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
Raquel Ricci,
an experienced agent in this area.
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On average, homes in Kill Devil Hills, NC sell after 65 days on the market compared to the national average of 52 days. The median sale price for homes in Kill Devil Hills, NC over the last 12 months is $533,500, consistent with the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Large lot in the secluded Sunrise Crossing community. The open floorplan welcomes you to a spacious living area with stunning sunset views,cozy fireplace with stone surround, and screened porch. The kitchen highlights a center island, granite countertops, elegant white cabinetry, stainless steel appliances, and built in desk area. There is a flex room which could be a bedroom or an office along
Don't miss your chance to own this move-in ready home in a sought after location! This 4 bedroom, 3 bathroom property could be a perfect primary residence or income generating investment home. There are 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, dining area, and full kitchen upstairs. Downstairs you will find a second kitchen, bedroom, full bathroom, and sitting area. There are 2 separate entrances so the spaces
Modern Coastal Oceanfront Retreat – Built 2023 *Almost $320K for 2025 rentals*Step into this stunning oceanfront home, completed in 2023, where contemporary design meets luxurious coastal living. Expansive 12-foot-wide sliding doors open to panoramic 180 ocean views, while a curtain wall of glass showcases breathtaking sunsets. The open living and dining area, with soaring 11-foot shiplap
Charming Totally Renovated Outer Banks Cottage in the Heart of Kill Devil Hills! Step into Coastal Perfection with this adorable three bedroom, two bath home. En-Suite has bath with tub/shower and walk-in closet - a roomy private oasis. The home sparkles with fresh updates - NEW paint, flooring and modern lighting! New metal fortified roof 2024 for peace of mind for years to come! The open
Welcome to your brand-new waterfront oasis, completed in October 2024! This stunning custom-built home is a boater's paradise, featuring deep water access to the sound, a brand new private dock and 10,000-pound boat lift. The Timbertech decking adds both beauty and durability to your outdoor waterfront experience.Step inside to discover a gourmet kitchen equipped with a luxurious AGA
Property Id: 1468439Centrally located in Kill Devil Hills. $2600/ month includes water, electric, lawn maintenance, and internet. There will be a cap on water and electric. Brand new top floor unit with 2 bedrooms & 2 bathrooms. 1st months rent and security deposit due upon approval of application. LVT throughout entire home with spacious living room and kitchen. Front and back decks. 3
This 3-bedroom home in Kill Devil Hills, NC, offers everything you need for an amazing vacation. With a hot tub, outdoor projector, and seasonal community pool, you'll feel at home in this prime location. The property features ample parking and is dog-friendly, making it perfect for families.Nestled in the heart of Kill Devil Hills, this charming 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom coastal retreat is
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