$532,159Average Value$300Average Price per Sq Ft73Homes 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
Linda Folger,
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 61 days on the market compared to the national average of 57 days. The median sale price for homes in Morehead City, NC over the last 12 months is $425,000, down 2% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
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
LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION! Exceptional corner-lot opportunity in the heart of Morehead City, offering beautiful views of the sound and an enviable coastal setting. Perfectly positioned just moments from the Crystal Coast's pristine beaches, public boat ramps, boutique shopping, and renowned waterfront dining. This premier property presents a rare opportunity to create a custom luxury retreat
Bradberry Garner Real EstateKeller Williams Crystal Coast
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
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
MOVE-IN READY waterfront condo with a PRIVATE BOAT SLIP directly in front, complete with a 16,000 lb. lift (57L x 18W)-- the ultimate setup for effortless coastal living! This beautifully maintained second-floor, fully furnished condo is ready for you to start enjoying from day one. Just bring your suitcase and your boat. Ideally located with easy access to both Downtown Beaufort and Morehead
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 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
Very rarely available, custom built home with waterviews and only a short walk to a full service marina for your boat. All of the advantages of waterfront without flood insurance and the high maintenence. No HOA. This spacious, 5-bedroom, 4.5-bath home offers over 3,700 sq ft of comfortable coastal living with stunning views of Pelletier Creek. On the ground level, you'll find two single-car
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,
Waterfront, gated community of Oak Bluff in the prestigious Brandywine Bay subdivision. This townhouse style condominium boasts views of Bogue Sound from the outdoor patio, leading into the home's large Living Room. The kitchen of this home has been opened up to lead into the Foyer, allowing for more natural light and a more spacious feel. New carpet was installed on the steps and second floor in
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.
This ranch style house on the golf course in Brandywine Bay has been substantially renovated. New kitchen counters, new cabinet doors new appliances, some new flooring, new exterior vinyl, new interior pain and is move in ready. Skylights, 2 car garage, and a fireplace complete the picture. Vacant and easy to show. For information about our preferred lender and the incentives you may qualify for,
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
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.
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
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
Welcome to this beautifully refreshed one-story home at 3503 Mandy Lane in Morehead City, NC. Offering 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 1,566 square feet of living space, and a 2-car garage, this home provides true single-level living with a bright, open floor plan perfect for everyday comfort and entertaining.Inside, you'll find a spacious living room with tall ceilings, a formal dining room, and a
Margaret HitchcockHitchcock Realty & Associates, LLC
$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
Elevated Coastal Living in Oak Bluffs!Experience space, comfort, and style in this expansive 4-bedroom, 4.5-bath condo located in the private, gated community of Oak Bluffs in Morehead City. Featuring new carpet, a stylish bar area perfect for entertaining, and a convenient dishwasher, this home offers the ideal blend of character and everyday functionality. One pet under 30 lbs is welcome!
Welcome home to a charming 2 Bedroom with Bonus Room. Antique home with front and back porches/decks, beautifully located within a 1 block walk to water, walk to local shops, restaurants and the Morehead City waterfront. Enjoy a covered front porch that is perfect for your favorite rocker to enjoy the evening breeze. As you enter the front door you will be taken back to 1910 with the beautiful
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
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