Beaufort Public RecordsNorth Carolina

As of 2022, Beaufort city in Carteret County, NC, had a population of approximately 4,700. The median age is about 50 years, with 53% female and 47% male residents. The racial and ethnic makeup is predominantly White (about 79%), African American (15%), and smaller percentages of Hispanic/Latino (3%), Asian (1%), and other groups. The city is known for its historic charm and a relatively older population compared to state averages.

Beaufort, Carteret County, NC, features a median home value around $470,000 as of 2024, with homeownership comprising about 60% of residences. Median rent stands at approximately $1,400/month. Housing types range from historic waterfront cottages in Old Town to modern developments near Beaufort East Village. Popular neighborhoods include Historic Downtown, Front Street, and Pivers Island. The housing market has seen annual appreciation rates near 8% in recent years. Property taxes in Carteret County are roughly 0.66%, meaning annual taxes on a $470,000 home average around $3,100. Rentals and vacation properties are also prominent due to tourism.

Beaufort, Carteret County, NC, offers several educational options, including Beaufort Elementary and East Carteret High School (grades 9-12, graduation rate ~90%, average SAT score ~1080). The city has no universities, but 28% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. School safety ratings are above average, with minimal reported incidents. Adult education and vocational programs are available through Carteret Community College nearby. The district provides advanced placement (AP), STEM, and career readiness courses, supporting both academic achievement and workforce preparation.

Beaufort, Carteret County, NC, relies predominantly on personal vehicles for commuting, with about 83% of workers driving alone and an average household vehicle ownership of 2 cars. Public transit usage is minimal, with less than 1% of commuters using available services like CARTS. The average commute time is roughly 23 minutes. Transportation infrastructure includes US Highway 70 and local streets, facilitating access to major employment hubs such as local government, healthcare, and tourism-related businesses. Walking and biking are common for downtown workers due to Beaufort’s compact layout and pedestrian-friendly environment.

Beaufort, Carteret County, NC, is served primarily by Carteret Health Care—a 135-bed hospital in nearby Morehead City—and several local clinics, including Beaufort Community Primary Care. The county has approximately 1.6 physicians per 1,000 residents, and around 86% of residents have health insurance. The population skews older, with 28% aged 65+, contributing to prevalent chronic issues like heart disease, diabetes, and hypertension. Primary care is accessible, but some rural residents face barriers. Medicaid enrollment in Carteret County is about 18%. Beaufort’s population is 74% White, 20% Black, with significant seasonal variation due to tourism.