Atlantic, NC
Population 541 · North Carolina
About Atlantic, NC
Atlantic is a small community located in North Carolina with a population of 541 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $48,750 per year, which is 35% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 33.8 years is notably younger the US median age of 38.9 years, indicating a younger, often more dynamic population base.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Atlantic features a median home value of $157,000, which is 36% below the national median of $244,900. This positions Atlantic in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $0, 100% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 397 total housing units, 89% are owner-occupied (191 units) and 11% are renter-occupied (23 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Atlantic shows an unemployment rate of 5.5%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 21.6%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Atlantic have an average one-way commute time of 31.5 minutes.
Education & Demographics
13.7% of Atlantic residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The lower educational attainment rate may reflect the area's industry mix, with more employment in trades, manufacturing, or agricultural sectors. The community's demographic composition includes 15.5% White, 0.6% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 3.7% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Atlantic, NC
Compared to national averages, Atlantic has a median household income of $48,750 (35% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $157,000, which is 36% below the national median. Monthly rent at $0 is 100% below the US average of $1,163. Within North Carolina, Atlantic's income is 24% below the state average of $64,468, and home values are 31% below the state median of $228,922.
Why Live in Atlantic, NC?
Atlantic offers affordable housing with a median home value of $157,000, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $0/month.
Potential considerations include median household income ($48,750) that falls below the national average. However, Atlantic’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Atlantic has a population of 541 with a median age of 33.8 years. Compare Atlantic with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in North Carolina.
Similar Cities Near Atlantic
Cities in North Carolina with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Polkville | 542 | $66,607 | $155,600 | Compare |
| Riegelwood | 539 | $0 | $181,800 | Compare |
| Carolina Meadows | 536 | $133,090 | $514,900 | Compare |
| Deep Run | 548 | $46,913 | $65,900 | Compare |
| Potters Hill | 548 | $0 | $93,300 | Compare |
| Lattimore | 549 | $78,958 | $137,000 | Compare |
| Staley | 532 | $61,875 | $133,800 | Compare |
| Minnesott Beach | 529 | $72,344 | $266,200 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in North Carolina
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare Atlantic With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Atlantic
What is the population of Atlantic, NC?
The population of Atlantic, NC is 541 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small community in North Carolina.
What is the median household income in Atlantic?
The median household income in Atlantic, NC is $48,750 per year, which is 35% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Atlantic?
The median home value in Atlantic, NC is $157,000, which is 36% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Atlantic?
The median monthly rent in Atlantic, NC is $0, which is 100% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Atlantic?
The unemployment rate in Atlantic, NC is 5.5%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Atlantic, NC a good place to live?
Atlantic offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 541 and a median age of 33.8, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Atlantic, NC?
13.7% of residents in Atlantic aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The educational profile reflects the area's industry mix and employment landscape.
What is the cost of living in Atlantic?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Atlantic, NC: median home value is $157,000 (36% below national), median rent is $0/month, and median household income is $48,750. The home-value-to-income ratio is 3.2x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Atlantic?
The poverty rate in Atlantic, NC is 21.6%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. Residents and prospective movers should be aware of the economic challenges facing parts of this community.
How diverse is Atlantic, NC?
Atlantic's population is 15.5% White, 0.6% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 3.7% of residents are foreign-born.