$542,851Average Value$304Average Price per Sq Ft78Homes 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
Ronda Andrese Scott,
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 55 days on the market compared to the national average of 58 days. The median sale price for homes in Morehead City, NC over the last 12 months is $427,500, up 2% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Welcome to 119 Pine Bluff Drive, where luxury living meets coastal charm. Nestled on the sound side of the highly desirable Brandywine Bay gated waterfront community in Morehead City, this designer-renovated coastal retreat showcases sophisticated finishes, thoughtful craftsmanship, and exceptional outdoor living. Featuring timeless cedar shake siding, the home's exterior perfectly complements
B & B Coastal Pr TeamKeller Williams Crystal Coast
Flooring in the living room area is being replaced! The heart of the home shines with a sleek stainless steel kitchen, featuring a nearly new induction range (2024) and a side-by-side refrigerator with filtered water and ice--because even the little luxuries should feel easy.Underfoot, brand-new luxury plank flooring flows through the bedrooms and hallway--beautiful, durable, and perfectly
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!
Are you on the hunt for the ideal home that ticks every box? Search no more because the Sadler Plan is here to amaze you! This beautiful two-story home offers everything you've been dreaming of and more.Upon entering from the front porch, you'll step into an inviting foyer that ushers you directly into the heart of the home. Here, the Sadler Plan shines with its open layout that effortlessly
Welcome home to this beautifully maintained, 3 bedroom 2 and a half bath one-owner property on nearly half an acre, in Morehead City, but OUTSIDE city limits and taxes, where thoughtful updates meet timeless comfort. From the moment you arrive, you'll appreciate the classic curb appeal with plenty of parking, complete with a welcoming front porch and generously spacious front yard. Inside, the
Welcome to this well maintained brick residence in sought-after Brandywine Bay .Offering 3 bedrooms plus a dedicated office ,this home provides the flexibility and space todays buyers desire. Enjoy both formal living and dining rooms ,perfect for entertaining ,while the sunporch offers a relaxing space to unwind and enjoy views of the back yard.The spacious kitchen is designed for everyday
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
The Garland is a perfect embodiment of modern living, offering affordability without compromising on style. Designed with the future family in mind, this innovative layout features a practical pocket office and flex space on both the main and upper level. Ideal for growing families in search of their dream home, this three-bedroom, two-and-a-half-bathroom residence encompasses everything you
As you step into the foyer, you'll be greeted by a spacious and open floor plan that this perfect for modern living. This home boasts 2 secondary bedrooms on the main level, separated by a full bath. As you continue to explore, prepare to be wowed by the expansive kitchen featuring a large island, ample cabinet space, and countertops fit for a chef's delight. The kitchen seamlessly flows into the
Coastal Elegance and Timeless Beauty. This fully updated 1st-floor master, 3-bed, 3-bath home offers exquisite water views from both the front and backyard, blending refined coastal living with exceptional craftsmanship. Reclaimed heart-pine floors throughout the entire first floor, professionally painted hemlock floors upstairs, and professionally painted pine stairs create warmth and
Rebecca QuickCrystal Coast Realty & Home Services, LLC Jacksonville
A million dollar view awaits you from the moment you step in this OTYC 5th floor unit! With three bedrooms and two baths, this unit has plenty of space for full time living or second home fun! Step onto the balcony for a view you have to see to believe. Panoramic water views of Gallants Channel, Newport River and the inlet and ocean beyond. Watch the wild horses roam from your deck chair with
Copeland Bernauer TeamColdwell Banker Sea Coast AB
Nicely maintained Mansfield Park home on a corner lot close to everything! With fresh paint throughout, this 3BR/2.5BA home is ready to move right in! Living room with fireplace is close to the sunroom that is loaded with sunlight & the perfect spot for entertaining, office space or hobbies; kitchen with pantry & new appliances in 2025, is bright and cheery; 2 guest bedrooms on the main floor
Classic cottage located in Morehead City, just a few blocks from the sandy beach area. Recent updates include a renovated kitchen, along with the addition of a laundry room and a half bath. Hardwood floors run throughout most of the home, adding warmth and coastal charm. The kitchen features a mix of wood-grain and white cabinetry, quartz countertops, a tile backsplash, sleek white appliances,
Now available for rent in the heart of Morehead City, on a quaint cul-de-sac! This beautifully updated home offers the space, comfort, and modern finishes you've been searching for. Inside, you'll find updated flooring throughout, a completely refreshed kitchen featuring new cabinetry, countertops, and appliances, and updated bathrooms with stylish contemporary fixtures. Need extra room? The
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
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,
Lovely apartment community. Unit has 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and is freshly painted. Updated appliances, and LVP flooring throughout common areas. Carpet in bedrooms. Tenants enjoy a free membership to the local Sports Center that has an indoor and an outdoor pool, sauna, jacuzzi, large gym with state-of-the-art equipment.
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
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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
Exceptional rental opportunity in the highly desirable Brandywine Bay community, offering space, comfort, and beautiful golf course views. This fully remodeled 5-bedroom home features four bedrooms with private en-suite baths, plus two additional half baths, making it ideal for multigenerational living, guests, or flexible coastal living.The first floor offers four spacious bedrooms,
Available Between October 2026 through May 2027 - Fully Furnished & All Inclusive! 3 Bedroom 1.5 Bath upper-level duplex FOR RENT in the charming Promise Land of Morehead City, NC! This shore house features a unique floor plan, covered front porch & beautiful coastal accents perfect for an off-season snowbird stay on the Crystal Coast! The Cottage is conveniently located within a short distance
Danielle RoseBig Rock Real Estate & Property Management
$1,695 per month
Charming Two Bedroom Home in Historic Morehead City Walking District with Dining Area and Living ...
Charming two bedroom one bath home with separate dining area and living room and shaded, fenced yard. Just painted and recently installed luxury plank flooring and vanity with new butcher block area installed in counters. Located in the heart of the Historic Downtown Town of Morehead City Walking District (located in Carteret County). The home is one block away from the beautiful water view and
FOR RENT IN CARRIAGE CROSSING - A wonderful Townhome community with a neighborhood pool! You will love this charming one level 2bedroom/2 full bath townhome with a screened in back porch. All kitchen appliances and washer/dryer included. Directly in the heart of Morehead City and conveniently located across the street from the Sports Center Gym and just a short distance to schools, community boat
Danielle RoseBig Rock Real Estate & Property Management
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