Situated in the heart of the sunny Outer Banks region, Kill Devil Hills might be one of the best-known towns on the North Carolina barrier islands. This laidback beach town is smack-dab in the middle of the Northern Beaches, less than 10 miles from the mainland via Wright Memorial Bridge. “When you cross that bridge, it’s like a weight is lifted off your shoulders,” says Michael Siers, an Outer Banks resident and broker with Howard Hanna Outer Banks Realty. “It’s not like a continual vacation because it’s a much more relaxed lifestyle than you can get on vacation. That’s what people are buying when they move here.” According to Siers, families from across the country have been coming to the Outer Banks seeking a slow-paced lifestyle and the tranquility that comes with living near the water. Not everyone who lives in Kill Devil Hills is a year-round resident, as seasonal rentals are a popular investment. Although the town has a permanent population of just 7,700, the Outer Banks welcomes over 2 million visitors annually, and tourism accounts for approximately 45% of jobs in Dare County.
Charming homes throughout Kill Devil Hills blend seamlessly with the coastal landscape.
Kill Devil Hills is the perfect destination for relaxation and adventure.
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From waterfront mansions to beachy bungalows
Homes in Kill Devil Hills span multi-million-dollar mansions to petite beach cottages. New construction homes are easier to find here than in other parts of the Outer Banks, as are condos and townhouses. Wooden piling, large ocean-facing windows and colorful exteriors with cheeky slogans are just a few of the trademarks of the area’s homes. The median price for a single-family home is $550,000, higher than the national median of $410,000. Townhouses sell at a median price of $520,000. Houses spend 65 days on the market on average, longer than the national average of 45 days.
Homes in Kill Devil Hills span multi-million-dollar mansions to condominium beach homes.
Vacation rentals along the shores of Kill Devil Hills offer ocean views and the relaxing sound of waves just steps away.
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Beach bumming on the Atlantic Coast, and a memorial to the first flight
The number one attraction in Kill Devil Hills is its beaches, which stretch uninterrupted for miles along the coast. Thanks to the Outer Banks’ excellent swells, water sports such as surfing, kiteboarding and windsurfing are especially popular, and the sandy shores offer sunbathing spots aplenty. From Avalon Pier, fishermen can cast a line to catch some bass, bluefish or mackerel. The other side of Kill Devil Hills is bordered by Kitty Hawk Bay and the Albemarle Sound, offering even more room for waterfront recreation. “You can see some of the best sunsets over the bay while walking along Bay Drive,” Siers says.
Each year, hundreds of thousands of visitors flock to the Wright Brothers National Memorial, which commemorates the world’s first controlled flights that took place in the Outer Banks in December 1903. Although the memorial is a well-known tourist destination, Siers says that its sweeping views also make it a popular place to walk and enjoy the sunrise. Multiple other recreation facilities are right next door, including a skate park, arboretum and pickleball courts, while wooded preserves along the sound grant secluded walking trails.
Outer Banks at Kill Devil Hill welcomes over 2 million visitors annually.
Visitors flock to the Wright Brothers National Memorial, in Kill Devil Hill, which commemorates the world’s first controlled flights that took place in the Outer Banks.
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Along a major highway and 80 miles from Norfolk, Virginia
U.S. Route 158 runs through Kill Devil Hills, connecting it to the other Outer Banks villages as well as the mainland via the Wright Memorial Bridge in Kitty Hawk. While the island has its own hospital, Outer Banks Health Hospital in Nags Head, the nearest international airport is 80 miles north in Norfolk. “You have everything you need on a day-to-day basis in Kill Devil Hills,” Siers says. “Most people only occasionally need to travel to Norfolk or Virginia Beach for specialty services.” To the south, U.S. Route 64 crosses the Roanoke Sound to Roanoke Island, where Manteo is located. Many homes are within walking or biking distance of the beach and restaurants.
