Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Surf City, NC
Thinking about a move to Surf City, NC? This seaside community of 3,110 offers a peaceful, sunny lifestyle with 66% sunny days and mild winters. Median home prices are around $526,000, with rents averaging $1,750, reflecting its coastal appeal. Enjoy low violent crime rates (152 per 100K), short commutes (25 minutes), and access to nearby quality schools and healthcare. If you're seeking a laid-back atmosphere with beautiful beaches and a strong sense of community, Surf City is a great place to call home.
Demographics - Surf City, NC
Demographics - Surf City, NC
Surf City is a small coastal community with a population of 3,110, where the median age is 52, reflecting a mature and relaxed atmosphere. The area is predominantly White (over 94%), and has a balanced gender ratio and a low percentage of non-English speakers, making it welcoming and easy to settle in for new residents.
Population:
3,110
Density:
1,260 per sq mi
Median Age:
52.1
Gender Ratio:
96 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
4.1%
Ethnic Composition
White:
94.2%
Black:
1.6%
Asian:
0.7%
Others:
3.5%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Surf City, NC?
Living in Surf City comes with a cost of living index slightly above the national average at 109.7, mainly due to higher housing expenses. Median home values are around $526,000 and average rents are $1,750, reflecting the city’s desirable seaside location.
Median House Value:
$526,000
Gross Rent:
$1,750
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$141
Auto Insurance:
$1,120
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$2,220
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$725
State Taxes:
Low:
5.25%
|
High:
5.25%
Cost Of Living Index:
109.7
Grocery:
104.1
Housing:
122.0
Utilities:
108.6
Transportation:
104.8
Health Care:
106.7
Miscellaneous:
101.5
Crime
Is Surf City, NC a safe place to live?
Surf City is considered a safe place to live, with low violent crime rates at 152 incidents per 100,000 residents and property crime chances of 1 in 94. Most residents enjoy peace of mind and a secure environment, contributing to the town’s family-friendly appeal.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
152
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,067
Crime Index:
1,219
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 658
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 94
Weather
What is the weather like in Surf City, NC year-round?
Surf City enjoys a mild coastal climate with winter lows around 36°F and summer highs near 88°F, making outdoor activities pleasant year-round. The town receives about 57 inches of rainfall annually and boasts sunny weather 66% of the time, ideal for beach lovers.
Winter
Min:
36°F
Max:
58°F
Spring
Min:
54°F
Max:
75°F
Summer
Min:
72°F
Max:
88°F
Fall
Min:
55°F
Max:
77°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
56.9 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
66%
Neighbors
Residents of Surf City benefit from a strong sense of community, with a median household income of $79,900 and a low poverty rate of 7.3%. High educational attainment and an average commute of 25 minutes make it an attractive place for families and professionals alike.
Median Income:
$41,800
Household Income:
$79,900
Family Income:
$90,200
Per Capita Income:
$45,100
Income Male:
$52,800
Income Female:
$40,700
Poverty Rate:
7.3%
Non English Speakers:
5.1%
Rent:
$1,750
Unemployment Rate:
3.6%
Public Transport Usage:
0.7%
Commute Time:
25.2 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
93.8%
Bachelors or More:
40.1%
Education
How are the schools in Surf City, NC?
Surf City offers access to quality public and private schools, with favorable student-teacher ratios and strong enrollment. Nearby higher education options include Cape Fear Community College and the University of North Carolina Wilmington, both less than 35 miles away.
Public Schools
Name:
Topsail Elementary School
Street:
17385 US Hwy 17 N
Phone:
910-270-1977
Students:
850
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.1
Name:
Topsail Middle School
Street:
17445 US Hwy 17 N
Phone:
910-270-2612
Students:
1,000
Student Teacher Ratio:
16.4
Private Schools
Name:
Faith Harbor Preschool
Street:
14201 NC-50
Phone:
910-328-4422
Students:
60
Colleges
Name:
Cape Fear Community College
City:
Wilmington
State:
NC
Distance:
29 miles
Students:
23,000
Name:
University of North Carolina Wilmington
City:
Wilmington
State:
NC
Distance:
32 miles
Students:
17,500
Healthcare
Surf City residents have convenient access to quality healthcare, with major hospitals such as Novant Health Pender Medical Center and Onslow Memorial Hospital nearby. About 90% of the population is insured, and the area benefits from nearly two physicians per 1,000 residents.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Novant Health Pender Medical Center
Address:
507 E Fremont St, Burgaw, NC 28425
Phone:
(910) 259-5451
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:
1.9
Health Insurance Coverage:
89.7%
Health Care Index:
78.3
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Surf City, NC?
The housing market in Surf City is competitive, with a median home price of $526,000 and a high owner-occupancy rate of over 75%. Home values have appreciated by 6.5% in the past year, and the rental market remains stable with a 10% vacancy rate.
Median Home Price:
$526,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,750
Owner Occupied Rate:
75.4%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
10.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
6.5%
New Construction Rate:
2.7%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
The North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles serves Surf City residents, offering full driver and vehicle services through its Raleigh office and website. Local residents can access information, renewals, and appointments conveniently online or by phone.
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.