Cape Carteret, NC
Population 2,598 · North Carolina
About Cape Carteret, NC
Cape Carteret is a small town located in North Carolina with a population of 2,598 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $75,313 per year, which is 0% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 47.6 years is notably older the US median age of 38.9 years, suggesting a more established community with a higher proportion of long-term residents.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Cape Carteret features a median home value of $347,500, which is 42% above the national median of $244,900. This positions Cape Carteret in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,755, 51% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 1,284 total housing units, 81% are owner-occupied (900 units) and 19% are renter-occupied (217 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Cape Carteret shows an unemployment rate of 2.3%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 7.3%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Cape Carteret have an average one-way commute time of 26.8 minutes.
Education & Demographics
31.9% of Cape Carteret residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This is in line with national trends in educational attainment. The community's demographic composition includes 1.9% White, 0.4% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 1.3% Asian residents, with 1.0% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Cape Carteret, NC
Compared to national averages, Cape Carteret has a median household income of $75,313 (0% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $347,500, which is 42% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,755 is 51% above the US average of $1,163. Within North Carolina, Cape Carteret's income is 17% above the state average of $64,468, and home values are 52% above the state median of $228,922.
Why Live in Cape Carteret, NC?
Cape Carteret offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $75,313, well above the national average, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 2.3%, and a low poverty rate of 7.3%, better than the national average.
Cape Carteret has a population of 2,598 with a median age of 47.6 years. Compare Cape Carteret with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in North Carolina.
Similar Cities Near Cape Carteret
Cities in North Carolina with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sylva | 2,600 | $41,926 | $195,500 | Compare |
| Marshville | 2,586 | $60,784 | $147,100 | Compare |
| Haw River | 2,581 | $67,366 | $142,200 | Compare |
| Youngsville | 2,581 | $61,813 | $404,500 | Compare |
| St. Pauls | 2,628 | $33,667 | $118,300 | Compare |
| Tobaccoville | 2,632 | $78,591 | $227,200 | Compare |
| Franklinton | 2,562 | $64,053 | $195,800 | Compare |
| Sneads Ferry | 2,556 | $59,783 | $233,500 | 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 Cape Carteret With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Cape Carteret
What is the population of Cape Carteret, NC?
The population of Cape Carteret, NC is 2,598 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small town in North Carolina.
What is the median household income in Cape Carteret?
The median household income in Cape Carteret, NC is $75,313 per year, which is 0% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Cape Carteret?
The median home value in Cape Carteret, NC is $347,500, which is 42% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Cape Carteret?
The median monthly rent in Cape Carteret, NC is $1,755, which is 51% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Cape Carteret?
The unemployment rate in Cape Carteret, NC is 2.3%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Cape Carteret, NC a good place to live?
Cape Carteret offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and a strong job market. With a population of 2,598 and a median age of 47.6, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Cape Carteret, NC?
31.9% of residents in Cape Carteret 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 Cape Carteret?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Cape Carteret, NC: median home value is $347,500 (42% above national), median rent is $1,755/month, and median household income is $75,313. The home-value-to-income ratio is 4.6x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in Cape Carteret?
The poverty rate in Cape Carteret, NC is 7.3%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Cape Carteret, NC?
Cape Carteret's population is 1.9% White, 0.4% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 1.3% Asian, and 0.3% two or more races. 1.0% of residents are foreign-born.