Local restaurants on U.S. Route 158 and beachfront souvenir shops
Eclectic local restaurants and familiar chain shops line U.S. Route 158 right in the heart of town, with a handful of eateries located right on the beach. Some businesses operate out of converted homes, while other souvenir shops are tucked into shopping centers. “Kill Devil Hills is the most commercialized of the Outer Banks towns,” Siers says, noting that more big-box stores, such as Target, have recently opened in the area. Most businesses in Kill Devil Hills are open year-round, though some have limited hours in the offseason.
For vibrant coastal flavors, and delicious Southern comfort food, visit Jolly Roger in Kill Devil Hills.
It's been quoted that Kill Devil Hills is the most commercialized of the Outer Banks towns.
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Well-rated Dare County Schools
Dare County Schools serves the entire Outer Banks and scores an A-minus from Niche. Most Kill Devil Hills addresses are zoned for First Flight Elementary, First Flight Middle and First Flight High, although some are zoned to Nags Head Elementary.
First Flight Middle School serves 612 students throughout Dare County.
First Flight Elementary School is part of the Dare County School District.
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Overall low violent crime and falling property crime
Crime data provided by the FBI shows that violent crime in Kill Devil Hills increased from 20 counts in 2018 to 33 counts in 2023. Over the same five-year span, property crime decreased by 55%.
Coastal flooding and higher home maintenance
Summers in Kill Devil Hills are hot, and winters are mild. The town’s location on the Atlantic Coast makes it particularly vulnerable to hurricanes and tropical storms, which can cause severe flooding. Flood insurance is typically required for homes directly on the water, and the salty ocean air can contribute to higher home maintenance costs.
Homes built on stilts in Kill Devil Hills, are designed to protect from storms while offering stunning views of the Outer Banks.
New construction homes are easy to find throughout Kill Devil Hills.
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Written By
Elliot Schorr
Photography Contributed By
Anna Cheng
Video By
EB Fox
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Janice Scarborough,
an experienced agent in this area.
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On average, homes in Kill Devil Hills, NC sell after 66 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Kill Devil Hills, NC over the last 12 months is $532,450, down 5% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Come see this OCEANFRONT condo centrally located in the heart of Kill Devil Hills today! This beautiful 1-bedroom, 1-bath condo offers top tier amenities in the First Flight Retreat community. Enjoy coastal living with your own private balcony highlighting those ocean views and hot tub. This turnkey condo offers an open concept living area with the option of a pull-out sofa for additional
Welcome to your dream Outer Banks soundfront home; a serene waterfront retreat nestled off Colington Creek in the Town of Kill Devil Hills. With exquisite interior & exterior finishes, this stunning 3-bedroom, 2 bathroom sound front property offers an updated perfection for modern living. Step inside to a cathedral foyer... the beautiful details and custom lighting flow seamlessly throughout
Introducing THE TALORA — a masterfully designed soundfront retreat that perfectly blends timeless elegance with modern coastal luxury. This spectacular 8-bedroom home, including two primary suites with spa-inspired ensuites, was thoughtfully crafted to capture breathtaking water views from expansive windows and multi-level decks.The chef-inspired kitchen, complete with a grand island and
Located in the heart of Nags Head, this well-positioned condo at Croatan Surf Club presents a compelling opportunity for investors seeking both lifestyle enjoyment and income potential. Situated directly on the beachside of South Virginia Dare Trail, the units within the community benefit from strong rental demand driven by its oceanfront proximity, walkable access to dining and shopping, and the
Discover a great opportunity with this well priced home in a highly desirable location across from the Wright Brothers National Memorial! Enjoy direct ocean access to incredible beaches, and the many attractions, including restaurants, bars and shops nearby. This property is perfectly positioned to enjoy everything the Outer Banks has to offer. The main level features a 3 bedroom, 2 bath open
