffs of the Neuse State Park near Goldsboro sits on a former fault that shifted the Earth's crust millions of years ago.
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Crime and climate in Goldsboro
According to FBI crime statistics, violent crimes increased 36 percent between 2022 and 2023, while property crimes increased 25 percent over the same period. For the most part, property crimes have been on the decrease since 1996, while violent crimes have remained relatively stable since 2000.
Goldsboro experiences four seasons, with hot, humid summers and cool winters.
Written By
Alexander Breuhan
Photography Contributed By
Lawrence Hiatt
Video By
Matthew Bloch
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
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On average, homes in Goldsboro, NC sell after 38 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Goldsboro, NC over the last 12 months is $264,032, down 2% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
They truly don't build homes like this anymore! This is a rare opportunity to own a historic gem conveniently located in the heart of Goldsboro. This 1921 build perfectly captures the charm and craftsmanship of its era. Expansive parking area for multiple cars. Wrought iron railings and decorative columns adorn the wide stairway onto the covered front porch. This spacious home features 5 bedrooms
$7,000 Incentive for Closing Costs/Rate Buy-Down! Beautifully crafted all-brick custom home offering 3,136 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space in an established tree-lined neighborhood. Thoughtfully designed for both elegance and comfort. The main level features 3 generously size bedrooms, including a serene spacious primary suite, with custom tile work throughout and an easy-living
BRICK BEAUTY!! 1.5 Story Home with 2189sqft, 3 Bedrooms, 2 Bathrooms, Study and Bonus Room on .54ac Lot. Rocking Chair Front Porch Greets you. Entry Foyer opens up to a Cozy Flowing Floorplan. Living Room with Fireplace. Cooks Kitchen with an Island, tons of Counter and Cabinet Space, Granite Tops, Tile Backsplash and Stainless Appliances. Dine in the Formal Dining Room with Coffered Ceiling and
They truly don't build homes like this anymore! This is a rare opportunity to own a historic gem conveniently located in the heart of Goldsboro. This 1921 build perfectly captures the charm and craftsmanship of its era. Expansive parking area for multiple cars. Wrought iron railings and decorative columns adorn the wide stairway onto the covered front porch. This spacious home features 5 bedrooms
FHA ASSUMABLE MORTGAGE - Newer Duplex completed in 2025 - HOUSE HACK: Live in a beautiful home and rent out the other unit to dramatically cut your monthly mortgage payment. This Duplex offers a rare opportunity for both investors and owner-occupants. This modern property features two well-designed units with contemporary finishes, efficient layouts, and low-maintenance construction throughout.
Come see this stellar brick ranch that is move in ready and located in the heart of Goldsboro close to Seymour Johnson Air Force base, downtown and Herman Park. Situated on a large lot (over 1/2 acre) this home provides plenty of space and value. Recent updates include a new roof in 2026, fresh paint throughout, refinished hardwood floors and new carpet and luxury vinyl plank flooring. Kitchen
Assumable VA Mortgage available! Newer duplex completed in 2025, offering a rare opportunity for both investors and owner-occupants. This modern property features two well-designed units with contemporary finishes, efficient layouts, and low-maintenance construction throughout. Ideal for house hacking or generating consistent rental income, with strong appeal to today's tenants and buyers alike.
