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
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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 58 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.
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.
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,
Timeless character, thoughtful updates, and modern functionality come together beautifully in this stunning Colonial-inspired home in Tarboro. Lovingly updated and meticulously maintained by the current owners, the property blends historic charm with the comforts and conveniences of everyday living. From the moment you arrive, the home's striking architecture and fabulous landscaping make a
Tucked away and set back off the road, this immaculately maintained home in Edgecombe County offers peaceful living with a picturesque setting. Enjoy your mornings or unwind in the evenings on the spacious front porch, perfectly positioned to take in the surrounding views. Inside, the home features a thoughtful layout with a generously sized owner's suite, providing a comfortable retreat. The
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
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
A timeless historic residence located in Tarboro's Historic District and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This exceptional home offers 4 bedrooms and 2.5 baths with refined architectural details and a thoughtful layout designed for both entertaining and everyday living. Refinished original heart-pine floors, soaring ceilings, detailed molding, crown molding, and original
Welcome to this charming three-bedroom, one-bath home just minutes from downtown Tarboro, local shopping, and popular restaurants. This property is a great opportunity for investors or first-time homebuyers looking for value and convenience. The home features a spacious front porch, a newer roof, and a newer hot water heater for added peace of mind. Inside, you'll find a large kitchen with plenty
Built in 1900, this home has 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, wood floors, updated kitchen, cedar closet, central air, and all the charm of a Main Street historic home with a side view to the town commons. The home is located on a corner lot at the intersection of Main Street and Park Avenue. The side of the house faces the town common in the Tarboro Historic District Tarboro. Historic preservationists
Real Broker LLC does not hold EMD! All buyers are to be escorted by their agents. Great opportunity to own a 0.32-acre vacant residential lot in the established community of Tarboro. This cleared corner lot offers excellent potential for building your dream home or an investment property. The property features convenient public road frontage with municipal water and sewer available, making it
PRICE IMPROVEMENT!!Tucked away-Inside the City Limits! This 1.81 acre mostly wooded lot feels like your own private escape. No Restrictions mean you bring your vision to life-- Imagine a Gorgeous Custom Home tucked perfectly within your handpicked tree scape, enough room for his Workshop AND the She-Shed of her dreams. Enjoy the best of both worlds: peaceful surroundings with the convenience
Modern comfort and easy living come together in this move-in ready 4-bedroom, 2-bath home built in 2022, offering a bright, open layout designed for both everyday routines and effortless entertaining. The main living area flows seamlessly into the kitchen and dining space, creating a welcoming environment with room to gather or unwind, while the thoughtfully designed split-bedroom layout places
Welcome to Deerridge Apartments, your new home in the heart of Tarboro, NC. Our community offers a range of amenities designed to enhance your living experience. Dive into our sparkling pool on those hot summer days or enjoy the convenience of having water and sewer services included. Our clubhouse is the perfect place to socialize and meet your neighbors, while our high-speed internet ensures
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
This beautifully updated 3-bedroom, 1 bath home offers 840 sq ft of comfortable living space. Step into freshly painted interior featuring brand new carpet throughout and an open, inviting layout. The updated bathroom includes a modern walk-in shower for added convenience and style.Enjoy relaxing on the open porch or take advantage of the spacious walk-in closet in the primary bedroom. Home
For Rent - 3 Bed / 2 Bath Legacy Home Only $950/Month Looking for a spacious, affordable home in a great community? This 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom Legacy home offers comfort, modern features, and plenty of room for your family - all for just $950 per month. Home Features 3 bedrooms, 2 full bathrooms Open‐concept living and kitchen area Modern Legacy design with efficient layout Primary suite with
For Rent - 3 Bed / 2 Bath Legacy Home Only $950/Month Looking for a spacious, affordable home in a great community? This 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom Legacy home offers comfort, modern features, and plenty of room for your family - all for just $950 per month. Home Features 3 bedrooms, 2 full bathrooms Open‐concept living and kitchen area Modern Legacy design with efficient layout Primary suite with
Move In Ready! Newly renovated 2 bedroom 1 bath cozy home in the heart of Tarboro! Open floorplan featuring new vinyl plank flooring throughout, updated kitchen and appliances. Convenient location. Application approval required. No Smoking. Tour and Apply!
For Rent - 3 Bed / 2 Bath Legacy Home Only $950/Month Looking for a spacious, affordable home in a great community? This 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom Legacy home offers comfort, modern features, and plenty of room for your family - all for just $950 per month. Home Features 3 bedrooms, 2 full bathrooms Open‐concept living and kitchen area Modern Legacy design with efficient layout Primary suite with
Beds: 3Baths: 2Appliances: Stove, RefrigeratorLease Restrictions: Minimum credit score 625Laundry: Washer and Dryer ConnectionsPets: Not allowedUtilities: Town of TarboroHVAC: Central Heat & AirSection 8: Not AcceptedLawn Maintenance: Not IncludedA rental application is REQUIRED for every person that will live in the home 18 years and
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