$549,566Average Value$310Average Price per Sq Ft81Homes 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
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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 53 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in Morehead City, NC over the last 12 months is $433,000, up 2% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
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 pet-friendly. Although pet-friendly, you may not build
50,000 REDUCTION! PRICE IMPROVEMENT!!How about a 2.5% VA Loan Takeover? Only for VA eligible buyers. Book a showing today!!Sunrise, Sunset, Jump in the Pool, Repeat! Beautiful custom built 5 bedroom, 3 1/2 bath home offering luxury coastal living with breathtaking marsh views and unforgettable sunsets-all located in the highly desirable Blair Farm community. Designed for both entertaining
Heather MloganoskiWeichert Realtors At Wave's Edge
To be built. Welcome to the Aruba Bay Plan at Kipling Village by Ryan Homes in Fuquay Varina, NC. This one-level living home has an open concept with spacious bedrooms and cozy living space. This home features Truffle colored cabinets, stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, LVP flooring, and a rear patio. Enjoy a spacious homesite with lawn maintenance included. Kipling Village is
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
Located in the prominent Country Club East community, this exceptional custom-built 2020 residence offers 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, a thoughtfully designed floor plan, impressive craftsmanship, and refined finishes throughout. Wide baseboard trim, shiplap accents, granite countertops, and crisp white cabinetry create a timeless, polished interior. A private office is conveniently located on the main
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
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 pet-friendly. Although pet-friendly, you may not build
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!
Don't miss this opportunity to own a deeded boat slip in the highly sought-after Olde Towne Yacht Club Marina! Ideally located on Radio Island, this deep-water marina offers quick and easy access to Beaufort Inlet, the Intracoastal Waterway, Cape Lookout, Shackleford Banks, offshore fishing, and all the best destinations along the Crystal Coast. Owners enjoy an exceptional lineup of resort-style
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
Below Estimated and Appraisal Value! 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
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
Upon entering the foyer, you will immediately notice the versatility of the space with a flex room to your right. This room offers endless possibilities, whether you envision it as a work-from-home space, a cozy reading nook, or a vibrant playroom. On select homesites, this room can also serve as a private study or a convenient main-level guest suite, providing flexibility for your needs.
Charming 3-bedroom, 1-bath cottage being sold as-is, ready for your vision and updates. Located in a well-established, sought-after neighborhood directly across the street from Bogue Sound, this home offers peaceful water views, water access, and refreshing coastal breezes right from your front yard. Featuring a traditional floorplan with good bones, this fixer-upper is ideal for anyone looking
Check out this premium 58' boat slip at Olde Towne Yacht Club! Set sail from one of the best slips at Olde Towne Yacht Club Marina. This highly desirable end slip on Radio Island is located for convenient access to Beaufort and Morehead City. With stunning views and quality amenities, do not miss this opportunity at slip B19!
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
AVAILABLE SEPTEMBER 1 -- FLEXIBLE 3- TO 6-MONTH LEASE! Enjoy waterfront living in this beautiful, unfurnished creekfront home in the heart of Morehead City. This inviting property offers three bedrooms, two-and-a-half bathrooms, an open floor plan, a two-car garage, a storage shed, and plenty of closet and storage space throughout. The spacious kitchen features abundant cabinetry, generous
Margaret HitchcockHitchcock Realty & Associates, LLC
$1,500 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
Spacious 3 bedrooms 2.5 bath Townhome for Lease in Morehead City, NCVillage Green Community in Brandywine Bay2 levels with stairs and 1 car garage.Bonus- tiled Florida-style sunroomNo Pets
Meredith & Matt Team JohnsonRE/MAX Ocean Properties
$1,795 per month
Charming 2 Bedroom with bonus room home in Historic Downtown Morehead City Walking District! Walk...
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
Charming 3-Bedroom Furnished Home Near Morehead City WaterfrontThis fully furnished 3-bedroom, 1-bath home offers comfort and convenience just minutes from the vibrant Morehead City waterfront. Enjoy easy access to dining, shopping, and coastal attractions while relaxing in a cozy, move-in-ready to call home. 1 Year minimum lease required. Pets negotiable at the homeowner's discretion.
Welcome home to this beautifully refreshed 2-bedroom, 1-bath home in the heart of Morehead City! Featuring fresh new paint, brand-new flooring, updated windows, and a new refrigerator, this bright and inviting home is move-in ready and waiting for you. Ideally located just minutes from Atlantic Beach, the Morehead City waterfront, parks, shopping, dining, and everyday conveniences, you'll love
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