Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Atlantic Beach, NC
Dreaming of life by the beach? Atlantic Beach, NC, is a small coastal town with a population of about 1,600, offering scenic ocean views, a mild climate with 67% sunny days, and a median home price around $522,000. The cost of living is moderately above the national average, but crime rates—especially property crime—are higher than average for the region. Residents enjoy short 19-minute commutes, good access to healthcare, and quality schools nearby, making Atlantic Beach a relaxed, scenic choice for those seeking a slower pace and coastal living.
Demographics - Atlantic Beach, NC
Demographics - Atlantic Beach, NC
Atlantic Beach is a small, close-knit community of about 1,600 people, with a median age of 55.4, reflecting its appeal to retirees and those seeking a quieter lifestyle. The town is predominantly White, with a balanced gender ratio and a modest proportion of non-English speakers, creating a friendly and welcoming atmosphere.
Population:
1,595
Density:
740 per sq mi
Median Age:
55.4
Gender Ratio:
102 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
4.6%
Ethnic Composition
White:
94.1%
Black:
1.1%
Asian:
1.4%
Others:
3.4%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Atlantic Beach, NC?
Living in Atlantic Beach comes at a moderately higher cost, with a median home value of $522,000 and a cost of living index above the national average. Housing and healthcare are pricier here, but everyday expenses like groceries and utilities remain fairly typical for the region.
Median House Value:
$522,000
Gross Rent:
$1,295
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$130
Auto Insurance:
$1,120
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$2,015
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$725
State Taxes:
Low:
5.25%
|
High:
5.25%
Cost Of Living Index:
111.5
Grocery:
98.2
Housing:
138.3
Utilities:
102.0
Transportation:
96.1
Health Care:
108.4
Miscellaneous:
97.8
Crime
Is Atlantic Beach, NC a safe place to live?
Atlantic Beach offers a generally safe environment, with a low violent crime rate—about 153 incidents per 100,000 people—though property crime is more common, with a 1 in 35 chance. Residents enjoy peace of mind but should still take standard precautions to protect their homes and belongings.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
153
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,850
Crime Index:
3,003
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 650
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 35
Weather
What is the weather like in Atlantic Beach, NC year-round?
The town enjoys a mild, coastal climate, with warm summers averaging highs around 87°F and winters rarely dipping below 38°F. With 67% sunny days and about 59 inches of annual rainfall, Atlantic Beach is perfect for those who love outdoor living and ocean breezes.
Winter
Min:
38°F
Max:
57°F
Spring
Min:
54°F
Max:
74°F
Summer
Min:
72°F
Max:
87°F
Fall
Min:
57°F
Max:
76°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
59 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
67%
Neighbors
Residents benefit from a solid community with a median household income of $72,350 and a low poverty rate of 7%. The majority have at least a high school diploma, commute times are short at under 19 minutes, and public transportation use is minimal, highlighting the area's relaxed, small-town feel.
Median Income:
$39,400
Household Income:
$72,350
Family Income:
$91,000
Per Capita Income:
$54,300
Income Male:
$53,500
Income Female:
$40,200
Poverty Rate:
7.0%
Non English Speakers:
4.6%
Rent:
$1,295
Unemployment Rate:
3.9%
Public Transport Usage:
0.6%
Commute Time:
18.7 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
96.1%
Bachelors or More:
48.5%
Education
How are the schools in Atlantic Beach, NC?
Families have access to quality public schools nearby, including Morehead City Middle and Primary Schools with favorable student-to-teacher ratios, as well as private and higher education options like Carteret Community College just a few miles away. The town’s high educational attainment reflects its well-educated and engaged community.
Public Schools
Name:
Morehead City Middle School
Street:
400 Barbour Rd
Phone:
252-726-1126
Students:
520
Student Teacher Ratio:
16.5
Name:
Morehead City Primary School
Street:
4409 Country Club Rd
Phone:
252-247-2448
Students:
500
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.8
Private Schools
Name:
Saint Egbert Catholic School
Street:
1705 Evans St, Morehead City
Phone:
252-726-3418
Students:
150
Colleges
Name:
Carteret Community College
City:
Morehead City
State:
NC
Distance:
3 miles
Students:
1,600
Healthcare
Atlantic Beach provides good healthcare access, with Carteret Health Care just a short drive away and over 91% of residents covered by health insurance. The area boasts an above-average number of physicians per capita, ensuring quality medical care for locals.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Carteret Health Care
Address:
3500 Arendell St, Morehead City, NC 28557
Phone:
(252) 499-6000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.3%
Health Care Index:
77.4
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Atlantic Beach, NC?
The housing market is robust, with a median home price of $522,000 and 72% of residents owning their homes. Property values have seen healthy appreciation at 8.1% over the past year, while rental options remain available but limited, leading to a higher vacancy rate.
Median Home Price:
$522,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,295
Owner Occupied Rate:
72.4%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
15.7%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
8.1%
New Construction Rate:
2.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.6%
DMV Information
Residents handle licensing and vehicle registration through the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles, with comprehensive services available online and in-person at the Raleigh office. The DMV provides all standard services for drivers and vehicle owners statewide.
State:
North Carolina
Department:
North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles
Address:
1100 New Bern Ave, Raleigh, NC 27697
Phone:
919-715-7000
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.