James City’s not much of a city, but for some, that’s the appeal
James City was founded in 1862 as a settlement for freed slaves following the Union Army’s occupation of New Bern. The community takes its name from Horace James, an Army chaplain who helped establish evening schools and give religious instruction to African Americans. Unlike other freedmen camps, James City was not broken up after the war, as residents had obtained leases from the land’s original owners. Today, proximity to New Bern remains a huge appeal, and not living in the city proper comes with added benefits. “It’s only two minutes from New Bern, and you don’t have to pay city taxes,” says Jana Tyson, owner of The Tyson Group Realtors who has sold homes in the New Bern area for almost 30 years. That’s because James City isn’t a city at all but an unincorporated area, and one that offers much more of a rural feel, with mature forests and a median lot size of nearly half an acre. From July 2024 to July 2023, James City’s median home price has stood at about $300,000, or $50,000 lower than that of the New Bern metro area.
James City is south of downtown New Bern, providing a tranquil residential area.
New Bern's downtown nightlife is easily accessible from James City.
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Many homes have river access
Most residential streets branch off US Highway 70, leading to dead-ends or the coast of the Neuse River. “A lot of the homes on the water have been torn down and rebuilt. So, there’s a mix of older and newer homes in the neighborhood,” says Cindy Nice, broker with Coldwell Banker. “Most of the waterfront homes have private docks.” Ranch-style homes date from the 1960s to the 1990s. Recent constructions tend to follow stately New Traditional designs, with subdivisions continuing to come in through the 2020s. Detached homes usually go from $150,000 to $400,000, but riverfront manors on multi-acre lots can sell for around $1.2 million. Undeveloped parcels are still available, with prices ranging based on proximity to the water and acreage. Townhouses in Wesmill Pond go for around $300,000, while Trent River Villa’s townhouses near the river and highways sell for twice that. Homes in the northwest corner of James City by the Trent are at a greater flood risk than most homes overlooking the Neuse River because of the flatter terrain.
An aerial view of the Neuse River showcases the proximity of some homes in the area.
A custom-built home in James City overlooks the scenic Neuse River.
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Schools with technical training
Brinson Memorial Elementary is centrally located within James City and earns an overall B from Niche. Grover C. Fields Middle and New Bern High are both located across the Trent River and get a B-plus and a B-minus, respectively. New Bern High’s Career & Technical Education program offers students the chance to earn employment credentials, including Microsoft Office Specialist and Adobe Certified User. The high school is also known for their athletics, teams such as football and boys outdoor track winning several state championships since 2006. Craven Community College is 5 miles west.
Brinson Memorial Elementary School has a Math Proficiency of 52%.
Grover C Fields Middle School scores a B+ on Niche.com.
New Bern High School has a total enrollment of 1,565
Students.
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James City’s airport is expanding
US Highway 70 bisects James City and crosses the Trent River into New Bern. Most residents are about 17 miles from Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point and 17 more miles from Morehead City. Coastal Carolina Regional Airport is on the north side of the neighborhood and offers direct flights to Charlotte, N.C.; Hartford, Connecticut; and Orlando, Florida. The airport’s terminal was recently increased in size, and future expansions are planned. “It doesn’t have so much air traffic that noise is a problem,” Nice says.
The Coastal Carolina Regional Airport offers service from James City to NC locations.
You can cross the Neuse River from James City via the Cherry Branch Minnesott Beach Ferry.
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Some shopping and dining in James City, but the bulk is across the river
There’s a strip mall off US Highway 70 with a Food Lion, Family Dollar, fast food restaurants and various smaller shops. Farther south down the road, there’s also a Harris Teeter. Beartown Bistro & Pizza Company serves up unique pies including a tzatziki pizza with lamb and feta and the smoker, topped with pulled pork, fried onion and other barbecue elements. Brütopia Brewing Company, known for craft beers and live music on weekends, is right across the street. The establishment also sells grains, hops and other ingredients and supplies for anyone interested in doing some home brewing of their own. More restaurants can be found across the Trent River in Downtown New Bern, along with more shopping centers on the west side of town.
Beartown Bistro & Pizza Co. has a unique bar in James City, providing a special experience.
Downtown boutiques are a short drive from James City, providing convenient shopping options.
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Fishing, sports and play in James City
Creekside Park offers a modern playground with slides, climbing ropes and even a few small ziplines. The park also hosts baseball and softball diamonds, volleyball courts and a pier that overlooks Brice Creek, utilized for fishing and kayaking. “Even though the pier is small, fishing is very good over there,” Nice says. “Brice Creek has brackish water. It’s a mix of salt and fresh water, so you can get both types of fish. You can expect bass over there to be big.” New Bern Civil War Battlefield Park is near the center of James City and popular for its guided tours and short strolls through the greenery. “The trails are very well manicured, so they’re a good walk for older people,” Nice says. For walks on the sand and shell-collecting, Atlantic Beach is about 36 miles south.
The riverwalk along Brices Creek provides a peaceful retreat for James City residents to enjoy.
Creekside Park's disc golf course is popular with the locals from James City.