New Construction! These quality built Townhomes are located in the "heart" of Kill Devil Hills giving you easy drive time to navigate around the OBX Beaches! Enclosed Garages offer you complete dry entry to your own Unit!! Living level has combination Kitchen/Living room with Ensuite (bedroom w/Private Bathroom w/walk in shower) for easy living! Stainless Appliance pkg and Custom Kitchen Cabinets
This light filled rare end unit is packed with recent upgrades and ready for you to enjoy! In 2022, the entire home was refreshed with all-new Pergo water- resistant wood flooring, new carpet on all stairs, and fresh paint throughout. The kitchen features granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and new dishwasher in 2023. Each lovingly decorated bedroom has it's own full bathroom, and
Build your dream home on this exceptional sound front lot offering breathtaking views of the Albemarle Sound. Located in the Carlyle on the Sound community in Kill Devil Hills, NC, Spanning approximately 0.43 acres (18,000 square feet), this prime homesite provides ample space to create a custom waterfront retreat that seamlessly blends with its tranquil natural surroundings. Carlyle on the Sound
Don’t miss this thoughtfully updated 3BR/2BA beach house centrally located in Kill Devil Hills. The home features a fresh, light-filled interior with an impressive updated kitchen, durable LVP flooring, and a bright coastal aesthetic throughout. Ideally situated close to the beach, dining, and shopping, this property is well suited as a primary residence, second home, or investment opportunity. A
New Construction! These quality built Townhomes are located in the "heart" of Kill Devil Hills giving you easy drive time to navigate around the OBX Beaches! Enclosed Garages offer you complete dry entry to your own Unit!! Living level has combination Kitchen/Living room with Ensuite (bedroom w/Private Bathroom w/walk in shower) for easy living! Stainless Appliance pkg and Custom Kitchen Cabinets
New Construction! These quality built Townhomes are located in the "heart" of Kill Devil Hills giving you easy drive time to navigate around the OBX Beaches! Enclosed Garages offer you complete dry entry to your own Unit!! Living level has combination Kitchen/Living room with Ensuite (bedroom w/Private Bathroom w/walk in shower) for easy living! Stainless Appliance pkg and Custom Kitchen Cabinets
Build your dream waterfront home in the Outer Banks on this soundfront lot in Carlyle on the Sound in Kill Devil Hills, NC. This .43-acre (18,000 sq ft) homesite on the Albemarle Sound offers breathtaking sunset views, high elevation, and direct sound access.The lot is ready to build with survey and perc test already completed, saving time and expense for your future construction.Located in the
New Construction! These quality built Townhomes are located in the "heart" of Kill Devil Hills giving you easy drive time to navigate around the OBX Beaches! Enclosed Garages offer you complete dry entry to your own Unit!! Living level has combination Kitchen/Living room with Ensuite (bedroom w/Private Bathroom w/walk in shower) for easy living! Stainless Appliance pkg and Custom Kitchen Cabinets
New Construction! These quality built Townhomes are located in the ''heart'' of Kill Devil Hills giving you easy drive time to navigate around the OBX Beaches! Enclosed Garages offer you complete dry entry to your own Unit!! Living level has combination Kitchen/Living room with Ensuite (bedroom w/Private Bathroom w/walk in shower) for easy living! Stainless Appliance pkg and Custom Kitchen
New Construction! These quality built Townhomes are located in the ''heart'' of Kill Devil Hills giving you easy drive time to navigate around the OBX Beaches! Enclosed Garages offer you complete dry entry to your own Unit!! Living level has combination Kitchen/Living room with Ensuite (bedroom w/Private Bathroom w/walk in shower) for easy living! Stainless Appliance pkg and Custom Kitchen
Property Id: 1468447Brand new, centrally located in Kill Devil Hills. $2400/ month includes water, electric, trash, lawn maintenance, and basic internet. There will be a cap on water and electric. Brand new bottom floor unit with 2 bedrooms & 1 bathroom. 1st months rent and security deposit due upon approval of application. 2 parking spots. Pet friendly (one small dog) $350 non-refundable
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