Nags Head, NC
Population 3,164 · North Carolina
About Nags Head, NC
Nags Head is a small community in North Carolina with a population of 3,164 residents. The median household income is $87,619 per year, which is above the national average. The median age in Nags Head is 59.1 years.
Housing in Nags Head has a median home value of $451,100 and median monthly rent of $1,005. Of the 5,214 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 1,262 owner-occupied and 364 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Nags Head is 2.0% and the poverty rate is 2.6%. 51.7% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 23.7 minutes.
Cost of Living in Nags Head, NC
Compared to national averages, Nags Head has a median household income of $87,619 (17% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $451,100, which is 84% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,005 is 14% below the US average of $1,163. Within North Carolina, Nags Head's income is 36% above the state average of $64,468, and home values are 97% above the state median of $228,922.
Why Live in Nags Head, NC?
Nags Head offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $87,619, well above the national average, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $1,005/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 2.0%. Additionally, the city features a well-educated community where 51.7% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, and a low poverty rate of 2.6%, better than the national average, and short commute times averaging just 23.7 minutes.
Potential considerations include a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $451,100. However, Nags Head’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Nags Head has a population of 3,164 with a median age of 59.1 years. Compare Nags Head with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in North Carolina.
Similar Cities Near Nags Head
Cities in North Carolina with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bermuda Run | 3,166 | $66,800 | $309,800 | Compare |
| East Rockingham | 3,177 | $33,206 | $102,700 | Compare |
| Green Level | 3,179 | $54,020 | $164,500 | Compare |
| Belville | 3,183 | $86,875 | $257,100 | Compare |
| Louisburg | 3,128 | $31,827 | $217,400 | Compare |
| Southern Shores | 3,119 | $116,859 | $621,100 | Compare |
| Norwood | 3,110 | $57,953 | $178,900 | Compare |
| Red Springs | 3,107 | $19,752 | $85,400 | 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 Nags Head
What is the population of Nags Head, NC?
The population of Nags Head, NC is 3,164 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Nags Head?
The median household income in Nags Head, NC is $87,619 per year.
What is the median home value in Nags Head?
The median home value in Nags Head, NC is $451,100.
What is the average rent in Nags Head?
The median monthly rent in Nags Head, NC is $1,005.
What is the unemployment rate in Nags Head?
The unemployment rate in Nags Head, NC is 2.0%.