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Downtown New Bern’s brimming with events
Most special events take place across the river in New Bern proper. The Bike MS: Historic New Bern Ride typically attracts over a thousand cyclists each year and raises funds to help fight multiple sclerosis. Over one weekend in September, cyclists bike between 30 and 200 miles each. New Bern is also known for MumFest, short for Chrysanthemum Fest, where locals can enjoy food, live music and games, while supporting local vendors. The festival takes place over a weekend in October.
On the Border performs to a full crowd near James City, entertaining with lively music.
James City cyclists join the BikeMS charity ride, supporting a good cause.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
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to let others know what life in this neighborhood is like.
Crime and Safety
1 - Low Crime, 10 - High Crime
James City
US
Homicide
1
4
Sexual Assault
1
4
Assault with Weapon
1
4
Robbery
2
4
Burglary
3
4
Motor Vehicle Theft
3
4
Larceny
1
4
Crime Score
2
4
Source: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com
James City Demographics and Home Trends
On average, homes in James City, New Bern sell after 63 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in James City, New Bern over the last 12 months is $351,585, down 2% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
NOW OFFERING: $10,000 Use as You Choose (Except off sales price) until March 31st Welcome to The Oxford floor plan, offering approximately 1,638 heated square feet of living space. This home features 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, a spacious great room, and a covered back porch perfect for outdoor relaxation. The home boasts 9' ceilings, a cozy natural gas fireplace, a gas range, and a smart home package
The Coventry welcomes you home! This newly constructed, single-level residence offers 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, and approximately 1,700 square feet of well-designed living space. Ideal for both entertaining and everyday living, the open layout features a spacious great room with a cozy fireplace, a stylish kitchen with a large island and pantry, and a comfortable owner's suite complete with a
Welcome to this beautifully maintained three-bedroom, two-bath home ideally located between historic downtown New Bern and MCAS Cherry Point. A welcoming front porch with classic pillars creates charming curb appeal and offers a comfortable place to relax and enjoy the surroundings.Inside, the open-concept layout is enhanced by vaulted ceilings that create a bright and spacious feel
***PRICE IMPROVEMENT***Wonderful opportunity to build your dream home on a cleared lot in one of New Bern's most desirable neighborhoods! Tons of amenities and the lot is at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac. Public water, sewer and the HOA has a telecommunications agreement for discounted phone, cable and Internet. Must see property!
* $10,000 USE AS YOU CHOOSE * When space and location collide, a moment becomes a destination.Here's your opportunity to stop searching and start living. This well-designed home offers three distinct living areas and two dining spaces, creating flexibility for everyday living, entertaining, or multigenerational needs. The kitchen shines with new stainless steel appliances, complemented by
This charming 2-bedroom, 1-bath home blends modern updates with rich history! Built in 1946 by the current owner's father and lovingly maintained by the family ever since, it features an updated kitchen with gas range and refrigerator, stacked washer/dryer, stylish furnishings, and modern décor. Ideal as a starter home, downsizer, investment, or short-term rental. Enjoy the spacious backyard with
Judith McMillen
Berkshire Hathaway Home Services McMillen & Associates Realty
Beautiful brick home for sale in Taberna on a desirable corner lot in New Bern--now featuring a brand new roof for added peace of mind. Designed for easy one-level living, this home offers a split floor plan, wide doorways, and hardwood/tile flooring throughout (no carpet). Bright living room with cathedral ceilings and gas fireplace opens to a spacious kitchen with granite countertops, custom
Tucked away at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac, this custom-built home offers beautiful views of the 11th fairway and a thoughtfully designed open floor plan. The split-bedroom layout provides privacy, with a spacious primary suite on the right wing and guest bedrooms on the left, connected by a full bath. Designed for both everyday living and entertaining, the home features a formal dining room
The Cali is a spacious and modern single-story home designed with open-concept living in mind. This home features four bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a two-car garage. Upon entering the home, you'll be greeted by an inviting foyer that leads directly into the heart of the home. This open plan features living room, dining room, and well-appointed kitchen. The kitchen is equipped with a corner
Move-In Ready • $14,500 in Potential Buyer Incentives• Quick Close Eligible This 4-bedroom Cypress plan sits on a generous .42-acre corner cul-de-sac lot, offering privacy and outdoor space rarely found at this price point. Step inside to a bright, open main level featuring LVP flooring, a spacious great room, a flex room, and a modern kitchen with shaker cabinets, an island, and stainless GE
The Belhaven is one of our two-story plans featured at Madeline Farm in New Bern, North Carolina, offering three modern elevations and a secondary bedroom on the main floor. This spacious and modern two-story home features four bedrooms, two and a half bathrooms, and a two-car garage. Upon entering the home, you’ll be greeted by an inviting foyer leading into the center of the home with a
The Aria is one of our single family plans featured at Madeline Farm in New Bern, North Carolina, offering 3 modern elevations. The home offers three bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a two-car garage. The spacious family and dining room blends with the kitchen, creating an open and airy feel. The gourmet kitchen has stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, ample cabinet storage, and a walk-in
