$532,604Average Value$304Average Price per Sq Ft72Homes For Sale
Once a bustling port city, now a popular vacation spot
In the mid-1800s, North Carolina Gov. John Motley Morehead implemented a plan to create a port city for the state. In February 1861, Morehead City was incorporated. What started as agricultural land in the 1700s grew into a major exchange hub. Morehead City had steady population and economic growth until many residents fled during the Civil War. In the years following the war, the county became a popular vacation spot known as the Crystal Coast. But for the nearly 10,000 people who now live here permanently, the city offers a variety of homes, a highly rated school district and plenty of outdoor recreation. While locals have to travel a few miles south to get to the beaches, Morehead City offers lower-priced homes compared to nearby coastal communities. “You're still close to the beach, but you have lower taxes than you would in Atlantic Beach,” says Kathy Myers, a Realtor with RE/MAX Homestead Swansboro, who’s been selling homes in the area for over a decade.
Today, tourism is Carteret County’s main source of revenue. Retail, health care and food services make up the top industries in the area. Other major employers in Morehead City include the North Carolina Port, the U.S. Coast Guard station at Fort Macon and Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, which is 15 miles north.
Brandywine Bay is divided by North Carolina Highway 24, resulting in two sections.
You can head to Atlantic Beach to enjoy a day of sun and waves.
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Variety of home styles, townhouses and condos
Homebuyers can find early- to mid-1900s Craftsman and cottage-style homes, ranch-style houses and colonials from the late-1900s and contemporary homes that are still frequently being built. “There’s a lot of new construction because we’re so close to the military bases,” says Myers. Single-family homes sell for a median price of $475,000, just below the national average and above the state average. The city also offers one- to five-bedroom townhouses and condos that go for a median price of around $375,000.
Townhomes are a popular option in the Brandywine Bay neighborhood.
Many of the homes on the Sound Side enjoy beautiful views of Bogue Sound.
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Highly rated Carteret County schools, Carteret Community College
Students are served by Carteret County Public Schools, which earns an A-minus from Niche and is ranked in the top 15 districts in the state. Around 8,000 students attend nine elementary schools, five middle schools and four high schools. Carteret Community College’s campus is also in the city with over a dozen undergraduate programs.
The Morehead City Primary School has just over 545 students.
The Morehead City Middle School has a student-teacher ratio of 14 to 1.
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Miles of sandy beaches, Fort Macon State Park
Bogue Sound separates Morehead City from the beach, but the sandy coast is just 2 miles south across Atlantic Beach Bridge. Also just to the south, Fort Macon State Park’s more than 400 acres include sandy trails, fishing inlets and a preserved fort to explore. Back in the city, there are several marinas to dock boats for easy access to nearby waterways. And Shevans Park has a large playground, tennis courts and a picnic area.
The Atlantic Beach is only a 10 minute drive from Brandywine Bay.
The surrounding community of Brandywine Bay is rooted in the commercial fishing industry.
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Shopping centers along Interstate 42
Most shopping and dining are concentrated along Interstate 42. In the city's west end, there’s several big-box stores, grocery markets, and chain retailers. The Friendly Market has local products and prepped meals. Local restaurants can also be found throughout the city, with popular options serving seafood and American favorites. “El’s Drive-In, which has been in business for what seems like a million years, was just renovated,” says Myers.
You can find fun and beautiful local art and wares at Parsons General Store.
Brandywine Bay is only a mile away from many of the big box stores.
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Annual events on the Crystal Coast
Events are held throughout the year on the Crystal Coast. In February, the Carolina Chocolate Festival is held at the Crystal Coast Civic Center in Morehead City. The Emerald Isle St. Patrick's Festival, which has been running for over 25 years, features local vendors, food trucks and amusement rides. And in November, the Beaufort Pirate Invasion, which started in 1960, sees the nearby town invaded with reenactors commemorating a battle with Spanish privateers in 1747.
Flooding concerns, discounted insurance premiums
With its coastal location, flooding is a big concern for the city during hurricanes and storm surges. As of June 2024, Morehead City gets a class five rating from the National Flood Insurance Program’s Community Rating System, making residents eligible for a 25% discount on flood insurance premiums.
Commuting on Interstate 42
Commuters can take Interstate 42, also considered U.S. Route 70, to get in and out of Morehead City. Carteret Health Care is in the city's center, and Coastal Carolina Regional Airport is 30 miles north.
Written By
Logan Soter-Reardon
Photography Contributed By
Ryan Gwilliam
Video By
Ellie Brown
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Keith Buckhold,
an experienced agent in this area.
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.
