Nags Head, NC
Population 3,164 · North Carolina
About Nags Head, NC
Nags Head is a small town located in North Carolina with a population of 3,164 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $87,619 per year, which is 17% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 59.1 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 Nags Head features a median home value of $451,100, which is 84% above the national median of $244,900. This places Nags Head in a higher-cost housing market, where property demand often outpaces supply. Median monthly rent is $1,005, 14% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 5,214 total housing units, 78% are owner-occupied (1,262 units) and 22% are renter-occupied (364 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Nags Head shows an unemployment rate of 2.0%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 2.6%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Nags Head have an average one-way commute time of 23.7 minutes.
Education & Demographics
51.7% of Nags Head residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This significantly higher educational attainment rate often correlates with access to knowledge-economy jobs and higher household incomes. The community's demographic composition includes 1.3% White, 0.8% Hispanic or Latino, 1.2% Black or African American, and 1.0% Asian residents, with 1.8% of the population being foreign-born.
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.
Compare Nags Head With Other Cities
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 US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small town in North Carolina.
What is the median household income in Nags Head?
The median household income in Nags Head, NC is $87,619 per year, which is 17% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Nags Head?
The median home value in Nags Head, NC is $451,100, which is 84% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Nags Head?
The median monthly rent in Nags Head, NC is $1,005, which is 14% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Nags Head?
The unemployment rate in Nags Head, NC is 2.0%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Nags Head, NC a good place to live?
Nags Head offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and a strong job market. With a population of 3,164 and a median age of 59.1, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Nags Head, NC?
51.7% of residents in Nags Head aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This above-average educational attainment often reflects a knowledge-based local economy.
What is the cost of living in Nags Head?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Nags Head, NC: median home value is $451,100 (84% above national), median rent is $1,005/month, and median household income is $87,619. The home-value-to-income ratio is 5.1x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in Nags Head?
The poverty rate in Nags Head, NC is 2.6%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Nags Head, NC?
Nags Head's population is 1.3% White, 0.8% Hispanic or Latino, 1.2% Black or African American, 1.0% Asian, and 1.1% two or more races. 1.8% of residents are foreign-born.