Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Elizabeth City, NC
Thinking about a move to Elizabeth City, NC? With a population of 18,000, Elizabeth City offers affordable living, with median home prices around $182,000 and average rents near $950. Residents enjoy a mild coastal climate, short average commutes of 22 minutes, and local higher education options. While the cost of living is low, crime rates are higher than national averages, but the city is known for its riverfront charm and friendly community vibe. Explore more below to see if Elizabeth City is the right fit for your next home.
Demographics - Elizabeth City, NC
Demographics - Elizabeth City, NC
Elizabeth City is home to about 18,000 residents, with a median age of 34.5, reflecting a youthful and diverse population. Over half of the community identifies as Black, while about 39% are White, and 6.5% of residents speak a language other than English at home. The city’s moderate population density creates a welcoming small-town atmosphere.
Population:
18,000
Density:
1,200 per sq mi
Median Age:
34.5
Gender Ratio:
87 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
6.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
39.2%
Black:
51.5%
Asian:
1.2%
Others:
8.1%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Elizabeth City, NC?
Living in Elizabeth City is notably affordable, with a median home value of $182,000 and average rents around $950 per month. The overall cost of living index is well below the national average, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious families. Utilities and groceries are reasonably priced, helping residents manage everyday expenses with ease.
Median House Value:
$182,000
Gross Rent:
$950
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$130
Auto Insurance:
$1,020
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,210
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$420
State Taxes:
Low:
4.75%
|
High:
4.75%
Cost Of Living Index:
84.5
Grocery:
94.0
Housing:
67.0
Utilities:
102.5
Transportation:
82.0
Health Care:
94.0
Miscellaneous:
82.5
Crime
Is Elizabeth City, NC a safe place to live?
Elizabeth City experiences higher crime rates than many U.S. cities, with property crime being more prevalent than violent crime. The chance of experiencing a property crime is about 1 in 25, while violent crime risk is roughly 1 in 130. While these statistics signal caution, many residents find that active community engagement and local policing help foster a sense of safety.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
767
Property Crimes Per 100k:
3,950
Crime Index:
4,717
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 130
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 25
Weather
What is the weather like in Elizabeth City, NC year-round?
Elizabeth City enjoys a mild coastal climate, with warm summers peaking near 89°F and winters rarely dipping below 33°F. The area receives about 48 inches of rainfall annually and boasts around 62% sunny days, offering plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities year-round. Spring and fall bring pleasant temperatures, making the city inviting for those who appreciate moderate weather.
Winter
Min:
33°F
Max:
50°F
Spring
Min:
48°F
Max:
72°F
Summer
Min:
70°F
Max:
89°F
Fall
Min:
50°F
Max:
73°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
48 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
62%
Neighbors
Local households in Elizabeth City typically earn a median income of about $45,300, with a family income closer to $53,800. The community is characterized by a relatively high poverty rate at 22.5%, but neighbors are known for their friendliness and close-knit spirit. Most residents commute about 22 minutes to work, and educational attainment is solid, with 83.8% having at least a high school diploma.
Median Income:
$30,400
Household Income:
$45,300
Family Income:
$53,800
Per Capita Income:
$21,000
Income Male:
$38,000
Income Female:
$33,500
Poverty Rate:
22.5%
Non English Speakers:
6.5%
Rent:
$950
Unemployment Rate:
7.4%
Public Transport Usage:
0.8%
Commute Time:
21.7 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
83.8%
Bachelors or More:
17.2%
Education
How are the schools in Elizabeth City, NC?
Elizabeth City is served by both public and private schools, with manageable class sizes and dedicated teachers. The city is also home to higher education institutions such as Elizabeth City State University and College of The Albemarle, each enrolling over 2,000 students. Families and students benefit from a range of educational opportunities, from elementary through college.
Public Schools
Name:
Elizabeth City Middle School
Street:
1066 North Road St
Phone:
252-335-2973
Students:
620
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.1
Name:
J.C. Sawyer Elementary School
Street:
1007 Parkview Dr
Phone:
252-335-4305
Students:
520
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.2
Private Schools
Name:
Albemarle School
Street:
1210 US Hwy 17 S
Phone:
252-338-0883
Students:
340
Colleges
Name:
Elizabeth City State University
City:
Elizabeth City
State:
NC
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
2,100
Name:
College of The Albemarle
City:
Elizabeth City
State:
NC
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
2,200
Healthcare
Elizabeth City offers accessible healthcare, anchored by Sentara Albemarle Medical Center, which provides general and emergency services. With about 1.3 physicians per 1,000 residents and over 85% of people insured, locals have reliable options for medical care. The city’s healthcare index suggests services are generally favorable for a community of its size.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Sentara Albemarle Medical Center
Address:
1144 N Road St, Elizabeth City, NC 27909
Phone:
(252) 335-0531
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.3
Health Insurance Coverage:
85.1%
Health Care Index:
69.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Elizabeth City, NC?
The housing market in Elizabeth City is affordable, with a median home price of $182,000 and average rent for a two-bedroom apartment around $950. Homeownership rates are modest at 46.4%, and vacancy rates are relatively low, reflecting stable demand. Recent home appreciation indicates a growing interest in the local real estate market.
Median Home Price:
$182,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$950
Owner Occupied Rate:
46.4%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
8.6%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
6.3%
New Construction Rate:
2.0%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.8%
DMV Information
Residents can take care of driver’s licenses and vehicle registration at the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles office conveniently located within the city. The office offers essential motor vehicle services and information both in person and through the state DMV website. This makes handling transportation needs straightforward for newcomers and long-term residents alike.
State:
North Carolina
Department:
North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles
Address:
1164 US Highway 17 S, Elizabeth City, NC 27909
Phone:
1-919-715-7000
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.