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On average, homes in Morehead City, NC sell after 58 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Morehead City, NC over the last 12 months is $415,000, down 1% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Experience coastal living at it's finest in this beautiful home with breathtaking sound views and access to a vibrant waterfront community. Enjoy the convenience of the neighborhood boat dock and water access, perfect for boating, kayaking, and sunset strolls. Inside, the home features a desirable open floor plan ideal for entertaining and everyday living, full of natural light and seamless flow
Charming & Move-In Ready 3BR/2BA Ranch with Garage This beautifully maintained home offers the perfect blend of comfort and functionality. Step inside to an inviting open-concept living space featuring luxury vinyl plank flooring, a cozy wood-burning fireplace, and a modern kitchen with stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, and a pantry for extra storage. The enclosed sunroom provides
Buy The Beach Re Carla AbeeKeller Williams Crystal Coast
Welcome to this meticulously maintained home on 2 lots in the treasured location of the Promise Land. Enjoy stunning water front views of the ICW on the wrap around porches. Walk to shopping ,restaurants and the Morehead City Waterfront in just a few minutes. This 3 bedroom home with open floor plan boasts a fantastic kitchen with massive island for entertaining friends and family. The appliances
Judy FergusonLandmark Sotheby's International Realty
Experience coastal living at it's finest in this beautiful home with breathtaking sound views and access to a vibrant waterfront community. Enjoy the convenience of the neighborhood boat dock and water access, perfect for boating, kayaking, and sunset strolls. Inside, the home features a desirable open floor plan ideal for entertaining and everyday living, full of natural light and seamless flow
Nestled in Morehead Bluffs, just behind 70W Marina, this impeccably maintained 3BR, 2BA residence offers the perfect blend of coastal charm and modern comfort. Positioned on a high lot outside of the flood zone, you can enjoy a sneak peek of Bogue Sound from the covered front porch--an ideal setting for morning coffee. Newly updated features include carpet in the primary bedroom, LVP flooring in
CONDO including a BOAT SLIP w/24,000 lb. LIFT! Meticulously maintained fourth-floor condo with exceptional rental income! Offering sweeping views of the sound, creek, and ICW, providing an unparalleled setting for relaxation and leisure. With a spacious 3-bedroom, 2-bath layout, this home boasts a modern, updated kitchen featuring sleek quartz countertops, a brand-new HVAC system, water heater,
Stunning 4-bedroom, 3.5-bathroom home nestled on Hole 15 of the Brandywine Bay Golf Course in the desirable gated community of Brandywine Bay. Situated on 0.39 acres, this beautifully maintained home offers a perfect blend of comfort, elegance, and breathtaking golf course views.Step inside to find vaulted ceilings and an open-concept floor plan that seamlessly connects the living and dining
Build your dream home on this gorgeous 80 x 125 lot in one of Morehead City's most sought-after neighborhoods. Enjoy water views of Pelletier Creek and the benefit of no flood insurance required. The location is unbeatable—close to shops, dining, and schools, and just a short walk to multiple marinas and dry stack boat storage. And the beaches of the Crystal Coast are just a short drive away.
Welcome home to this well-designed 3-bedroom residence in an established, desirable Morehead City community. Each bedroom features a walk-in closet, offering ample storage and comfortable living space. The open-concept kitchen, dining, and living areas create a bright, inviting layout ideal for both everyday living and entertaining. Enjoy time outdoors on the screened-in back porch overlooking a
Calling all investors! This prime commercial land offers an exceptional investment opportunity in the heart of Morehead City. Boasting a strategic location with high visibility and easy access, this property is perfect for a variety of commercial developments. Currently zoned OP (Office/Professional) Uses include medical, office, hospitality, education, and many more!
