Atlantic Beach City Demographics

Atlantic Beach, located in Carteret County, NC, has a population of approximately 1,601 (2022 estimates). The median age is around 57 years, indicating a mature community. The gender split is fairly balanced, with about 50.3% female and 49.7% male. Racially, the population is predominantly White (approximately 95%), with small percentages of African American (1%), Asian (1%), and Hispanic/Latino (2%). Other races collectively make up less than 1%. Atlantic Beach is primarily an older, White, and relatively small coastal city.

Atlantic Beach City Housing

Atlantic Beach, Carteret County, NC, offers a blend of single-family homes, condos, and vacation rentals. As of early 2024, the median home value is about $525,000, with median rents around $1,800/month. About 55% of homes are owner-occupied, while 45% are rentals. Popular neighborhoods include Atlantic Beach Town and Pine Knoll Shores. The property tax rate is roughly $0.15 per $100 of assessed value, among the lowest in North Carolina, making the area attractive for retirees, second-home buyers, and vacation property investors. Market trends show steady value appreciation due to high coastal demand.

Education in Atlantic Beach City

Atlantic Beach, Carteret County, NC, is served by Carteret County Public Schools, with no schools directly in the city—students attend schools in nearby Morehead City, such as West Carteret High School (score: 7/10, per GreatSchools). The county has 16 public schools, and 92% of adults have a high school diploma; 34% hold a bachelor’s or higher. School safety is rated above average, with robust programs in STEM and arts. Adult education is available through Carteret Community College nearby, which enrolls over 2,000 students in continuing education and degree programs.

Transportation in Atlantic Beach City

Atlantic Beach, Carteret County, NC, is primarily car-dependent, with about 88% of residents commuting by personal vehicle and less than 0.5% using public transit, as regional bus service is limited. The average one-way commute time is approximately 20 minutes, shorter than the U.S. average. Most households (over 95%) own at least one vehicle. Transportation infrastructure centers on US-70 and the Atlantic Beach Causeway, connecting to Morehead City, a major employment hub alongside hospitality and marine industries. Alternative transportation options like cycling and walking see minimal use due to limited infrastructure.

Atlantic Beach City Healthcare

Atlantic Beach, Carteret County, NC, lacks hospitals within city limits; residents typically use Carteret Health Care, a 135-bed hospital in nearby Morehead City. A few local clinics offer primary and urgent care. Approximately 90% of Carteret County adults have health insurance (2022, US Census). The population skews older (median age 57.5), influencing prevalent health issues like heart disease, diabetes, and hypertension. The county averages 122 primary care physicians per 100,000 residents, below the national average. Access to specialized care often requires travel; transportation can be a barrier for some patients.

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