Tarboro is a small Edgecombe County town resting along the banks of the Tar River in Eastern North Carolina. Life here often includes going to baseball games, enjoying concerts downtown and floating along the river. “You can build your life how you want,” says Tarboro native Mayor Tate Mayo. “It’s a great little cozy place where you can be yourself, relax, and when you need to get out that rambunctiousness, you don’t have far to go.” The town is a few hours’ drive from any beach along the North Carolina coast, and the capital city of Raleigh is roughly 70 miles west. Mayo adds that one of Tarboro’s claims to fame is that it has one of the oldest town commons in the United States. “Technically, by the town charter, you can still graze your animals from sunup to sunset on the Town Common. I haven’t seen anybody do that, but I’d love to see that one day,” Mayo says. Agriculture has long been Edgecombe County's main economic driver, and until the late 1800s, Tarboro was a hub for riverboat trade. Today, manufacturers and healthcare are top industries. A lower cost of living and walkable downtown is helping this community of nearly 11,000 people grow.
The Tar River, in Tarboro, is named after the area's pine forests, which were a source of tar.
War artifacts are on display at Town Common in Tarboro.
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Low home prices and a history of flooding
The median price for a single-family home in Tarboro is around $215,000, roughly half the national median. Historic properties sit in view of the Town Common, while Colonial Revival, Modern Transitional and ranch-style homes are found throughout. Most properties sit along short blocks, but the town’s newest subdivisions break away from the urban grid pattern.
Tarboro has dealt with severe flooding as a riverside town with creeks and a canal. Hurricane Floyd in 1999 left nearly half of Edgecombe County under water. Flooding occurred again following Hurricane Matthew in 2016. As a result, the town, in conjunction with the state and federal government, has purchased most of the flooded lots. Town ordinances were strengthened to limit development in 500-year flood zones. Homeowners are encouraged to purchase flood insurance and register for emergency notifications.
A row of historic homes situated just outside of Downtown Tarboro.
Remains of how high water has risen at time can be seen on this river bank in Tarboro.
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A love for sporting events and a Colonial-era Town Common
A little less than half of Tarboro residents are within a 10-minute walk of a park. These green spaces range from the 15-acre Town Common, popular for pickleball and quiet strolls, to the Indian Lake Sports Complex, which buzzes with baseball and softball tournaments. The Tarboro River Bandits, a summer collegiate baseball team, plays at Tarboro Municipal Stadium.
The town has two public access points for the Tar River. “Folks put in a kayak, canoe or paddleboard and float down the river for the better part of the day,” says Mayo, who adds that the annual Hickory Shad Tournament draws out dozens of anglers of all ages every March to see who can reel in the biggest fish.
The historic Tarboro Municipal Stadium is the former home of minor league teams and current home of the Tarboro High School Vikings and the Tarboro River Bandits.
War artifacts are on display at Town Common in Tarboro.
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Tarboro is home to the largest historic district in North Carolina
The walkable Tarboro Historic District is recognized for its size, stretching north of the Tar River for 45 blocks. Main Street anchors this downtown, where red brick sidewalks pass by small businesses, the county’s first brewery and several restaurants. Next to Tarboro Town Hall is the Edgecombe County Veteran's Military Museum, which explores the region’s military history and honors more than 1,200 area veterans with a wall of portraits. Courthouse Square hosts community events, such as the annual New Year’s Eve Downtown Countdown, which rings in the new year with live music, food and drinks. Shopping centers dot the west side of town for everyday needs, while indoor malls and big-box stores are nearby Rocky Mount and Greenville.
Stop by Tarboro Brewing Company for a cold brew, it's the first brewery in the county.
On The Square is a favorite restaurant among locals in Tarboro.
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Locally made art adorns the Blount-Bridgers House
The Blount-Bridgers House, a Federal-style home from the early 1800s with a wrap-around porch, is the home base for the Tarboro-Edgecombe Public Arts Commission. Inside is the Hobson Pittman Memorial Gallery, which showcases contemporary works and historical artifacts. The town’s art scene includes the Tar River Players, a theater troupe that puts on four shows annually and offers summer theater camps. Happening on the Common is the town’s art festival held each May, and the Downtown Live summer concert series fills Courthouse Square with live music.
The Blount-Bridgers House, in Tarboro, was built in 1808 and has been restored to a museum.
This plaque at the Blount-Bridgers House tells the history of this Tarboro home.
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Edgecombe County Public Schools offers a head start on higher education
Edgecombe County Public Schools serves Tarboro and receives a C-plus overall rating from Niche. It has more than 5,300 students. Of its 20 schools, Edgecombe Early College High stands out. The A-rated school, located within Edgecombe Community College, offers students the ability to earn an associate’s degree and a diploma.
The Tarboro High School is the home of the Vikings.
Edgecombe Community College is a 2 year college, located in Tarboro.
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A short drive to Interstate 95, an increase in crime
Area highways lead to Interstate 95 and larger cities nearby. Rocky Mount is about 15 miles west, and Greenville is about 30 miles south. Pitt-Greenville Airport offers daily flights to Charlotte, but residents typically head roughly 85 miles west to Raleigh-Durham International Airport for most air travel. While there’s no bus system to get around town, Tarboro does have a Greyhound bus station for long-distance trips.
According to FBI data, the number of violent crimes in Tarboro spiked from 23 in 2022 to 73 in 2023. During that same time, the number of property crimes increased from 126 to 274.
