Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Sunset Beach, NC
Considering a move to Sunset Beach, NC? This quaint coastal town of about 4,000 residents offers a relaxed lifestyle with a median home price of $440,000 and average 2-bedroom rent around $1,350. With low violent crime (92 per 100k), short average commutes (about 22 minutes), and a strong owner-occupied housing rate, Sunset Beach is ideal for those seeking safety and serenity by the sea. The community boasts beautiful weather with 64% sunny days, plus access to quality healthcare and highly rated local schools.
Demographics - Sunset Beach, NC
Demographics - Sunset Beach, NC
Sunset Beach is a small, close-knit community of around 4,000 residents, known for its predominantly older population with a median age of 66.2 years. The city has a strong majority of White residents (93%) and a low proportion of non-English speakers, creating a predominantly English-speaking environment. Its moderate population density offers a peaceful and spacious setting, ideal for retirees and those seeking a tranquil coastal lifestyle.
Population:
4,000
Density:
560 per sq mi
Median Age:
66.2
Gender Ratio:
90 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
3.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
93.0%
Black:
4.0%
Asian:
1.0%
Others:
2.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Sunset Beach, NC?
Living in Sunset Beach comes with a slightly above-average cost of living, reflected in a median home value of $440,000 and typical monthly rent of $1,350 for a two-bedroom unit. Everyday expenses such as groceries and utilities are close to the national average, while housing costs are notably higher, making it an attractive location for those who value coastal living and home ownership. North Carolina’s moderate state taxes and reasonable utility rates further support a comfortable lifestyle.
Median House Value:
$440,000
Gross Rent:
$1,350
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,020
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,800
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$590
State Taxes:
Low:
4.75%
|
High:
5.25%
Cost Of Living Index:
105.9
Grocery:
99.8
Housing:
113.0
Utilities:
102.5
Transportation:
98.0
Health Care:
101.2
Miscellaneous:
97.5
Crime
Is Sunset Beach, NC a safe place to live?
Sunset Beach boasts a very low crime rate, with only 92 violent crimes per 100,000 residents and a 1 in 1,085 chance of experiencing violent crime. Property crime is also lower than in many areas, contributing to the city’s reputation as a safe and secure place to live. These low crime levels make Sunset Beach especially appealing for families and retirees seeking peace of mind.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
92
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,010
Crime Index:
1,102
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 1,085
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 99
Weather
What is the weather like in Sunset Beach, NC year-round?
Residents enjoy a mild coastal climate, with winter temperatures ranging from 37°F to 58°F and warm, pleasant summers peaking at 88°F. Sunset Beach experiences 64% sunny days annually and receives about 54 inches of rainfall, creating an inviting environment for year-round outdoor activities. The weather is ideal for those who appreciate gentle winters and plenty of sunshine.
Winter
Min:
37°F
Max:
58°F
Spring
Min:
54°F
Max:
75°F
Summer
Min:
71°F
Max:
88°F
Fall
Min:
56°F
Max:
78°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
54.0 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
64%
Neighbors
The community features a stable economic profile, with a median household income of $61,800 and a low unemployment rate of 4%. Most residents have at least a high school education (95%) and commute an average of 22 minutes, reflecting a relaxed, small-town pace. The area has a modest poverty rate and a high rate of homeownership, making it a friendly and settled place to call home.
Median Income:
$34,000
Household Income:
$61,800
Family Income:
$74,200
Per Capita Income:
$42,800
Income Male:
$48,000
Income Female:
$36,000
Poverty Rate:
8.5%
Non English Speakers:
3.5%
Rent:
$1,350
Unemployment Rate:
4.0%
Public Transport Usage:
0.4%
Commute Time:
21.7 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
95.3%
Bachelors or More:
37.8%
Education
How are the schools in Sunset Beach, NC?
Families in Sunset Beach have access to well-rated local public schools, such as Jessie Mae Monroe Elementary and Shallotte Middle School, with favorable student-teacher ratios. Private education is also available at Brunswick Christian Academy, and Brunswick Community College is located just 18 miles away for higher education opportunities. The city’s educational resources support learners of all ages and backgrounds.
Public Schools
Name:
Jessie Mae Monroe Elementary School
Street:
250 Pea Landing Rd NW, Ash, NC 28420
Phone:
910-287-4014
Students:
570
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.4
Name:
Shallotte Middle School
Street:
225 Village Rd SW, Shallotte, NC 28470
Phone:
910-754-6882
Students:
700
Student Teacher Ratio:
16.1
Private Schools
Name:
Brunswick Christian Academy
Street:
5120 Ocean Hwy W, Shallotte, NC 28470
Phone:
910-754-9637
Students:
180
Colleges
Name:
Brunswick Community College
City:
Bolivia
State:
NC
Distance:
18 miles
Students:
1,800
Healthcare
Sunset Beach residents benefit from access to quality healthcare, including nearby general and surgical hospitals with emergency services. The city offers a good physician-to-resident ratio (2.2 per 1,000), and over 91% of residents have health insurance coverage. The area’s healthcare infrastructure ensures reliable medical support for families and retirees alike.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Novant Health Brunswick Medical Center
Address:
240 Hospital Dr NE, Bolivia, NC 28422
Phone:
(910) 721-1000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
McLeod Seacoast Hospital
Address:
4000 Hwy 9 E, Little River, SC 29566
Phone:
(843) 390-8100
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.2
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.6%
Health Care Index:
76.1
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Sunset Beach, NC?
The local housing market is robust, with a median home price of $440,000 and a high owner-occupied rate of 84.4%. Home values have appreciated by 7.2% over the past year, and rental options remain available, with average two-bedroom rents at $1,350. Low foreclosure and vacancy rates reflect a healthy and stable real estate environment.
Median Home Price:
$440,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,350
Owner Occupied Rate:
84.4%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
7.2%
New Construction Rate:
2.3%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Residents of Sunset Beach are served by the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles located in nearby Shallotte, offering comprehensive DMV services. The convenient location and accessible contact information make it easy for newcomers to handle licensing and vehicle registration needs. The DMV’s website provides helpful resources for additional information.
State:
North Carolina
Department:
North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles
Address:
5298 Main Street, Shallotte, NC 28470
Phone:
(910) 754-5114
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.