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
Scott Brotherton
Video By
Samantha Houtchens
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Welcome home to this beautifully maintained, move-in ready home in charming Tarboro. Located in a wonderful walkable neighborhood, this property offers the perfect blend of comfort, functionality, and flexibility with a highly desirable floor plan, a main-level primary suite, abundant storage, and future expansion potential. The main level features beautiful hardwood floors, vaulted ceilings,
Well-kept 2 BR/1 bath home ready for its new owners!! Brick ranch with an ADDITIONAL LOT INCLUDED! Located just minutes from the high school, this home has an updated kitchen with an eat-in dining area and room for a home office. Two spacious bedrooms boast original hardwood floors as does the living area. Behind the one-car carport is a screened porch and outside are two storage buildings, one
Welcome to your private country retreat! Nestled on 41 picturesque acres this exceptional 4 bedroom, 4.5 bath farmhouse offers the perfect blend of timeless charm, modern conveniences, and ample outdoor opportunities.Step through the welcoming foyer into the beautifully designed and well maintained home. Spacious living areas include a formal dining room, cozy family room with gas log
**Income Potential with separate apartment** 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 has an eye for design and classic style and they have brought this 'old home' back to life! Just a few
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
Completely renovated (2018), this stunning home offers an open, split-bedroom floor plan with no carpet throughout. Enjoy relaxing mornings on the inviting front porch or back patio--perfect for rocking chairs or a porch swing. The spacious kitchen is a chef's dream, featuring granite countertops, tile backsplash, eat-at island, gas range, pot filler, double ovens, pantry, and stainless farmhouse
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
Completely renovated (2018), this stunning home offers an open, split-bedroom floor plan with no carpet throughout. Enjoy relaxing mornings on the inviting front porch or back patio--perfect for rocking chairs or a porch swing. The spacious kitchen is a chef's dream, featuring granite countertops, tile backsplash, eat-at island, gas range, pot filler, double ovens, pantry, and stainless farmhouse
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 quarter-sawn heart-pine floors, soaring ceilings, detailed molding, crown molding, and
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
Situated on approximately 1.05 acres and surrounded by mature trees for added privacy, this charming 3-bedroom, 1-bath home offers a peaceful setting with convenient access to schools, shopping, Rocky Mount, Greenville, and more. Inside, you'll find a spacious living room, a dining and kitchen combination, a dedicated laundry room, and beautiful original hardwood floors that add warmth and
Welcome home to this beautifully maintained, move-in ready home in charming Tarboro. Located in a wonderful walkable neighborhood, this property offers the perfect blend of comfort, functionality, and flexibility with a highly desirable floor plan, a main-level primary suite, abundant storage, and future expansion potential. The main level features beautiful hardwood floors, vaulted ceilings,
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 unique opportunity to restore a historic gem to its original splendor, this property would make a beautiful home or standout Air
Welcome to this charming four-bedroom, two-bathroom home. This open concept home built just a few years ago in 2021 offers comfortable living space with practical amenities including a convenient one-car garage and a large fenced in back yard. All appliances including refrigerator and washer and dryer. Move in ready!
Property Id: 1506416Beautiful one bedroom apartment fully renovated upgraded with the lates materials very elegant modern ideal for elderly & disable person, students, couples, singles. A very suitable location for a quiet life.
ASK ABOUT OUR ALTERNATIVE SECURITY DEPOSIT OPTIONS!Gorgeous home in a beautiful neighborhood! This spacious 4 bedroom, 2 bathroom single-family home in Tarboro features: Keyless Locks, Smart Thermostat, Primary Suite, Stone Countertops, Stainless Steel Appliances, Open Concept Layout, Washer/Dryer Hook-Ups, Covered Backyard Patio, and Two-Car Garage. Kairos Living has no pet restrictions
Property Id: 1956973This is a very beautiful quiet friendly community with surveillance 24/7 property manager on site laundry open 24/7 all my unit have been fully renovated and fully updated with the lates appliances, very spacious, open kitchen,doble closet, long hallway, walking distance from a connivence store, beautiful back patio to relax or to do a barbecue after a long day of
Property Id: 2022566This is a very beautiful quiet friendly community with surveillance 24/7 property manager on site laundry open 24/7 all my unit have been fully renovated and fully updated with the lates appliances, very spacious, open kitchen,doble closet, long hallway, walking distance from a connivence store, beautiful back patio to relax or to do a barbecue after a long day of
ASK ABOUT OUR ALTERNATIVE SECURITY DEPOSIT OPTIONS!COMING SOON! GORGEOUS HOME IN A BEAUTIFUL NEIGHBORHOOD! This spacious 5 bedroom, 3 bathroom single-family home in Tarboro features: Keyless Locks, Smart Thermostat, Primary Suite, Luxury Flooring, Stone Countertops, Stainless Steel Appliances, Open Concept Layout, Washer/Dryer Hook-Ups, and Two-Car Garage. Kairos Living has no pet
Sign by July 15th, Get 2 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
Property Id: 1781636This is a very beautiful quiet friendly community with surveillance 24/7 property manager on site laundry open 24/7 all my unit have been fully renovated and fully updated with the lates appliances, very spacious, open kitchen,doble closet, long hallway, walking distance from a connivence store, beautiful back patio to relax or to do a barbecue after a long day of
**Must meet income and credit qualifications before scheduling a tour of the property**Welcome home to this beautifully maintained 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom brick ranch offering the perfect blend of timeless mid-century charm and modern updates. Featuring gorgeous hardwood floors throughout, spacious living areas, and two cozy fireplaces, this home provides both comfort and
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
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Available early July 2026 - accepting applications nowJoin the WAIT LIST to be notified when showings beginBeds: 2Baths: 1Appliances: New Stove and New Refrigerator will be providedFeatures: COMPLETE renovation, new sheetrock, new flooring, new doors, new cabinetsLease Restrictions: Minimum credit score 600Laundry: NONEPets: Not allowedUtilities: Town of
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