Recently built & situated on one of the largest lots in Bluewater Rise, this beautiful home offers comfort, privacy, & numerous upgrades.A spacious living room with a tray ceiling & cozy corner gas fireplace, perfect for relaxing.The huge eat-in kitchen includes a large center island, granite countertops, ample cabinetry, & plenty of entertaining space. New lighting fixtures & ceiling
Limited-Time Offer! Receive up to $14,500 in possible buyer incentives with preferred attorney and lender. - $7,500 Home Credit, $7,000 Use as You Choose, One Year of Builder Paid HOA's Discover this stunning new construction home situated on a .27-acre cul-de-sac lot, offering 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, and a thoughtful two-story design. Step into an inviting foyer that opens to a spacious great
NOW OFFERING: $25,000 Use as You Choose (Except off sales price) until March 31st This Charleston-inspired corner-lot townhome offers the perfect blend of charm, comfort, and convenience. Featuring 3 bedrooms and 2.5 baths, this thoughtfully designed home includes a first-floor owner's suite, two spacious great rooms, and two guest bedrooms with walk-in closets. Enjoy outdoor living from both the
At Hudson at Carolina Colors, youll find more than just a home youll find a community. Nestled within New Berns celebrated Carolina Colours neighborhood, our upscale apartments offer the perfect blend of Southern charm and modern convenience. Whether youre relocating to the coast, downsizing for a simpler lifestyle, or seeking a serene retreat close to work and water, Hudson offers the freedom
Available July 2026! Welcome to this beautiful home nestled in an established neighborhood with a charming, small community feel! Residents enjoy access to the water, including a convenient kayak and paddleboard launch--perfect for embracing coastal living. Tucked away in a quiet cul-de-sac, this home offers both privacy and a peaceful setting. A covered front porch welcomes you inside to an
*MILITARY RENTERS RECEIVE MONTHLY DISCOUNT!*Beautiful 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom single-story home in a peaceful, safe neighborhood. This modern home (under 5 years old) features an open-concept kitchen/dining area and a large primary bedroom, with an oversized walk-in closet big enough to be a separate room! The massive backyard provides plenty of space to relax or entertain.Convenient
Welcome to this centrally located home in New Bern, NC! This charming 3 bedroom house features a spacious fenced-in back yard, perfect for pets to roam freely. The additional FROG provides extra space for a home office, playroom, or guest quarters. The kitchen comes fully equipped with a refrigerator, range, dishwasher, and microwave, making meal prep a breeze. Enjoy the convenience of a large
This 3-bedroom, 2-bath residence features an open floor plan with high ceilings and LVP throughout the main living area. The kitchen offers quartz countertops, all appliances to include a gas stove and a pantry. The large living area includes a gas fireplace. The large master suite includes a walk-in closet and spacious master bathroom with tile shower; a sizable laundry room provides
This beautiful two-story home offers 3 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, and a spacious open floor plan perfect for both everyday living and entertaining. The kitchen is a standout feature with a large island, granite countertops, and a smooth-top electric range, seamlessly flowing into the dining and great room. A well-appointed mudroom/laundry room provides ample counter space for added convenience.
Stunning waterfront home located in the desirable Lake View subdivision in New Bern! This spacious two-story home offers 5 bedrooms and 3.5 bathrooms with plenty of room to spread out, entertain, and enjoy peaceful lake views right from your backyard.The main level features a bright and open floor plan with generous living space, a well-appointed kitchen with ample cabinetry and counter
Welcome to this adorable 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home located in the well-established neighborhood of Grantham Place. With an open floor plan, this home offers a bright and functional layout perfect for both relaxing and entertaining. The kitchen comes equipped with a stove, dishwasher, and refrigerator, and the attached two-car garage provides ample space for parking and storage. The spacious
Beautiful 4 bed, 2.5 bath home with upstairs laundry. Home has a dual fireplace - one side in the living room and one side in the beautiful large chefs eat-in kitchen. Kitchen has walk-in pantry, GE smart appliances, gas stove, large island and quartz countertops. The adjacent formal dining room has stunning coffered ceilings. Home has a two car garage with screen pull down, home generator,
Stylish new construction townhome in Carolina Colours — designed for comfort and convenience. This 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath townhouse offers an inviting open layout with LVP flooring throughout the main level and a modern kitchen featuring a gas range, built-in microwave, dishwasher, sink, and a spacious island perfect for casual dining or entertaining. All bedrooms are located upstairs, including the
New Carolina Colours townhome offering modern design and unbeatable community amenities. This newly built 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath townhome features an open-concept first floor with durable LVP flooring and a contemporary kitchen designed for functionality, complete with a large island, sink, dishwasher, gas range, and built-in microwave. Upstairs you'll find all three bedrooms, including a
$100 OFF OF YOUR FIRST THREE MONTHS RENT!!! Spacious floorplan featuring an open-concept kitchen and living area with granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, center island, and walk-in pantry. Flexible first-floor room ideal for an office or playroom. Upstairs offers two bedrooms, two full baths, loft, laundry room, and a private primary suite with walk-in shower, double vanity, and
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