Livable luxury on the desirable Walnut Creek golf course! Spectacular view the 11th hole greets you from the elegant 2-story foyer with its beautiful curved staircase and the two story great room with its impressive Palladian window wall, to the left is the den with its large wet bar and half bath, there is also a primary ensuite with walk-in closet off the foyer and large formal dining room. The
Judith McMillen
Berkshire Hathaway Home Services McMillen & Associates Realty
$7,000 Incentive for Closing Costs/Rate Buy-Down! Beautifully crafted all-brick custom home offering 3,136 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space in an established tree-lined neighborhood. Thoughtfully designed for both elegance and comfort. The main level features three generously size bedrooms, including a serene spacious primary suite, with custom tile work throughout and an
So many possibilities exist with this property! This stunning property features a 3 beautifully updated single family homes, a detached shop with parking for several vehicles, full electrical service and a separate bathroom and office area. The property also includes a separate carport and two storage sheds. The total acreage for all 3 parcels is 5.19 acres. This is 4 parcels being sold together-
The kind of home that just feels right the moment you walk in. Welcome to 605 Pittman Street in Goldsboro, where classic charm meets thoughtful updates to create a home that's both warm and move-in ready. From the moment you step inside, the beautifully refinished red oak hardwood floors set the tone--rich with character and ready for new memories. The open flow between the living room, dining
If you've been dreaming of a true country retreat with land and horse setup, this one is it. Located in the Grantham community of Wayne County, this 3-bedroom, 2-bath, two-story home sits on 16+ acres of rolling pasture and open space — complete with a horse barn ready for your animals and your lifestyle.The home's layout is made for comfort, featuring a main-floor primary suite plus two
Come check me out! I'm a brick ranch with 3bedrooms and 2 full baths! I have nice hardwood floors throughout. Roof was installed 2016, water heater 2021 and HVAC 2015 and new duct work in 2022. I have granite counter tops in the kitchen. I have a fenced in back yard with a patio for sitting and enjoying the mornings or evenings. I am conveniently located to all essentials. Come and see me, book
Charming 3 BR/2 BA with a Bonus Room; quartz countertops, laminate vinyl tile floors Centrally located near the local hospital, doctors' offices , grocery stores, restaurants, SJAFB, Herman Park, shopping, and downtown Goldsboro. There are two outbuildings (as is) with power in a fully fenced backyard
The Spring Forest Model Home is now available! This beautifully crafted Adams Homes 3,040 sq. ft. floor plan offers 4 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, a bonus room, and an office/flex space that can serve as a 5th bedroom—all on a spacious lot. The inviting foyer opens to a bright family room with 9-ft. smooth ceilings, flush-mount lighting, and a cozy fireplace. The chef's kitchen is a showstopper,
The Reserve at Bradbury Place is a luxury apartment community in Goldsboro, NC. With convenient access to I-795, NC-70 and NC-115 you'll find that access to the area's top employers but find yourself in a hidden oasis off of the main roads. The Reserve at Bradbury Place is conveniently situated between Seymour Johnson AFB, Wayne Memorial, and Cherry Hospital. Designed for an all-inclusive
At Bramblewood Apartment Community in Goldsboro, North Carolina, we provide more than apartments, we provide homes. We are nestled only half a mile from Hwy 70 and are close to restaurants, shopping, and a movie theatre. Seymour Johnson Air Force Base and Berkeley Mall are only five miles away. We offer our residents garden-style apartments with one, two or three bedrooms and two and three
Luxury loft living with a historic past and bright future. The View at Wayne National Bank is now leasing as a luxury loft apartment community with upscale features and amenities. All utilities, cable, and high-speed internet included in rent. Reserve your spot now.Website:
In the heart of Goldsboro, NC, on Spence Ave., sit our beautiful Oak Brook Apartments. This high-end rental home community is perfectly located for shopping and dining out. Adjacent to Berkeley Mall, and less than two miles from the front gate of Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, the complex is perfect for military families relocating for duty. To live here is to experience Goldsboro's most
Attached carport, wood laminate flooring, privacy blinds, interior and exterior LED lighting, and modern appliances. Google Nest Smart Home System included (thermostat, fire/carbon monoxide alarm, doorbell/camera and security). Kitchen features stainless steel appliances and quartz countertops.Landscaping and two separate storage sheds are included!Reedy Branch Greenway is within walking
Welcome to Sheridan Forest Apartments, your new home in Goldsboro, NC. Our pet-friendly community offers a unique blend of comfort and convenience, with an onsite management and maintenance team ready to cater to your needs. Each apartment is designed with an eat-in kitchen, equipped with a dishwasher for your convenience. The vaulted ceilings add a touch of elegance and spaciousness to your
Welcome the year in this new construction home at Sillinger Creek! This beautiful Somerset plan offers the perfect blend of comfort, style, and convenience—just minutes from Goldsboro with easy commuting to SJAFB. Step inside to an open and inviting layout featuring a spacious family room that flows seamlessly into the dining area and a stunning granite island kitchen. The kitchen is equipped
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