Written By
DeeVa Payne
Photography Contributed By
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Video By
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On average, homes in Tarboro, NC sell after 287 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Tarboro, NC over the last 12 months is $104,000, up 420% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Experience the charm of this circa 1902-1909 Neo-Classical home, listed on the National Historic Register, in the charming town of Tarboro, NC. This stunning residence blends historic craftsmanship with modern upgrades, offering 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, and 4,578 sq ft of luxurious living space. Gourmet Kitchen: Features a wine and ice drawer refrigerator, Wolf double oven, 8-burner gas range,
Fully renovated and packed with upgrades.This home is a must-see! It's Situated on a peaceful street with a generous 0.36-acre lot, this home offers the perfect blend of comfort and style. Enjoy a spacious deck made for entertaining and a fully fenced backyard for ultimate privacy. Step inside to an open kitchen featuring granite countertops, new cabinets, tile backsplash, and sleek stainless
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this classic bungalow is ideally situated within walking distance of Tarboro's riverfront parks. The layout offers an easy flow, and the inviting front porch is tailor-made for rocking chairs and relaxation. What a rare opportunity to restore a historic gem to its original splendor, this property would make a beautiful home or standout Air B&B.
This charming home can be found in the Historic district, downtown Tarboro and is noted on the historic district map as Lichtenstein-Thigpen House. The national registry plaque identifies it as Cotton-Lichtenstein House ca.1875. The current owner bought this vacant home with vision and determination. Their eye for design and classic style has brought this 'old home' back to life and it is shining
This isn't just a house; it's a sanctuary designed for gracious living and effortless hospitality. Nestled on 1.25 acres of tranquil land, this custom-built, 4-bedroom, 3.5-bathroom dream home is offered completely furnished, ready for you to begin your new chapter. The Heart of the Home: A chef's kitchen boasts granite countertops, dual cooktops with vent hoods, and a double oven?perfect for
A timeless historic residence in Tarboro's Historic District and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This exceptional home offers 4 bedrooms, and 21⁄2 baths, with refined architectural details and a thoughtful layout designed for both entertaining and everyday living. Richly refinished original heart-pine floors, high ceilings, detailed molding, crown molding, and original windows
Nice opportunity to own .87 acre of land in Edgecombe County located on Jenkins Street near NC Hwy 33. This parcel offers a peaceful country setting while still being convenient to Tarboro, Rocky Mount, and surrounding areas. Ideal for a site-built home, investment, or future development (buyer to confirm zoning and permitted uses). Property is believed to be outside city limits, offering
Tremendous value in this beautiful 4-bedroom home located in the desirable Forest Acres community. From the moment you enter, you're welcomed by a grand two-story foyer, gleaming hardwood floors, and a central staircase that sets the tone for the rest of the home. To the right, the formal living and dining rooms showcase classic crown molding and a neutral color scheme, creating an inviting space
Step inside to a welcoming foyer that sets the tone for this beautiful 3-bedroom, 2-bath home. Inside, you'll find stunning porcelain tile flooring in the living room, complemented by updated plank flooring throughout the rest of the home. The spacious layout offers large rooms, custom-built cabinets, and a warm, inviting feel that is both comfortable and functional. Outside, enjoy the best of
This 4-bedroom, 2-bath home in Tarboro offers 1,360 sq ft of potential for the right buyer. The layout provides a solid foundation with spacious living areas and flexible bedroom options. Ideal for investors or buyers looking to renovate and add value. The property sits on a manageable lot with great potential to create your ideal outdoor space. Conveniently located near local shops and amenities.
Well-maintained manufactured home situated on 0.69 acres just outside of Tarboro with convenient access to US-258. This 3-bedroom, 2-bath home, built in 2000, offers a functional floor plan with comfortable living spaces. Features include a spacious living area, ample kitchen cabinetry, and a split bedroom layout for added privacy. Durable metal roof installed in 2019. Plenty of outdoor space for
Deerridge offers spacious 1, 2, and 3 bedroom garden-style apartments and townhomes. Enjoy bright, open floor plans, fully equipped kitchens, and a peaceful community setting. Conveniently located near local shops, dining, and major roadways, our community provides comfort and convenience in the heart of Tarboro.
Upscale Townhome with River Views in the Heart of Historic Tarboro Experience elevated small town living in this beautifully appointed Tarboro townhome, where modern finishes meet the warmth and character of one of North Carolina's most charming communities. Thoughtfully designed and impeccably maintained, this residence offers both comfort and convenience just steps from everything downtown has
Property Id: 2298169Welcome to your new home at 723 Bradley Ave in Tarboro, NC! This charming 3 bedroom, 1 bathroom single family home features modern amenities including a new refrigerator, new oven, and washer/dryer hookups. In addition, it has a screened in sun porch in the rear which allows for quiet and relaxing times that is very discreetWith a spacious driveway and central
Sign in by April 17, Get 4 Weeks Free! Embrace the charm of small-town living at Spencer's Woods. Spencer's Woods offers the perfect balance of tranquility and convenience in the welcoming town of Tarboro, North Carolina. Just 20 minutes east of Rocky Mount and 35 minutes north of Greenville, this community is ideally situated for easy access to nearby cities while allowing you to enjoy the
Discover the timeless charm of Tarboro, North Carolina, where rich history, vibrant culture, and a strong sense of community seamlessly come together. This picturesque town boasts a perfect blend of historic neighborhoods, modern conveniences, and unique attractions, making it an ideal place to live and explore. With its welcoming atmosphere and a variety of local experiences, Tarboro offers the
This property at 701 Henry Ln features 3 bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms within a spacious 1,800 square feet. The living room offers ample space for relaxation and entertainment. The kitchen is equipped with a dishwasher and provides convenient access to the dining area. Each bedroom is designed for comfort, with the master bedroom including an en-suite bathroom. The property also includes a
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