Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Duck, NC
Thinking of moving to Duck, NC? With a close-knit population of about 750, this charming coastal town features a relaxed lifestyle, high rates of home ownership, and a median home price of $685,000. Enjoy low crime rates (violent crime is just 63 per 100K), a mild climate with over 60% sunny days, and easy access to top-rated schools in the area. The cost of living is higher than average, but you’ll find strong household incomes, an educated community, and beautiful beaches right at your doorstep.
Demographics - Duck, NC
Duck, NC is a small, close-knit community of around 750 residents, with a median age of 59, reflecting a mature population. The town is predominantly White, with a balanced gender ratio and a density of 590 people per square mile. A small percentage of non-English speakers adds some diversity to this primarily English-speaking coastal town.
Population:
750
Density:
590 per sq mi
Median Age:
59.0
Gender Ratio:
96 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
4.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
96.0%
Black:
1.3%
Asian:
0.7%
Others:
2.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Duck, NC?
The cost of living in Duck is notably higher than the national average, with a cost of living index of 127.1 and a median home value of $685,000. Housing costs are the largest contributor, and monthly expenses like rent and utilities are also above average. Residents benefit from stable state taxes and a high quality of life, but should be prepared for premium prices.
Median House Value:
$685,000
Gross Rent:
$1,850
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$137
Auto Insurance:
$1,150
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$2,420
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$675
State Taxes:
Low:
5.25%
|
High:
5.25%
Cost Of Living Index:
127.1
Grocery:
104.3
Housing:
168.5
Utilities:
108.7
Transportation:
109.5
Health Care:
106.2
Miscellaneous:
101.0
Crime
Is Duck, NC a safe place to live?
Duck enjoys low crime rates, making it a safe place to live or visit, with only 63 violent crimes per 100,000 people. The chance of experiencing property crime is relatively low, at about 1 in 177. This safe environment is a key draw for families and retirees alike.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
63
Property Crimes Per 100k:
565
Crime Index:
628
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 1,587
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 177
Weather
What is the weather like in Duck, NC year-round?
The climate in Duck is mild and pleasant, with warm summers reaching up to 86°F and winters rarely dipping below 36°F. The area receives about 49.5 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunny weather 62% of the year. These conditions make Duck ideal for outdoor activities year-round.
Winter
Min:
36°F
Max:
51°F
Spring
Min:
52°F
Max:
71°F
Summer
Min:
70°F
Max:
86°F
Fall
Min:
56°F
Max:
73°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
49.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
62%
Neighbors
Duck features strong household incomes, with a median household income of $94,200 and low poverty and unemployment rates. The community is well-educated, as nearly 99% have a high school diploma and over half hold a bachelor's degree or higher. Most residents commute about 25 minutes and rely primarily on personal vehicles.
Median Income:
$56,800
Household Income:
$94,200
Family Income:
$112,700
Per Capita Income:
$54,500
Income Male:
$61,000
Income Female:
$43,800
Poverty Rate:
7.4%
Non English Speakers:
4.5%
Rent:
$1,850
Unemployment Rate:
3.7%
Public Transport Usage:
0.8%
Commute Time:
25.2 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
98.6%
Bachelors or More:
56.2%
Education
How are the schools in Duck, NC?
Families in Duck benefit from access to reputable public schools like First Flight Middle and High School, each with favorable student-teacher ratios. Private and charter school options, as well as nearby colleges such as the College of The Albemarle, offer additional educational opportunities. The community places a strong emphasis on educational attainment and lifelong learning.
Public Schools
Name:
First Flight Middle School
Street:
109 Veterans Dr
Phone:
252-441-8888
Students:
660
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.7
Name:
First Flight High School
Street:
100 Veterans Dr
Phone:
252-449-7000
Students:
1,030
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.6
Private Schools
Name:
Heritage Collegiate Leadership Academy
Street:
625 Hastings Ln, Elizabeth City, NC
Phone:
252-331-1111
Students:
210
Colleges
Name:
College of The Albemarle
City:
Manteo
State:
NC
Distance:
26 miles
Students:
2,900
Healthcare
Residents have access to quality healthcare nearby, including The Outer Banks Hospital, which offers emergency services and general care. With 2.2 physicians per 1,000 people and over 91% health insurance coverage, the community is well-served. The area’s healthcare index suggests overall good access and satisfaction.
Major Hospitals
Name:
The Outer Banks Hospital
Address:
4800 S Croatan Hwy, Nags Head, NC 27959
Phone:
(252) 449-4500
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.2
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.4%
Health Care Index:
77.9
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Duck, NC?
Duck’s housing market is defined by high property values, with a median home price of $685,000 and strong appreciation rates. Most homes are owner-occupied, and rental options are available, though vacancy rates are somewhat high due to the vacation market. The area experiences steady new construction and a very low foreclosure rate.
Median Home Price:
$685,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,850
Owner Occupied Rate:
77.6%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
14.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
7.1%
New Construction Rate:
3.4%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Residents of Duck are served by the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles, headquartered in Raleigh. The DMV offers comprehensive services online and by phone, making it convenient to handle licensing and vehicle registration. Statewide resources are easily accessible for all transportation needs.
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.