Discover a beautiful residential lot in the highly desired Morehead City area, offering tranquil water views of the Pelletier Creek. This 90 x 125 homesite is dotted with large oak trees and requires no flood insurance, giving you peace of mind. Conveniently located near shopping, restaurants, and schools, it's also just a short walk to several marinas and dry stack boat storage. The area is a
Meticulously maintained fourth-floor condo offers sweeping views of the sound, creek, and ICW, providing an unparalleled setting for relaxation and leisure. With a spacious 3-bedroom, 2-bath layout, this home boasts a modern, updated kitchen featuring sleek quartz countertops, a brand-new HVAC system, water heater, and stylish LVP flooring and tile throughout. The beautifully furnished interior
FRESHLY UPDATED just for you! Neutral paint, quartz counters, a new dishwasher and stove, plus new porch furniture give this 4 bed / 4 bath sound-view home a bright, updated feel from the moment you walk in. The warm white walls further brighten and enhance the already spacious and well-lit main-living floor, while the complimenting light quartz counters transform the kitchen into an inviting
Coastal charm meets endless possibilities. Set within South Shores waterfront community, this spacious 3-bedroom + office/flex space, 2.5-bath home in Morehead City offers a laid-back coastal lifestyle. Positioned on a second-row corner lot, this home has a large covered front porch to enjoy easy breezes, and an expansive interior layout provides ample room for gatherings. Convenience meets
Experience effortless coastal luxury in this one-year-old marina front townhome in one of the area's newest and most desirable waterfront communities on the Crystal Coast, Inlet Cove. Designed for both comfort and entertaining, this stunning 4-bedroom, 4.5-bath residence comes fully furnished inside and out, making it completely move-in ready. From the moment you step inside, you'll appreciate
Arbors at Morehead City is a brand-new apartment community in Morehead City, NC, offering modern 1- and 2-bedroom apartment homes designed for effortless coastal living. Our pet-friendly community features smart home technology and contemporary finishes, all with easy access to Carteret County beaches, marinas, shopping, and waterfront dining. Experience luxury apartment living on the Crystal
Adorable cottage located at the end of quiet cul-de-sac in sound front community. Kitchen, living, and dining room make up an open floor plan flooded with natural light. First floor principal bedroom with plenty of closet space. An additional two bedrooms and full bath upstairs with plenty of storage via three walk in attics. Convenient to Hwy 24 and 70, marinas, shopping, restaurants, medical,
The Preserve at Carteret Place Apartments in Morehead City, NCExperience upscale living at The Preserve at Carteret with 1-, 2-, and 3-bedroom apartments featuring granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, smart thermostats, and in-unit washer and dryer.Enjoy resort-style amenities including a pool, fitness center with yoga room, dog park with grooming station, fire pits,
Coastal Convenience Just Minutes from the Shore!Discover comfort and style in this inviting 2-bedroom, 1.5-bath townhome located just minutes from Atlantic Beach. The bright main living area flows into a well-appointed kitchen, while a private patio offers the perfect spot to relax or enjoy the fresh coastal air. Upstairs, two spacious bedrooms and a full bath that provides a comfortable
Experience modern living at The Retreat at Carteret Place with 1- and 2-bedroom apartments featuring high ceilings, granite countertops, stainless steel Energy Star appliances, and smart tech including keyless entry and smart thermostats.Enjoy resort-style amenities including a pool with cabana, outdoor grills, dog parks, fire pit, 24-hour fitness center, business center, club room, and
Charming Townhome in the Heart of Morehead City!This inviting 2-bedroom, 1.5-bath townhome offers a comfortable layout with a bright living space, a well-equipped kitchen with a dishwasher, and a private patio perfect for quiet mornings or relaxed evenings. Enjoy the added ease of pest control, lawn care, and trash service included, along with convenient on-site parking. Ideally situated in
At Haven at Wild Dunes, every day feels like a vacation.Perfectly positioned just over a mile from the ocean and moments from local shopping, dining, and recreation, our seaside community offers the ideal blend of comfort, convenience, and coastal charm. With 16 thoughtfully designed floor plans across 228 apartment homes, you’re sure to find the perfect fit for your lifestyle.Inside, you’ll
Embrace the ease of coastal living in this inviting 2-bedroom, 1.5-bath townhome located just minutes from Atlantic Beach. The bright main living area flows seamlessly into a functional kitchen, creating a welcoming space for everyday living. Upstairs, two spacious bedrooms and a full bath provide a peaceful retreat. Step outside to your private patio, perfect for enjoying warm coastal breezes or
Property Id: 2205024Brand new one bedroom studio condo in the heart of downtown Morehead. King size bed and a queen pullout sofa. Fully furnished with reserved parking for one. Code lock secures building entrance for extra security. Experience living right on the waterfront and walking distance to many elite restaurants. This condo can rent monthly except during the summer months when it
Prime Location Near Atlantic Beach!This inviting 2-bedroom, 1.5-bath townhome offers the perfect blend of space, comfort, and convenience. The bright main living area flows into a functional kitchen, while upstairs features two spacious bedrooms and a full bath for added privacy. Step outside to your private patio--ideal for relaxing or entertaining. With trash service, lawn care, and pest
Property Id: 600969Must see 2 bedroom, one bath condominium for rent. Newly renovated and fully furnished. All utilities included. Great location.. Close to beach, schools and hospital, shopping, restaurants and downtown Morehead City..
Coastal Comfort Just Minutes from the Beach!This charming 2-bedroom, 1.5-bath townhome offers a relaxed lifestyle in a convenient location close to shopping, dining, and the shoreline. Enjoy quiet mornings or peaceful evenings on your private back patio, along with the added ease of in-home washer and dryer hookups. Trash service, landscaping, and lawn care are all included, allowing you to
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