Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Carolina Beach, NC
Thinking of relocating to Carolina Beach, NC? This charming coastal town of about 6,700 residents offers a laid-back lifestyle, with median home prices around $520,000 and rents near $1,650. You'll enjoy mild winters, 67% sunny days, and easy commutes averaging 25 minutes. The area boasts a strong educational attainment rate (41.5% with a bachelor's or higher), access to top Wilmington hospitals, and the vibrant beach community atmosphere. While property crime rates are higher than the national average, many find the seaside living and friendly vibe well worth it—explore more details below!
Demographics - Carolina Beach, NC
Demographics - Carolina Beach, NC
Carolina Beach is a small, close-knit coastal community of about 6,700 people, with a median age nearing 46 years, reflecting a mature and settled population. The area is predominantly White, with other ethnic groups making up less than 8% of residents, and just over 5% are non-English speakers, contributing to a friendly, familiar atmosphere. Population density is moderate, offering a relaxed pace without feeling crowded.
Population:
6,700
Density:
2,350 per sq mi
Median Age:
45.8
Gender Ratio:
98 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
5.4%

Ethnic Composition
White:
92.1%
Black:
2.8%
Asian:
1.0%
Others:
4.1%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Carolina Beach, NC?
Living in Carolina Beach typically comes with a higher-than-average cost of living, driven mainly by housing, with median home values around $520,000 and rents about $1,650 per month. Groceries and utilities are moderately priced, while state income tax remains a flat and manageable 4.75%. Residents enjoy a comfortable lifestyle with expenses reflecting the city's popular beachside appeal.
Median House Value:
$520,000
Gross Rent:
$1,650
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$145
Auto Insurance:
$1,340
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$2,370
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$705
State Taxes:
Low:
4.75%
|
High:
4.75%
Cost Of Living Index:
114.0
Grocery:
101.4
Housing:
129.7
Utilities:
109.2
Transportation:
98.1
Health Care:
104.6
Miscellaneous:
101.3
Crime
Is Carolina Beach, NC a safe place to live?
Carolina Beach experiences a property crime rate higher than the national average, with a 1 in 41 chance, while violent crime is relatively rare at 1 in 410. The overall crime index suggests residents should stay mindful of property security but can generally feel safe in the community. Many residents find the trade-off for coastal living and community charm worthwhile.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
244
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,458
Crime Index:
2,702
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 410
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 41
Weather
What is the weather like in Carolina Beach, NC year-round?
Residents enjoy a mild coastal climate with winter lows around 37°F and summer highs reaching 88°F, making outdoor activities accessible year-round. The city sees 67% sunny days and receives about 60 inches of rainfall annually, supporting a lush, vibrant environment. The pleasant weather is a major draw for those seeking an active, beach-oriented lifestyle.

Winter
Min:
37°F
Max:
58°F

Spring
Min:
54°F
Max:
73°F

Summer
Min:
74°F
Max:
88°F

Fall
Min:
57°F
Max:
77°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
60.2 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
67%
Neighbors
Carolina Beach households have a median income of $74,300, and about 41.5% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, reflecting a well-educated and stable population. The local unemployment rate is low at 3.4%, and typical commutes are under 25 minutes, making it convenient for both work and leisure. With a poverty rate just over 10%, the area offers a comfortable standard of living for most residents.
Median Income:
$44,200
Household Income:
$74,300
Family Income:
$88,900
Per Capita Income:
$46,800
Income Male:
$49,500
Income Female:
$41,400
Poverty Rate:
10.9%
Non English Speakers:
5.4%
Rent:
$1,650
Unemployment Rate:
3.4%
Public Transport Usage:
0.5%
Commute Time:
24.9 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
95.3%
Bachelors or More:
41.5%
Education
How are the schools in Carolina Beach, NC?
Carolina Beach offers strong educational opportunities, including a well-rated local elementary school and access to private schooling nearby. For higher education, residents benefit from proximity to the University of North Carolina Wilmington and Cape Fear Community College, both just a short drive away. The community is well-educated, with over 41% of adults holding at least a bachelor’s degree.

Public Schools
Name:
Carolina Beach Elementary School
Street:
400 S 4th St
Phone:
910-458-4340
Students:
390
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.1

Private Schools
Name:
Wilmington Christian Academy
Street:
1401 N College Rd, Wilmington
Phone:
910-791-4240
Students:
900

Colleges
Name:
University of North Carolina Wilmington
City:
Wilmington
State:
NC
Distance:
14 miles
Students:
18,000
Name:
Cape Fear Community College
City:
Wilmington
State:
NC
Distance:
12 miles
Students:
8,400
Healthcare
Residents have access to quality medical care, including the nearby Novant Health New Hanover Regional Medical Center in Wilmington, which provides comprehensive emergency and surgical services. The area features about 2.3 physicians per 1,000 residents and nearly 89% of people are covered by health insurance, ensuring robust healthcare support. The healthcare index indicates services are accessible and reliable for families and retirees alike.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Novant Health New Hanover Regional Medical Center
Address:
2131 S 17th St, Wilmington, NC 28401
Phone:
(910) 667-7000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.3
Health Insurance Coverage:
88.7%
Health Care Index:
78.1
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Carolina Beach, NC?
The Carolina Beach housing market is strong, with median home prices around $520,000 and a healthy home appreciation rate of 5% in the past year. About 65% of homes are owner-occupied, and rental vacancies are moderate, offering both buyers and renters good options. The market's stability and ongoing new construction make it attractive for those seeking coastal property investments or a permanent seaside home.
Median Home Price:
$520,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,650
Owner Occupied Rate:
65.2%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
8.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
5.0%
New Construction Rate:
2.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
DMV services for Carolina Beach residents are provided by the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles, with the main office located in Raleigh and accessible online. The department offers standard vehicle registration, licensing, and title services for new and current residents. For more information or to schedule appointments, residents can visit the official website or call the listed phone number.
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.