Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Cape Carteret, NC
Considering a move to Cape Carteret, NC? This peaceful coastal community of about 2,500 residents offers a relaxed lifestyle with a median home price of $420,000 and average rent around $1,350. Enjoy a low violent crime rate (85 per 100K), short 26-minute average commutes, and access to quality schools and healthcare in neighboring Morehead City. With 63% sunny days, mild winters, and abundant outdoor activities, Cape Carteret is ideal for those seeking small-town charm along the Crystal Coast.
Demographics - Cape Carteret, NC
Demographics - Cape Carteret, NC
Cape Carteret is a small, close-knit coastal town of about 2,500 residents, with a median age of 54.3, reflecting a mature and settled community. The population is predominantly White, and the area maintains a balanced gender ratio and a low proportion of non-English speakers. With a moderate population density, newcomers can expect a peaceful, neighborly atmosphere.
Population:
2,500
Density:
690 per sq mi
Median Age:
54.3
Gender Ratio:
96 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
3.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
94.1%
Black:
1.6%
Asian:
0.7%
Others:
3.6%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Cape Carteret, NC?
The cost of living in Cape Carteret is slightly above the national average, with a median home value of $420,000 and average rents around $1,350. Utilities and healthcare costs are also a bit higher than average, but state income tax remains steady at 5.25%. Overall, residents enjoy a comfortable lifestyle with manageable expenses for a coastal North Carolina town.
Median House Value:
$420,000
Gross Rent:
$1,350
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$145
Auto Insurance:
$1,085
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,880
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$580
State Taxes:
Low:
5.25%
|
High:
5.25%
Cost Of Living Index:
105.7
Grocery:
99.5
Housing:
112.0
Utilities:
107.6
Transportation:
102.3
Health Care:
108.2
Miscellaneous:
101.7
Crime
Is Cape Carteret, NC a safe place to live?
Cape Carteret boasts a very low violent crime rate of just 85 incidents per 100,000 residents, making it a safe place to live. Property crime is higher but still manageable, with a 1 in 95 chance annually. Residents can feel secure while enjoying the area's relaxed environment.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
85
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,050
Crime Index:
1,135
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 1,180
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 95
Weather
What is the weather like in Cape Carteret, NC year-round?
Cape Carteret features a mild coastal climate with winter lows averaging 37°F and summer highs reaching 88°F. The area receives about 56 inches of rainfall per year and enjoys sunny skies 63% of the time. This pleasant weather is perfect for outdoor activities and year-round enjoyment.
Winter
Min:
37°F
Max:
56°F
Spring
Min:
53°F
Max:
73°F
Summer
Min:
70°F
Max:
88°F
Fall
Min:
56°F
Max:
75°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
56 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
63%
Neighbors
The community has a median household income of $74,800 and a low poverty rate of 6.7%, indicating financial stability among residents. Nearly all adults have a high school diploma, and over 30% hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. With an average commute of 26 minutes and minimal use of public transit, most residents rely on personal vehicles.
Median Income:
$42,000
Household Income:
$74,800
Family Income:
$89,200
Per Capita Income:
$38,200
Income Male:
$46,000
Income Female:
$37,000
Poverty Rate:
6.7%
Non English Speakers:
3.5%
Rent:
$1,350
Unemployment Rate:
3.7%
Public Transport Usage:
0.3%
Commute Time:
26.2 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
95.3%
Bachelors or More:
31.8%
Education
How are the schools in Cape Carteret, NC?
Families in Cape Carteret benefit from well-rated public schools with favorable student-teacher ratios, as well as private school options nearby. Higher education is accessible through Carteret Community College just 12 miles away. The area values education, with high graduation rates and opportunities for lifelong learning.
Public Schools
Name:
White Oak Elementary School
Street:
555 W B McLean Dr
Phone:
252-393-3990
Students:
570
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.2
Name:
Broad Creek Middle School
Street:
2382 NC-24
Phone:
252-393-6483
Students:
690
Student Teacher Ratio:
16.1
Private Schools
Name:
Grace Christian School
Street:
2040 W Main St, Morehead City
Phone:
252-726-7070
Students:
170
Colleges
Name:
Carteret Community College
City:
Morehead City
State:
NC
Distance:
12 miles
Students:
1,600
Healthcare
Cape Carteret residents have convenient access to major hospitals in nearby Morehead City and Jacksonville, ensuring comprehensive medical services and emergency care. The area features a solid physician presence, and over 91% of residents have health insurance. Overall, healthcare availability and coverage are strong for a town of this size.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Carteret Health Care
Address:
3500 Arendell St, Morehead City, NC 28557
Phone:
(252) 499-6000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Onslow Memorial Hospital
Address:
317 Western Blvd, Jacksonville, NC 28546
Phone:
(910) 577-2345
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.8
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.2%
Health Care Index:
69.4
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Cape Carteret, NC?
The housing market in Cape Carteret is robust, with a median home price of $420,000 and an owner-occupancy rate of 86.5%. Home values have appreciated nearly 8% in the past year, signaling a healthy market. Rental options are limited but stable, with vacancies below 5%.
Median Home Price:
$420,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,350
Owner Occupied Rate:
86.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
4.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
7.9%
New Construction Rate:
1.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.6%
DMV Information
Cape Carteret residents are served by the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles, with regional offices in Raleigh and accessible online services. Vehicle registration, licensing, and related needs can be managed efficiently through the DMV’s resources. The DMV provides comprehensive support to drivers and new residents.
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.