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.
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On average, homes in Goldsboro, NC sell after 37 days on the market compared to the national average of 58 days. The median sale price for homes in Goldsboro, NC over the last 12 months is $271,950, down 1% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Welcome Home to 104 Oxford DriveFrom the moment you arrive, you'll feel it -- this one is different. Thoughtfully updated from top to bottom by a single owner who truly cared, this move-in ready townhome in a quiet, established neighborhood offers the kind of easy, comfortable living most people spend years searching for.Inside, the kitchen and both bathrooms have been beautifully
$10,000 USE AS YOU CHOOSE SELLER CONCESSIONS! OVER 2,700 SQ FT | 4 BEDROOMS + BONUS ROOMS! Welcome to the WILLIAM PLAN located in the highly desirable ROSEWOOD area! Built by NEUSE RIVER HOMES, a LOCAL BUILDER KNOWN FOR QUALITY AND ATTENTION TO DETAIL, this home is where THOUGHTFUL DESIGN, CUSTOM-QUALITY FINISHES, and EVERYDAY COMFORT come together beautifully. Tucked inside a community that
Welcome to 226 Timberline Oak Drive, where energy efficiency, everyday convenience, and a backyard built for enjoying North Carolina's seasons come together in one move-in-ready package. Situated just 18 minutes from Seymour Johnson Air Force Base and approximately 15 minutes from Wayne Community College, this property provides easy access to work, school, shopping, and dining. Inside, you'll
Welcome to this charming 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home located in a peaceful neighborhood just outside the Goldsboro city limits. Conveniently situated minutes from local shopping, dining, and everyday amenities, this home offers comfort, space, and great potential. Inside, you'll find generously sized bedrooms with spacious closets, a formal dining room, and two family rooms, providing plenty of
Welcome Home to 104 Oxford DriveFrom the moment you arrive, you'll feel it -- this one is different. Thoughtfully updated from top to bottom by a single owner who truly cared, this move-in ready townhome in a quiet, established neighborhood offers the kind of easy, comfortable living most people spend years searching for.Inside, the kitchen and both bathrooms have been beautifully
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
*Seller Paid Credits of $6,000* 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
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
Large wooded private golf course lot in Deerwood! Rocking chair front porch. Office with built-ins by the front door. The formal dining room and eat-in kitchen are both flooded with sunlight from the oversized bay windows. The kitchen features solid surface countertops, classy tile back splash and stainless steel appliances. Separate laundry room with lots of storage. The den features a
Judith McMillen
Berkshire Hathaway Home Services McMillen & Associates Realty
Only 10 minutes from the front gate of SJAFB, this beautifully renovated brick home sits in a charming neighborhood with mature trees and landscaping. Inside, you'll find hardwood floors, brand-new carpet, fresh paint, and updated fixtures throughout. The spacious primary suite is conveniently located on the main level and features a private en suite bathroom. A split floor plan offers two
Judith McMillen
Berkshire Hathaway Home Services McMillen & Associates Realty
Formal Rooms: Includes dedicated spaces like a formal living room and formal dining room for hosting and special occasions.Large Den: Offers a separate, casual living space perfect for everyday family gathering and relaxation.4 Bedrooms: Provides ample sleeping space for a growing family or guest accommodations.Dedicated Office: Ideal for remote work, studying, or managing household
Judith McMillen
Berkshire Hathaway Home Services McMillen & Associates Realty
This is a cute gem inside of Goldsboro City Limits close to everything. This house is good for downsizing or a starter home. This is a well kept older home with hardwood floors.This little gem sits on little over a half acre with a storage room in back and a shed in backyard. This is a 3 bedroom with 1 bath ready for some updating and your own personal touches. Come take a look and make it
This spacious ranch home offers a functional layout and plenty of room to make it your own. With generous living areas and a solid foundation, it's the perfect opportunity for buyers looking to update and customize to their personal taste. A great option for those seeking space, value, and the chance to create their ideal home.
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 2026 (April) 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
Classic Charm Meets Modern Versatility in an Established Neighborhood Welcome home! Nestled on an expansive, lot in one of the area's most desirable established neighborhoods, this property perfectly blends timeless character with functional family living. From the moment you step onto the rocking chair front porch, you'll feel a deep sense of permanence and privacy that only a mature property
Judith McMillen
Berkshire Hathaway Home Services McMillen & Associates Realty
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
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
Pilot Station Place is currently in Phase II of construction with six duplex buildings currently under construction, expected to finish October/November 2026. Pilot Station Place 100-106 is fully leased with all 8 current homes occupied. Join the pre-leasing list for early access to Phase II by visiting our website by a quick online search of FJPB Holdings Goldsboro, NC
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
Our Cuyler Best Apartments are located near the front gate entrances to Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, the mighty 3,300-acre home of the USAF’s 4th Fighter Wing. With a wealth of amenities and a welcoming atmosphere, these two- and three-bedroom units are perfect for active duty military relocating to Goldsboro!This small city of around 35,000 sits on the state’s Coastal Plain. It has an
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
Property Id: 285395Newly remodeled home, great location across from Lagrange Town Hall. Easy to manage property with affordable utilities. 15-20 minute commute to Goldsboro, Kinston, and SJAB. One hour commute to nearest beach.
Property Id: 2602585Welcome to this charming 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom single family home located at 403 Grand Oaks Drive in Goldsboro, NC. This property boasts a spacious kitchen with modern appliances, cozy fireplace, central heating and cooling, washer/dryer hookups, and a 2-car garage. Enjoy the comfort of carpet and laminate flooring throughout. Pets are welcome (cats and small dogs
Property Id: 2501348Welcome to your new home at 406 Hooks River Rd in Goldsboro, NC! This 2-bedroom, 2-bath townhome is currently being renovated and will offer a clean, modern feel with thoughtful updates throughout.Renovations will include new flooring, fresh paint, new countertops, modern plumbing fixtures, new window coverings, and brand-new appliances—creating a truly
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