Emerald Isle, NC
Population 3,915 · North Carolina
About Emerald Isle, NC
Emerald Isle is a small community in North Carolina with a population of 3,915 residents. The median household income is $89,432 per year, which is above the national average. The median age in Emerald Isle is 58.7 years.
Housing in Emerald Isle has a median home value of $563,600 and median monthly rent of $1,688. Of the 6,802 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 1,511 owner-occupied and 308 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Emerald Isle is 1.4% and the poverty rate is 3.9%. 52.0% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 26.7 minutes.
How Emerald Isle Ranks in North Carolina
Cost of Living in Emerald Isle, NC
Compared to national averages, Emerald Isle has a median household income of $89,432 (19% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $563,600, which is 130% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,688 is 45% above the US average of $1,163. Within North Carolina, Emerald Isle's income is 39% above the state average of $64,468, and home values are 146% above the state median of $228,922.
Why Live in Emerald Isle, NC?
Emerald Isle offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $89,432, well above the national average, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 1.4%, and a well-educated community where 52.0% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Additionally, the city features a low poverty rate of 3.9%, better than the national average.
Potential considerations include a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $563,600. However, Emerald Isle’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Emerald Isle has a population of 3,915 with a median age of 58.7 years. Compare Emerald Isle with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in North Carolina.
Similar Cities Near Emerald Isle
Cities in North Carolina with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bethlehem | 3,928 | $78,963 | $290,600 | Compare |
| Swansboro | 3,887 | $112,382 | $356,900 | Compare |
| Skippers Corner | 3,834 | $67,469 | $249,200 | Compare |
| Dana | 3,824 | $55,801 | $223,400 | Compare |
| Stanley | 4,014 | $71,333 | $229,000 | Compare |
| Troutman | 3,813 | $76,389 | $349,100 | Compare |
| Rockfish | 3,807 | $63,046 | $191,000 | Compare |
| Elkin | 4,025 | $60,434 | $187,200 | 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.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Emerald Isle
What is the population of Emerald Isle, NC?
The population of Emerald Isle, NC is 3,915 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Emerald Isle?
The median household income in Emerald Isle, NC is $89,432 per year.
What is the median home value in Emerald Isle?
The median home value in Emerald Isle, NC is $563,600.
What is the average rent in Emerald Isle?
The median monthly rent in Emerald Isle, NC is $1,688.
What is the unemployment rate in Emerald Isle?
The unemployment rate in Emerald Isle, NC is 1.4%.